Acer 5570Z, ASPIRE 3680 User Manual

Aspire 5580/5570/3680/5570Z

Series

User's Guide

Copyright © 2006. Acer Incorporated.
All Rights Reserved.

Aspire 5580/5570/3680/5570Z Series User's Guide
Original Issue: 11/2006

Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation
to notify any person of such revisions or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new
editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications. This company makes
no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents
hereof and specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose.

Record the model number, serial number, purchase date and place of purchase information in
the space provided below. The serial number and model number are recorded on the label
affixed to your computer. All correspondence concerning your unit should include the serial
number, model number and purchase information.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form or by any means, electronically, mechanically, by photocopy, recording or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Aspire 5580/5570/3680/5570Z Series Notebook PC

Model number: __________________________________

Serial number: ___________________________________

Date of purchase: ________________________________

Place of purchase: ________________________________

Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Other companies'
product names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to
their respective companies.

Information for your safety and comfort

Safety instructions

Read these instructions carefully. Keep this document for future reference.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

Turning the product off before cleaning

Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid
cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

CAUTION for plug as disconnecting device

Observe the following guidelines when connecting and disconnecting power to
the power supply unit:

Install the power supply unit before connecting the power cord to the AC
power outlet.

Unplug the power cord before removing the power supply unit from the
computer.

If the system has multiple sources of power, disconnect power from the system
by unplugging all power cords from the power supplies.

iii

CAUTION for Accessibility

Be sure that the power outlet you plug the power cord into is easily accessible
and located as close to the equipment operator as possible. When you need to
disconnect power to the equipment, be sure to unplug the power cord from the
electrical outlet.

CAUTION for Dummy Card of PCMCIA & Express Slot

Your computer shipped with plastic dummies installed in the PCMCIA & Express
slot. Dummies protect unused slots from dust, metal object, or other particles.
Save the dummy for use when no PCMCIA or Express Card is installed in the slot.

CAUTION for Listening

To protect your hearing, follow these instructions.

• Increase the volume gradually until you can hear clearly and comfortably.

• Do not increase the volume level after your ears have adjusted.

• Do not listen to music at high volumes for extended periods.

• Do not increase the volume to block out noisy surroundings.

• Decrease the volume if you can't hear people speaking near you.

iv

Warnings

• Do not use this product near water.

• Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand or table. If the product

falls, it could be seriously damaged.

• Slots and openings are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable

operation of the product and to protect it from overheating. These
openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface.
This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat
register, or in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

• Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as

they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind onto or into
the product.

• To avoid damage of internal components and to prevent battery leakage,

do not place the product on a vibrating surface.

• Never use it under sporting, exercising, or any vibrating environment

which will probably cause unexpected short current or damage rotor
devices, HDD, Optical drive, and even exposure risk from lithium battery
pack.

Using electrical power

• This product should be operated from the type of power indicated on the

marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult
your dealer or local power company.

• Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this

product where people will walk on the cord.

• If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total

ampere rating of the equipment plugged into the extension cord does not
exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total
rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the fuse
rating.

• Do not overload a power outlet, strip or receptacle by plugging in too

many devices. The overall system load must not exceed 80% of the branch
circuit rating. If power strips are used, the load should not exceed 80% of
the power strip's input rating.

• This product's AC adapter is equipped with a three-wire grounded plug.

The plug only fits in a grounded power outlet. Make sure the power outlet
is properly grounded before inserting the AC adapter plug. Do not insert
the plug into a non-grounded power outlet. Contact your electrician for
details.

Warning! The grounding pin is a safety feature. Using a power
outlet that is not properly grounded may result in electric shock
and/or injury.

Note: The grounding pin also provides good protection from
unexpected noise produced by other nearby electrical devices that
may interfere with the performance of this product.

• Use the product only with the supplied power supply cord set. If you need

to replace the power cord set, make sure that the new power cord meets
the following requirements: detachable type, UL listed/CSA certified, type
SPT-2, rated 7 A 125 V minimum, VDE approved or its equivalent, 4.6
meters (15 feet) maximum length.

Product servicing

Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers
may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel.

Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service
personnel when:

• the power cord or plug is damaged, cut or frayed

• liquid was spilled into the product

• the product was exposed to rain or water

• the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged

• the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need

for service

• the product does not operate normally after following the operating

instructions

v

Note: Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions, since improper adjustment of other controls may
result in damage and will often require extensive work by a
qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition.

Replacing the battery pack

The notebook uses lithium batteries. Replace the battery with the same type as
that which came bundled with your product. Use of another battery may
present a risk of fire or explosion.

Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not
disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep them away from
children. Follow local regulations when disposing of used
batteries.

vi

Telephone line safety

• Disconnect all telephone lines from the equipment when not in use and/or

before servicing.

• To avoid the remote risk of electric shock from lightning, do not connect

the telephone line to this equipment during lightning or thunderstorms.

Warning! For safety reasons, do not use non-compliant parts
when adding or changing components. Consult your reseller for
purchase options.

Additional safety information

Your device and its enhancements may contain small parts. Keep them out of
the reach of small children.

Operating environment

Warning! For safety reasons, turn off all wireless or radio
transmitting devices when using your laptop under the following
conditions. These devices may include, but are not limited to:
wireless lan (WLAN), Bluetooth and/or 3G.

Remember to follow any special regulations in force in any area, and always
switch off your device when its use is prohibited or when it may cause
interference or danger. Use the device only in its normal operating positions.
This device meets RF exposure guidelines when used normally, and it and its
antenna are positioned at least 1.5 centimeters (5/8 inches) away from your
body (refer to the figure below). It should not contain metal and you should
position the device the above-stated distance from your body. To successfully
transmit data files or messages, this device requires a good quality connection
to the network. In some cases, transmission of data files or messages may be
delayed until such a connection is available. Ensure that the above separation
distance instructions are followed until the transmission is completed. Parts of
the device are magnetic. Metallic materials may be attracted to the device, and
persons with hearing aids should not hold the device to the ear with the
hearing aid. Do not place credit cards or other magnetic storage media near the
device, because information stored on them may be erased.

Medical devices

Operation of any radio transmitting equipment, including wireless phones, may
interfere with the functionality of inadequately protected medical devices.
Consult a physician or the manufacturer of the medical device to determine if
they are adequately shielded from external RF energy or if you have any
questions. Switch off your device in health care facilities when any regulations
posted in these areas instruct you to do so. Hospitals or health care facilities
may be using equipment that could be sensitive to external RF transmissions..

vii

Pacemakers. Pacemaker manufacturers recommend that a minimum separation
of 15.3 centimeters (6 inches) be maintained between wireless devices and a
pacemaker to avoid potential interference with the pacemaker. These
recommendations are consistent with the independent research by and
recommendations of Wireless Technology Research. Persons with pacemakers
should do the following:

• Always keep the device more than 15.3 centimeters (6 inches) from the

pacemaker

• Not carry the device near your pacemaker when the device is switched o. If

you suspect interference, switch off your device, and move it

Hearing aids. Some digital wireless devices may interfere with some hearing
aids. If interference occurs, consult your service provider.

.

Vehicles

RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded electronic
systems in motor vehicles such as electronic fuel injection systems, electronic
antiskid (antilock) braking systems, electronic speed control systems, and air bag
systems. For more information, check with the manufacturer, or its
representative, of your vehicle or any equipment that has been added. Only
qualified personnel should service the device, or install the device in a vehicle.
Faulty installation or service may be dangerous and may invalidate any
warranty that may apply to the device. Check regularly that all wireless
equipment in your vehicle is mounted and operating properly. Do not store or
carry flammable liquids, gases, or explosive materials in the same compartment
as the device, its parts, or enhancements. For vehicles equipped with an air bag,
remember that air bags inflate with great force. Do not place objects, including
installed or portable wireless equipment in the area over the air bag or in the
air bag deployment area. If in-vehicle wireless equipment is improperly
installed, and the air bag inflates, serious injury could result. Using your device
while flying in aircraft is prohibited. Switch off your device before boarding an
aircraft. The use of wireless teledevices in an aircraft may be dangerous to the
operation of the aircraft, disrupt the wireless telephone network, and may be
illegal.

Potentially explosive environments

Switch off your device when in any area with a potentially explosive
atmosphere and obey all signs and instructions. Potentially explosive
atmospheres include areas where you would normally be advised to turn off
your vehicle engine. Sparks in such areas could cause an explosion or fire
resulting in bodily injury or even death. Switch off the device at refueling points
such as near gas pumps at service stations. Observe restrictions on the use of
radio equipment in fuel depots, storage, and distribution areas; chemical plants;
or where blasting operations are in progress. Areas with a potentially explosive
atmosphere are often, but not always, clearly marked. They include below deck
on boats, chemical transfer or storage facilities, vehicles using liquefied
petroleum gas (such as propane or butane), and areas where the air contains
chemicals or particles such as grain, dust or metal powders.

viii

Emergency calls

Warning: You cannot make emergency calls through this device. To make an
emergency call you shall dial out through your mobile phone or other
telephone call system.

Disposal instructions

Do not throw this electronic device into the trash when discarding.
To minimize pollution and ensure utmost protection of the global environment,
please recycle. For more information on the Waste from Electrical and
Electronics Equipment (WEEE) regulations, visit
http://global.acer.com/about/sustainability.htm

Mercury advisory

For projectors or electronic products containing an LCD/CRT monitor or display:
Lamp(s) inside this product contain mercury and must be recycled or disposed of
according to local, state or federal laws. For more information, contact the
Electronic Industries Alliance at www.eiae.org
information, check www.lamprecycle.org

. For lamp-specific disposal

.

ENERGY STAR is a government program (public/private partnership) that gives
people the power to protect the environment in a cost effective way and
without sacrificing quality or product features. Products that earn the ENERGY
STAR prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency
guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US
Department of Energy (DOE). In the average home, 75% of all electricity used
to power home electronics is consumed while the products are turned off.
ENERGY STAR qualified home electronic products in the off position use up to
50% less energy than conventional equipment. More information refers to
http://www.energystar.gov

As an ENERGY STAR partner, Acer Inc. has determined that this product meets
the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

This product has been shipped enabled for power management:

and http://www.energystar.gov/powermangement.

• Activate display’ Sleep mode within 15 minutes of user inactivity.

• Activate computer’s Sleep mode within 30 minutes of user inactivity.

• Wake the computer from Sleep mode by pushing power button.

• More power management settings can be done through Acer ePower

Management.

ix

Tips and information for comfortable use

Computer users may complain of eyestrain and headaches after prolonged use.
Users are also at risk of physical injury after long hours of working in front of a
computer. Long work periods, bad posture, poor work habits, stress,
inadequate working conditions, personal health and other factors greatly
increase the risk of physical injury.

Incorrect computer usage may lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis,
tenosynovitis or other musculoskeletal disorders. The following symptoms may
appear in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck or back:

• numbness, or a burning or tingling sensation

• aching, soreness or tenderness

• pain, swelling or throbbing

• stiffness or tightness

• coldness or weakness

If you have these symptoms, or any other recurring or persistent discomfort
and/or pain related to computer use, consult a physician immediately and
inform your company's health and safety department.

The following section provides tips for more comfortable computer use.

x

Finding your comfort zone

Find your comfort zone by adjusting the viewing angle of the monitor, using a
footrest, or raising your sitting height to achieve maximum comfort. Observe
the following tips:

• refrain from staying too long in one fixed posture

• avoid slouching forward and/or leaning backward

• stand up and walk around regularly to remove the strain on your leg

muscles

• take short rests to relax your neck and shoulders

• avoid tensing your muscles or shrugging your shoulders

• install the external display, keyboard and mouse properly and within

comfortable reach

• if you view your monitor more than your documents, place the display at

the center of your desk to minimize neck strain

Taking care of your vision

Long viewing hours, wearing incorrect glasses or contact lenses, glare, excessive
room lighting, poorly focused screens, very small typefaces and low-contrast
displays could stress your eyes. The following sections provide suggestions on
how to reduce eyestrain.

Eyes

• Rest your eyes frequently.

• Give your eyes regular breaks by looking away from the monitor and

focusing on a distant point.

• Blink frequently to keep your eyes from drying out.

Display

• Keep your display clean.

• Keep your head at a higher level than the top edge of the display so your

eyes point downward when looking at the middle of the display.

• Adjust the display brightness and/or contrast to a comfortable level for

enhanced text readability and graphics clarity.

• Eliminate glare and reflections by:

• placing your display in such a way that the side faces the window or

any light source

• minimizing room light by using drapes, shades or blinds

• using a task light

• changing the display's viewing angle

• using a glare-reduction filter

• using a display visor, such as a piece of cardboard extended from the

display's top front edge

• Avoid adjusting your display to an awkward viewing angle.

• Avoid looking at bright light sources, such as open windows, for extended

periods of time.

Developing good work habits

Develop the following work habits to make your computer use more relaxing
and productive:

• Take short breaks regularly and often.

• Perform some stretching exercises.

• Breathe fresh air as often as possible.

• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body.

Warning! We do not recommend using the computer on a couch
or bed. If this is unavoidable, work for only short periods, take
breaks regularly, and do some stretching exercises.

xi

xii

First things first

We would like to thank you for making an Acer notebook your choice for
meeting your mobile computing needs.

Your guides

To help you use your Acer notebook, we have designed a set of guides:

First off, the Just for Starters... poster helps you get started with
setting up your computer.

The printed User's Guide introduces you to the basic features and
functions of your new computer. For more on how your computer
can help you to be more productive, please refer to the
AcerSystem User's Guide. This guide contains detailed
information on such subjects as system utilities, data recovery,
expansion options and troubleshooting. In addition it contains
warranty information and the general regulations and safety
notices for your notebook. It is available in Portable Document
Format (PDF) and comes preloaded on your notebook. Follow
these steps to access it:

1 Click on Start, All Programs, AcerSystem.
2 Click on AcerSystem User's Guide.

Note: Viewing the file requires Adobe Reader. If Adobe Reader is
not installed on your computer, clicking on AcerSystem User's
Guide will run the Adobe Reader setup program first. Follow the
instructions on the screen to complete the installation. For
instructions on how to use Adobe Reader, access the Help and
Support menu.

Basic care and tips for using your computer

Turning your computer on and off

To turn on the computer, simply press and release the power button below the
LCD screen beside the easy-launch buttons. See "Front view" on page 14 for the
location of the power button.

xiii

To turn the power off, do any of the following:

• Use the Windows shutdown command

Click on Start, Turn Off Computer, then click on Turn Off.

• Use the power button

You can also shut down the computer by closing the display cover, or by
pressing the sleep hotkey <Fn> + <F4>.

Note: If you cannot power off the computer normally, press and
hold the power button for more than four seconds to shut down
the computer. If you turn off the computer and want to turn it on
again, wait at least two seconds before powering up.

Taking care of your computer

Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.

• Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it near sources

of heat, such as a radiator.

• Do not expose the computer to temperatures below 0 ºC (32 ºF) or above

50 ºC (122 ºF).

• Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields.

• Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture.

• Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer.

• Do not subject the computer to heavy shock or vibration.

• Do not expose the computer to dust or dirt.

• Never place objects on top of the computer.

• Do not slam the computer display when you close it.

• Never place the computer on uneven surfaces.

Taking care of your AC adapter

Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter:

• Do not connect the adapter to any other device.

• Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of it.

Carefully route the power cord and any cables away from foot traffic.

• When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself but pull

on the plug.

• The total ampere ratings of the equipment plugged in should not exceed

the ampere rating of the cord if you are using an extension cord. Also, the
total current rating of all equipment plugged into a single wall outlet
should not exceed the fuse rating.

xiv

Taking care of your battery pack

Here are some ways to take care of your battery pack:

• Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements. Turn the power off

before removing or replacing batteries.

• Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from children.

• Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Recycle if possible.

Cleaning and servicing

When cleaning the computer, follow these steps:
1 Turn off the computer and remove the battery pack.
2 Disconnect the AC adapter.

3 Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
If either of the following occurs:

• the computer has been dropped or the body has been damaged;

• the computer does not operate normally

please refer to "Frequently asked questions" on page 45.

Information for your safety and comfort iii

Safety instructions iii
Additional safety information vi
Operating environment vi
Medical devices vi
Vehicles vii
Potentially explosive environments vii
Emergency calls viii
Disposal instructions viii
Tips and information for comfortable use ix

First things first xii

Your guides xii
Basic care and tips for using your computer xii

Turning your computer on and off xii
Taking care of your computer xiii
Taking care of your AC adapter xiii
Taking care of your battery pack xiv
Cleaning and servicing xiv

Acer Empowering Technology 1

Empowering Technology password 1
Acer eNet Management
(for selected models) 2
Acer ePower Management 4
Acer ePresentation Management 6
Acer eDataSecurity Management
(for selected models) 7
Acer eLock Management
(for selected models) 8
Acer eRecovery Management 10
Acer eSettings Management 12
Windows Mobility Center 13

Your Acer notebook tour 14

Front view 14
Closed front view 15
Left view 16
Right view 17
Rear view 18
Base view 19

Specifications 20
Indicators 26
Easy-launch buttons 27
Touchpad 28

Contents

Touchpad basics 28

Using the keyboard 30

Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad 30
Windows keys 31
Hotkeys 32
Special keys 34

Ejecting the optical (CD or DVD) drive tray 35
Using a computer security lock 35
Audio 36

Adjusting the volume 36

Using Acer Bluetooth® VoIP Phone 37

Getting to know your VoIP phone 37

Package contents 37
Layout 37
LED indicators 38

Charging the phone 38
Connecting the phone to your notebook 39
Using the phone 41

Using the system utilities 42

Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible) 42
Launch Manager 43
Norton Internet Security 44

Frequently asked questions 45

Requesting service 48

International Travelers Warranty (ITW) 48

Before you call 48

Battery pack 49

Battery pack characteristics 49

Maximizing the battery's life 49
Installing and removing the battery pack 50
Charging the battery 51
Checking the battery level 51
Optimising battery life 51
Battery-low warning 52

Acer Arcade
(for selected models) 54

Remote control 55

Remote functions 56
Finding and playing content 57

Settings 57
Arcade controls 58

Navigation controls 58

Player controls 58
Virtual keyboard 59
Background mode 59

Cinema 60

Settings 60

Album 61

Editing Pictures 61
Slide Show settings 61

Video 62

Playing a video file 62
Capturing video (TV models only) 62
Snapshot 62

Editing video 63
Music 63
TV (for selected models) 64

Time-shift functionality 64

Recorded TV 65

Scheduling recordings 65

Program guide 65

Find program 65

TV settings 65

Using TeleText functions 66
Make DVDs 67

Authoring CD/DVDs 67

Acer Arcade Deluxe
(for selected models) 68

68

Remote control 69

Remote functions 70
Starting Acer Arcade Deluxe 71
VideoMagician 71
TV Joy (selected models only) 71
SportsCap (selected models only) 71
DV Wizard 72
DVDivine 72

Taking your notebook PC with you 73

Disconnecting from the desktop 73
Moving around 73

Preparing the computer 73

What to bring to meetings 74
Taking the computer home 74

Preparing the computer 74

What to take with you 74

Special considerations 75
Setting up a home office 75

Traveling with the computer 75

Preparing the computer 75
What to take with you 75
Special considerations 76

Traveling internationally with the computer 76

Preparing the computer 76
What to bring with you 76
Special considerations 76

Securing your computer 77

Using a computer security lock 77
Using passwords 77

Entering passwords 78
Setting passwords 78

Expanding through options 79

Connectivity options 79

Fax/data modem 79
Built-in network feature 80
Fast Infrared (FIR)
(for selected models) 80
Universal Serial Bus (USB) 81
IEEE 1394 port
(for selected models) 81
PC Card slot 82
Installing memory 82

BIOS utility 83

Boot sequence 83
Enable disk-to-disk recovery 84
Password 84

Using software 85

Playing DVD movies 85

Acer eRecovery Management 86

Create backup 86
Burn backup disc 87
Restore and recovery 87

87

Troubleshooting 88

Troubleshooting tips 88
Error messages 88

Regulations and safety notices 91

FCC notice 91
Modem notices 92

Laser compliance statement 95
LCD pixel statement 95
Macrovision copyright protection notice 95
Radio device regulatory notice 96
General 96
European Union (EU) 96
The FCC RF safety requirement 98
Canada — Low-power license-exempt radio
communication devices (RSS-210) 99
Federal Communications Comission
Declaration of Conformity 100
Declaration of Conformity for CE Marking 101
LCD panel ergonomic specifications 102

Index 103

1

Acer Empowering Technology

The Empowering Technology toolbar makes it easy for you to access frequently
used functions and manage your new Acer system. Displayed by default in the
upper half of your screen, it provides access to the following utilities:

• Acer eNet Management (for selected models) hooks up to location-based

networks intelligently.

• Acer ePower Management optimizes battery usage via customizable

power plans.

• Acer ePresentation Management connects to a projector and adjusts

display settings.

• Acer eDataSecurity Management (for selected models) protects data with

passwords and encryption.

• Acer eLock Management (for selected models) limits access to external

storage media.

• Acer eRecovery Management backs up and recovers data flexibly, reliably

and completely.

• Acer eSettings Management accesses system information and adjusts

settings easily.

For more information, right click on the Empowering Technology toolbar, then
select the "Help" or "Tutorial" function.

Empowering Technology

Empowering Technology password

Before using Acer eLock Management and Acer eRecovery Management, you
must initialize the Empowering Technology password. Right-click on the
Empowering Technology toolbar and select "Password Setup" to do so. If you
have not initialized the Empowering Technology password and run Acer eLock
Management or Acer eRecovery Management, you will be asked to create it.

Note: If you lose the Empowering Technology password, there is

no way to reset it except by reformatting your system. Make sure

to remember or write down your password!

2

Acer eNet Management

(for selected models)

Acer eNet Management helps you quickly connect to both wired and wireless
networks in a variety of locations. To access this utility, select "Acer eNet
Management" from the Empowering Technology toolbar or run the program
from the Acer Empowering Technology program group in Start menu. You can
also set Acer eNet Management to start automatically when you boot up your
PC.

Acer eNet Management automatically detects the best settings for a new

Empowering Technology

location, while offering you the option to manually adjust the settings to match
your needs.

Acer eNet Management can save network settings for a location to a profile,
and automatically switch to the appropriate profile when you move from one
location to another. Settings stored include network connection settings (IP and

3

DNS settings, wireless AP details, etc.), as well as default printer settings.
Security and safety concerns mean that Acer eNet Management does not store
username and password information.

Empowering Technology

4

Acer ePower Management

Acer ePower Management features a straightforward user interface for
configuring your power management options. To access this utility, select "Acer
ePower Management" from the Empowering Technology toolbar, run the
program from the Acer Empowering Technology program group in Start menu,
or right-click the Windows power icon in the system tray and select "Acer
ePower Management".

Using power plans

Empowering Technology

Acer ePower Management comes with three predefined power plans: Balanced,
High performance and Power saver. You can also create customized power
plans. You can create, switch between, edit, delete and restore power plans, as
described below.

View and adjust settings for On Battery and Plugged In modes by clicking the
appropriate tabs. You can open Windows power options by clicking "More
Power Options".

Note: You cannot delete the predefined power plans.

To create a new power plan:

Creating customized power plans allows you to save and quickly switch to a
personalized set of power options.

1 Click the Create Power Plan icon.
2 Enter a name for your new power plan.
3 Choose a predefined power plan to base your customized plan on.
4 If necessary, change the display and sleep settings you want your computer

to use.

5 Click "OK" to save your new power plan.

To switch between power plans:

1 Select the power plan you wish to switch to from the drop-down list.
2 Click "Apply".

To edit a power plan:

Editing a power plan allows you to adjust system settings like LCD brightness
and CPU speed. You can also turn on/off system components to extend battery
life.

1 Switch to the power plan you wish to edit
2 Adjust settings as required.

5

3 Click "Apply" to save your new settings.

To delete a power plan:

You cannot delete the power plan you are currently using. If you want to delete
the active power plan, switch to another one first.

1 Select the power plan you wish to delete from the drop-down list.
2 Click the Delete Power Plan icon.

Battery status

For real-time battery life estimates based on current usage, refer to the panel in
the upper half of the window. Click the to view estimated battery life in

sleep and hibernate modes.

Empowering Technology

6

Acer ePresentation Management

Acer ePresentation Management lets you project your computer's display to an
external display device or projector using the hotkey: <Fn> + <F5>. If auto­detection hardware is implemented in the system and the external display
supports it, your system display will be automatically switched out when an
external display is connected to the system. For projectors and external devices
that are not auto-detected, launch Acer ePresentation Management to choose
an appropriate display setting.

Empowering Technology

Note: If the restored resolution is not correct after disconnecting a
projector, or you need to use an external resolution that is not
supported by Acer ePresentation Management, adjust your
display settings using Display Properties or the utility provided by
the graphics vendor.

7

Acer eDataSecurity Management

(for selected models)

Acer eDataSecurity Management is an encryption utility that protects your files
from being accessed by unauthorized persons. It is conveniently integrated with
Windows Explorer as a shell extension for quick data encryption/decryption and
also supports on-the-fly file encryption for Lotus Notes and Microsoft Outlook.

The Acer eDataSecurity Management setup wizard will prompt you for a
supervisor password and default encryption password. This password will be
used to encrypt files by default, or you can choose to enter your own password
when encrypting a file.

Empowering Technology

Note: The password used to encrypt a file is the unique key that

the system needs to decrypt it. If you lose the password, the

supervisor password is the only other key capable of decrypting

the file. If you lose both passwords, there will be no way to

decrypt your encrypted file! Be sure to safeguard all related

passwords!

8

Empowering Technology

Acer eLock Management

(for selected models)

Acer eLock Management is simple yet effective utility that allows you to lock
removable storage, optical and floppy drive devices to ensure that data can't be
stolen while your system is unattended.

• Removable Storage Devices — includes USB disk drives, USB pen drives, USB

flash drives, USB MP3 drives, USB memory card readers, IEEE 1394 disk
drives, and any other removable storage devices that can be mounted as a
file system when plugged into the system.

• Optical Drive Devices — includes any kind of CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, HD-DVD

or Blu-ray drive devices.

• Floppy Drive Devices — 3.5-inch floppy drives only.

To use Acer eLock Management, the Empowering Technology password must
be set first. Once set, you can apply locks to any of the devices types. Lock(s) will
immediately be set without any reboot necessary, and will remain after
rebooting, until removed.

Note: If you lose the Empowering Technology password, there is
no method to reset it except by reformatting your system. Make
sure to remember or write down your password.

9

Empowering Technology

10

Acer eRecovery Management

Acer eRecovery Management is a versatile backup utility. It allows you to create
full or incremental backups, burn the factory default image to optical disc, and
restore from previously created backups or reinstall applications and drivers. By
default, user-created backups are stored to the D:\ drive.

Acer eRecovery Management provides you with:

• Password protection (Empowering Technology password)

• Full and incremental backups to hard disk or optical disc

Empowering Technology

• Creation of backups:

• Factory default image

• User backup image

• Current system configuration

• Application backup

• Restore and recovery:

• Factory default image

• User backup image

• From previously-created CD/DVD

• Reinstall applications/drivers

11

Empowering Technology

For more information, please refer to "Acer eRecovery Management" on page
86 in the AcerSystem User's Guide.

Note: If your computer did not come with a Recovery CD or

System CD, please use Acer eRecovery Management's "System

backup to optical disc" feature to burn a backup image to CD or

DVD. To ensure the best results when recovering your system

using a CD or Acer eRecovery Management, detach all peripherals

(except the external Acer ODD, if your computer has one),

including your Acer ezDock.

12

Acer eSettings Management

Acer eSettings Management allows you to inspect hardware specifications, set
BIOS passwords and modify boot options.

Acer eSettings Management also:

• Provides a simple graphical user interface for navigation.

• Prints and saves hardware specifications.

• Lets you set an asset tag for your system.

Empowering Technology

13

Windows Mobility Center

The Windows Mobility Center collects key mobile-related system settings in one
easy-to-find place, so you can quickly configure your Acer system to fit the
situation as you change locations, networks or activities. Settings include display
brightness, power plan, volume, wireless networking on/off, external display
settings, display orientation and synchronization status.

Windows Mobility Center also includes Acer-specific settings like Bluetooth Add
Device (if applicable), sharing folders overview/sharing service on or off, and a
shortcut to the Acer user guide, drivers and utilities.

To launch Windows Mobility Center:

Empowering Technology

• Use the shortcut key < > + <X>

• Start Windows Mobility Center from the Control panel

• Start Windows Mobility Center from the Accessories program group in the

Start menu

14

Your Acer notebook tour

English

After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Just for Starters... poster,
let us show you around your new Acer notebook.

Front view

# Item Description
1 Built-in camera 1.3 megapixel/310,000 pixel web camera for video

2 Display screen Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), displays

3 Easy-launch

buttons

4 Status

indicators

communication. (for selected models)

computer output.
Buttons for launching frequently used programs.

See "Easy-launch buttons" on page 27 for more
details.

Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that light up to show
the status of the computer's functions and
components.

15

# Item Description
5 Keyboard For entering data into your computer.
6 Palmrest Comfortable support area for your hands when you

use the computer.

7 Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a

8 Click buttons

(left, center
and right)

9 Arcade/media/

volume buttons
10 Microphone Internal microphone for sound recording.
11 Power button Turns the computer on and off.

computer mouse.
The left and right buttons function like the left and

right mouse buttons; the center button serves as a
4-way scroll button.

For use with Acer Arcade and other media playing
programs (for selected models).

Closed front view

English

# Icon Item Description
1 Latch Locks and releases the lid.
2 Power indicator Indicates the computer's power status.

3 Battery indicator Indicates the computer's batttery

status.

4 Speakers Left and right speakers deliver stereo

5Bluetooth

communication
switch/indicator

6 Wireless

communication
switch/indicator

7 Headphones/speaker/

line-out jack with
S/PDIF support

audio output.
Enable/disables the Bluetooth function.

Indicates the status of Bluetooth
communication (optional).

Enable/disables the wireless function.
Indicates the status of wireless LAN
communication (optional).

Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g.,
speakers, headphones).

English

16

# Icon Item Description
8 Microphone-in jack Accepts input from external

microphones.

9 Line-in jack Accepts audio line-in devices (e.g.,

audio CD player, stereo walkman).

Left view

# Icon Item Description
1 External display

(VGA) port

2 Ventilation slots Enable the computer to stay cool, even

3 S-video/TV-out

(NTSC/PAL) port

4 USB 2.0 port Connects to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB

5 4-pin IEEE 1394

port

6 Infrared port Interfaces with infrared devices (e.g.,

7 5-in-1 card reader Accepts Memory Stick (MS), Memory Stick

8 PC Card slot Accepts one Type II PC Card.

Connects to a display device (e.g., external
monitor, LCD projector).

after prolonged use.
Connects to a television or display device

with S-video input.

mouse, USB camera).
Connects to IEEE 1394 devices.

(for selected models)

infrared printer and IR-aware computer).
(for selected models)

PRO (MS PRO), MultiMediaCard (MMC),
Secure Digital (SD) and
xD-Picture Card (xD) .

Note: Only one card can operate at any
given time.

9 PC Card slot eject

button

Ejects the PC Card from the slot.

17

Right view

# Icon Item Description
1 Optical drive Internal optical drive; accepts CDs or DVDs

2 Optical disk

access
indicator

3 Optical drive

eject button

4Emergency

eject hole

5Modem (RJ-

11) port

6 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter.

(slot-load or tray-load depending on model).
Lights up when the optical drive is active

(location depends on model).

Ejects the optical disk from the drive (location
depends on model).

Ejects the optical drive tray when the
computer is turned off (location depends on
model).

Connects to a phone line.

English

English

18

Rear view

# Icon Item Description
1 Kensington lock

slot

2 USB 2.0 ports Connect to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB

3 Battery Powers the computer.
4 Ethernet (RJ-45)

port

Connects to a Kensington-compatible
computer security lock.

mouse, USB camera).

Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/1000­based network (for selected models).

19

Base view

# Item Description
1 Memory compartment Houses the computer's main memory.
2 Cooling fan Helps keep the computer cool.

Note: Do not cover or obstruct the opening

of the fan.
3 Battery release latch Releases the battery for removal.
4 Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack.
5 Battery lock Locks the battery in position.
6 Hard disk bay Houses the computer's hard disk (secured

with screws).

English

20

Specifications

English

Operating
system

Platform

• Windows

• Windows

• Windows

• Windows

• Intel

•Intel

®

Vista™ Home Basic

®

Vista™ Home Premium

®

Vista™ Ultimate

®

Vista™ Starter

®

Centrino® Duo mobile technology, featuring:

®

Core™ 2 Duo processor T5500/T5600 (2 MB
L2 cache, 1.66/1.83 GHz, 667 MHz FSB) and
T7200/ T7400/ T7600 (4 MB L2 cache, 2/2.16/2.33
GHz, 667 MHz FSB) (for Aspire 5580)

®

•Intel

Core™ Duo processor T2300E/T2300/
T2400/T2500/T2600/T2700 (2 MB L2 cache,

1.66/1.66/1.83/2/2.16/2.33 GHz, 667 MHz FSB)
(for Aspire 5570)

®

• Mobile Intel

•Intel

®

945GM/PM Express chipset

PRO/Wireless 3945ABG network
connection (dual-band tri-mode 802.11a/b/g) or

®

Intel

PRO/Wireless 3945BG network connection
(dual-mode 802.11b/g) Wi-Fi CERTIFIED

™

solution, supporting Acer SignalUp

wireless

technology

• Intel

®

Celeron® M processor 410/420/430 (1 MB L2
cache, 1.46/1.60/1.73 GHz, 533 MHz FSB) or higher
(for Aspire 3680)

• Mobile Intel

®

940GML/943GML Express chipset

(for Aspire 3680)

• Intel

®

Pentium® dual-core processor T2060 (1 MB L2
cache, 1.60 GHz, 533 MHz FSB) (for Aspire 5570Z)

• Mobile Intel

®

943GML Express chipset

(for Aspire 5570Z)

System memory Up to 2 GB of DDR2 533/667 MHz system memory,

upgradeable to 4 GB using two soDIMM modules
(dual-channel support)

™

21

Display and
graphics

Storage
subsystem

Dimensions
and weight

• 14.1" WXGA Acer CrystalBrite

™

TFT LCD, 1280 x 800

pixel resolution, supporting simultaneous multi­window viewing on dual displays via Acer GridVista
(for selected models)

• NVIDIA

®

GeForce® Go 7300 with 128 MB of

dedicated GDDR2 VRAM with TurboCache

®

Technology, supporting Microsoft

DirectX® 9.0,

™

Shader Model 3.0, OpenEXR High Dynamic Range
(HDR) technology, NVIDIA

®

Express

• Mobile Intel

(for selected models)

®

945GM Express chipset with integrated

3D graphics, featuring Intel

®

PowerMizer® 6.0, PCI

®

Graphics Media

Accelerator 950, up to 224 MB of shared memory,
supporting Microsoft

• Mobile Intel

®

integrated 3D graphics, featuring Intel

®

DirectX® 9.0 and PCI Express

940GML/943GML Express chipset with

®

Graphics

Media Accelerator (GMA) 950, up to 224 MB of
shared system memory, supporting Microsoft

®

DirectX

9.0, dual independent display

®

(for Aspire 3680)

• Dual independent displays supported

(for selected models)

• 16.7 million colors

• Simultaneous LCD and CRT display, with LCD panel

refresh rate at 70 Hz

• Up to 2048 x 1536 resolution via non-interlaced

CRT display

• MPEG-2/DVD hardware-assisted capability

• Acer CinemaVision

• Acer ClearVision

™

video technology (Acer Arcade)

™

video optimization (Acer Arcade)

• 40/60/80/100/120/160 GB hard disk drive

• Optical drive options:

• 8X DVD-Super Multi double-layer

• DVD/CD-RW combo (for selected models)

• 5-in-1 card reader, supporting Memory Stick

™

Memory Stick PRO
(MMC), Secure Digital (SD) and xD-Picture Card

(MS PRO), MultiMediaCard

®

(MS),

™

(xD)

• 341 (W) x 251 (D) x 28/35 (H) mm

(13.4 x 9.88 x 1.10/1.37 inches)

• 2.4 kg (5.28 lbs.)

English

™

®

22

English

Power
subsystem

Input devices

Audio

• ACPI 3.0 CPU power management standard: supports

Standby and Hibernation power-saving modes

• 44 .4W 4000 mAh (6-cell) Li-ion battery pack

• Acer QuicCharge

• 80% charge in 1 hour

• 2-hour rapid charge system-off

• 2.5-hour charge-in-use

™

technology: (for selected models)

• 90 W AC adapter (for selected models)

• 65 W AC adapter

• 88-/89-key keyboard

• Touchpad with 4-way scroll button

• Four easy-launch buttons

• Six media keys: volume up/down, play/pause, stop,

next, previous (for selected models)

• Two front-access LED-switches: WLAN, Bluetooth

®

• Audio system with two built-in speakers

• Intel

®

High-Definition audio support

• MS Sound compatible

• S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) support for

digital speakers

• Built-in microphone

23

Communication

I/O interface

Security

• Modem: 56K ITU V.92 with PTT approval;

Wake-on-Ring ready

• LAN:

• Gigabit Ethernet; Wake-on-LAN ready
(for selected models)

• Fast Ethernet; Wake-on-LAN ready

• WLAN:

• Intel

• Acer InviLink

• WPAN: Bluetooth

®

PRO/Wireless 3945ABG network

connection (dual-band tri-mode 802.11a/b/g) or

®

PRO/Wireless 3945BG network connection

Intel
(dual-mode 802.11b/g) Wi-Fi CERTIFIED
solution, supporting Acer SignalUp

technology

solution, supporting Acer SignalUp
technology (for Aspire 3680/5570Z)

™

802.11b/g Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™

®

2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)

™

™

wireless

™

wireless

• Acer Video Conference featuring Voice and Video

over Internet Protocol (VVoIP) support via Acer
OrbiCam and optional Acer Bluetooth

®

VoIP phone

• Acer Orbicam 1.3 megapixel/310,000 pixel CMOS

camera (LCD panel-mounted) featuring :

• 225-degree ergonomic rotation

• Acer PrimaLite

™

technology

• PC Card slot (one Type II)

• 5-in-1 card reader (MS/MS PRO/MMC/SD/xD)

• Three USB 2.0 ports

• IEEE 1394 port (4-pin) (for selected models)

• Infrared port (for selected models)

• External display (VGA) port

• S-video/TV-out (NTSC/PAL) port

• Headphones/speaker/line-out jack with S/PDIF

support

• Microphone-in jack

• Line-in jack

• Ethernet (RJ-45) port

• Modem (RJ-11) port

• DC-in jack for AC adapter

• Kensington lock slot

• BIOS user and supervisor passwords

English

24

English

Software

Options and
accessories

Environment

• Acer Empowering Technology

• Acer eDataSecurity Management
(for selected models)

• Acer eLock Management
(for selected models)

• Acer eRecovery Management

• Acer eSettings Management

• Acer eNet Management
(for selected models)

• Acer ePower Management

• Acer ePresentation Management

• Acer Arcade

• Acer Arcade

• InstantOn Arcade

™

™

Delux

• Acer Mobility Center Plug-In

• Acer GridVista

™

• Acer Launch Manager

• Adobe

®

• CyberLink

• CyberLink

®

Reader

®

PowerDVD

®

PowerProducer

™

™

• Norton Internet Security™

• NTI CD-Maker

™

• Office 2007 (Office Ready)

• Acer Voice Connection Manager

Note: Software listed above is for reference
only. The exact configuration of your PC
depends on the model purchased.

• Acer Bluetooth

®

VoIP phone

• 9-cell Li-ion battery pack

• 6-cell Li-ion 2nd battery pack

• 90 W AC adapter (for selected models)

• 512 MB, 1 or 2 GB DDR2 533/667 MHz soDIMM

modules

• External USB floppy disk drive

• Temperature:

• Operating: 5 °C to 35 °C

• Non-operating: -20 °C to 65 °C

• Humidity (non-condensing):

• Operating: 20% to 80%

• Non-operating: 20% to 80%

25

System
compliance

• ACPI 3.0

• DMI 2.0

• Mobile PC 2002

• Wi-Fi

Warranty One-year International Travelers Warranty (ITW)

Note: The specifications listed above are for reference only. The
exact configuration of your PC depends on the model purchased.

Warning! For safety reasons, do not use non-compliant parts
when adding or changing components. Consult your reseller for
purchase options.

®

English

26

Indicators

English

The computer has serveral easy-to-read status indicators:

The front panel indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed
up.

Icon Function Description

Caps Lock Lights up when Caps Lock is activated.

Num Lock Lights up when Num Lock is activated.

HDD Indicates when the hard disk drive is active.

Bluetooth Indicates the status of Bluetooth communication.

Wireless LAN Indicates the status of wireless LAN communication.

Power Indicates the computer's power status.

Battery Indicates the computer's batttery status.

27

1. Charging: The light shows amber when the battery is charging.

2. Fully charged: The light shows green when in AC mode.

Easy-launch buttons

There are several conveniently located easy-launch buttons. They are: mail, Web
browser, Empowering Key < > and one user-programmable button.

Press < > to run the Acer Empowering Technology. Please see "Acer
Empowering Technology" on page 1. The mail and Web browser buttons are

pre-set to email and Internet programs, but can be reset by users. To set the
Web browser, mail and programmable buttons, run the Acer Launch Manager.
See "Launch Manager" on page 51.

English

Easy-launch button Default application

Acer Empowering Technology (user-programmable)

Email application (user-programmable)

Internet browser (user-programmable)

P

User-programmable

28

Touchpad

English

The built-in touchpad is a pointing device that senses movement on its surface.
This means the cursor responds as you move your finger across the surface of
the touchpad. The central location on the palmrest provides optimum comfort
and support.

Touchpad basics

The following items show you how to use the touchpad:

• Move your finger across the touchpad (2) to move the cursor.

• Press the left (1) and right (4) buttons located beneath the touchpad to

perform selection and execution functions. These two buttons are similar
to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the touchpad is the
same as clicking the left button.

• Use the 4-way scroll (3) button to scroll up or down and move left or right

29

a page. This button mimics your cursor pressing on the right scroll bar of
Windows applications.

Function Left button (1)

Execute Quickly click

twice.

Select Click once. Tap once.

Drag Click and hold,

then use
finger on the
touchpad to
drag the
cursor.

Access
context
menu

Scroll Click and

Right
button (4)

Click
once.

Main touchpad (2)

Tap twice (at the same
speed as double-clicking
a mouse button).

Tap twice (at the same
speed as double-clicking
a mouse button); rest
your finger on the
touchpad on the second
tap and drag the cursor.

Center
button (3)

hold to
move up/
down/left/
right.

English

Note: When using the touchpad, keep it — and your fingers — dry
and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movement; hence,
the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping harder will
not increase the touchpad's responsiveness.

Note: By default, vertical and horizontal scrolling is enabled on
your touchpad. It can be disabled under Mouse settings in
Windows Control Panel.

30

Using the keyboard

English

The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded numeric keypad, separate
cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys.

Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad

The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.

Lock key Description
Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are

Num Lock
<Fn> + <F11>

Scroll Lock
<Fn> + <F12>

in uppercase.
When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric

mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete with the
arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /). Use this mode when you
need to do a lot of numeric data entry. A better solution
would be to connect an external keypad.

When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line up or down
when you press the up or down arrow keys respectively.
Scroll Lock does not work with some applications.

The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is
indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps.
To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on

the keys.

Desired access Num Lock on Num Lock off
Number keys on

embedded keypad
Cursor-control keys

on embedded keypad
Main keyboard keys Hold <Fn> while typing

Type numbers in a normal
manner.

Hold <Shift> while using
cursor-control keys.

letters on embedded keypad.

Hold <Fn> while using
cursor-control keys.

Type the letters in a
normal manner.

31

Windows keys

The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions.

Key Description

Windows key

Pressed alone, this key has the same effect as clicking on the
Windows Start button; it launches the Start menu.
It can also be used with other keys to provide a variety of
functions:

<> : Open or close the Start menu

< > + <D>: Display the desktop

< > + <E>: Open Windows Explore

< > + <F>: Search for a file or folder

< > + <G>: Cycle through Sidebar gadgets

< > + <L>: Lock your computer (if you are connected to a
network domain), or switch users (if you're not connected to a

network domain)
< > + <M>: Minimizes all windows

< > + <R>: Open the Run dialog box

< > + <T>: Cycle through programs on the taskbar

< > + <U>: Open Ease of Access Center

< > + <X>: Open Windows Mobility Center

< > + <BREAK>: Display the System Properties dialog box

< > + <SHIFT+M>: Restore minimized windows to the
desktop

< > + <TAB>: Cycle through programs on the taskbar by
using Windows Flip 3-D

< > + <SPACEBAR>: Bring all gadgets to the front and select
Windows Sidebar

<CTRL> + < > + <F>: Search for computers (if you are on a
network)

<CTRL> + < > + <TAB>: Use the arrow keys to cycle through
programs on the taskbar by using Windows Flip 3-D

English

Application
key

Note: Depending on your edition of Windows
Vista, some shortcuts may not function as
described.

This key has the same effect as clicking the right mouse
button; it opens the application's context menu.

English

32

Hotkeys

The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the
computer's controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS utility.

To activate hotkeys, press and hold the <Fn> key before pressing the other key
in the hotkey combination.

Hotkey Icon Function Description
<Fn> + <F1> Hotkey help Displays help on hotkeys.

<Fn> + <F2> Acer eSettings Launches Acer eSettings in Acer

<Fn> + <F3> Acer ePower

Management

<Fn> + <F4> Sleep Puts the computer in Sleep

<Fn> + <F5> Display toggle Switches display output

<Fn> + <F6> Screen blank Turns the display screen

Empowering Technology. See
"Acer Empowering
Technology" on page 1.

Launches Acer ePower
Management in Acer
Empowering Technology. See
"Acer Empowering
Technology" on page 1.

mode.

between the display screen,
external monitor (if connected)
and both.

backlight off to save power.
Press any key to return.

33

Hotkey Icon Function Description
<Fn> + <F7> Touchpad toggle Turns the internal touchpad on

and off.

<Fn> + <F8> Speaker toggle Turns the speakers on and off.

<Fn> + <↑> Volume up Increases the sound volume.

<Fn> + <↓> Volume down Decreases the sound volume.

<Fn> + <→> Brightness up Increases the screen brightness.

<Fn> + <←> Brightness down Decreases the screen brightness.

English

English

34

Special keys

You can locate the Euro symbol and the US dollar sign at the upper-center
and/or bottom-right of your keyboard.

The Euro symbol

1 Open a text editor or word processor.
2 Either press < > at the bottom-right of the keyboard, or hold <Alt Gr>

and then press the <5> key at the upper-center of the keyboard.

Note: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol.
Please refer to www.microsoft.com/typography/faq/faq12.htm
more information.

for

The US dollar sign

1 Open a text editor or word processor.
2 Either press < > at the bottom-right of the keyboard, or hold <Shift>

and then press the <4> key at the upper-center of the keyboard.

Note: This function varies according to the language settings.

35

Ejecting the optical (CD or DVD) drive tray

Press the drive eject button to eject the optical drive tray when the computer
is on.

Insert a paper clip to the emergency eject hole to eject the optical drive tray
when the computer is off.

Using a computer security lock

The notebook comes with a Kensington-compatible security slot for a security
lock.

English

Wrap the computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a
table or handle of a locked drawer. Insert the lock into the notch and turn the
key to secure the lock. Keyless models are also available.

English

36

Audio

The computer comes with 32-bit Intel High-Definition audio, and built-in stereo
speakers.

Adjusting the volume

Use hotkeys to easily adjust the volume on your computer. See "Hotkeys" on
page 32 for more information on adjusting the speaker volume.

37

Using Acer Bluetooth® VoIP Phone

Getting to know your VoIP phone

Package contents

Check the following items in your Bluetooth VoIP phone package:

1. Acer Bluetooth VoIP phone

2. Quick guide
Contact your retailer immediately if any of the items is damaged or missing.

Layout

1 PC Card (PCMCIA) interface connector
2 Speaker
3

Power button

4 Bluetooth connection/pairing indicator
5 Charge/Power indicator
6 Microphone
7 Flip
8 Bluetooth connection/pairing

button

9

Speakerphone button

10 Volume up/down button

English

38

LED indicators

English

LED Color Status Description
Bluetooth

connection/
pairing indicator

Charge/Power
indicator

Blue Blinking

fast
Blinking slow The phone is linking with the

Off The phone is not paired or

Amber On The phone is charging.

Off The phone is fully-charged.
Blinking The phone needs to be

The phone is in pairing mode.

notebook.

linked with the notebook.

recharged.

Charging the phone

You need to charge the phone before initial use. It takes approximately four
hours for a full charge.

To charge the phone:

1. Turn the notebook on.

2. Locate the PC Card (PCMCIA) slot.

3. Insert the phone to the slot label up. Make sure that the phone is completely
pushed on the slot.

Note: The notebook detects the device and displays a New Device
Wizard window. Click No, not this time, then close the window.

4. The power/charge indicator lights up during charge and turns off when the
battery is full. Eject the phone from the PC Card slot when charging is finished.

39

Connecting the phone to your notebook

The Acer VCM Bluetooth Headset Connection Center is a convenient tool to
connect the phone to your notebook.

To connect the phone to your notebook:

1. Eject the phone from the PC Card slot, if necessary, then press the phone
power button for three seconds. The phone beeps twice and the charge/power
LED flashes to indicate that the phone is on.

2. Press the Bluetooth connection/pairing button for three seconds to put
the phone in "pair-link mode". The phone beeps, and the connection/pairing

and charge/power LEDs flash alternately.

3. Right-click the Acer VCM icon on the taskbar, then select Bluetooth
Headset Connection Center... from the pop-up menu. If you have not paired any

Bluetooth headset devices with the notebook previously, Acer VCM
automatically scans all Bluetooth headset devices within range, then displays
them in the Bluetooth Headset List with a New status. Otherwise, any previously
paired Bluetooth headset device shows "Read to Use".

English

4. Click the Acer Bluetooth VoIP Phone from the list, then click Connect. Acer
VCM automatically pairs the phone to the notebook, then changes the phone
status to "Default Use".

English

40

Note: Click Rescan if the Acer Bluetooth VoIP Phone does not
appear on the list. After pairing, Acer VCM automatically connects
the phone to the notebook each time you turn the phone on.
There is no need to connect the phone again.

41

Using the phone

You can use the phone in handheld or hands-free (speakerphone) mode. When
you receive an Internet call from your Instant Messaging service (i.e. MSN
Messenger, Skype), press the Bluetooth connection/pairing button . The
incoming call voice automatically diverts to the phone speaker so you can

receive the call.

Note: You can only receive/answer Internet calls through the
phone when it is linked to the notebook. Every time you turn the
phone on, Acer VCM automatically links it to the notebook. When
linked, the Bluetooth connection/pairing indicator on the phone
blinks slowly.

To switch to hands-free mode, rotate the phone flip counterclockwise, then
press the speakerphone button . Refer to the illustration.

®

English

42

Using the system utilities

English

Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible)

Note: This feature is only available on certain models.

To enable the dual display feature of your notebook, first ensure that a second
display is connected, then, open the Display Settings properties box using the
Control Panel or by right-clicking the Windows desktop and selecting
Personalize. Select the secondary monitor (2) icon in the display box and then
click the check box Extend the desktop onto this monitor. Finally, click Apply to
confirm the new settings and click OK to complete the process.

Acer GridVista offers four pre-defined display settings so you can view multiple
windows on the same screen. To access this function, please go to Start, All
Programs and click on Acer GridVista. You may choose any one of the four
display settings indicated below:

12

Double (vertical), Triple (primary at left), Triple (primary at right), or Quad
Acer Gridvista is dual-display compatible, allowing two displays to be

partitioned independently.
Acer GridVista is simple to set up:

1

3

2

1

3

2

3

1

4

2

43

1 Run Acer GridVista and select your preferred screen configuration for each

display from the taskbar.
2 Drag and drop each window into the appropriate grid.
3 Enjoy the convenience of a well-organized desktop.

Note: Please ensure that the resolution setting of your second
monitor is set to the manufacturer's recommended value.

Launch Manager

English

Launch Manager allows you to set the four easy-launch buttons located above
the keyboard. "Easy-launch buttons" on page 27 for the location of the easy­launch buttons.

You can access the Launch Manager by clicking on Start, All Programs, and then
Launch Manager to start the application.

English

44

Norton Internet Security

Norton Internet Security is an anti-virus utility that can protect against viruses,
keeping your data safe and secure.

How do I check for viruses?

1 Double-click the Norton Internet Security icon on the Windows desktop.
2Select Tasks & Scans.
3Select Run Scan to scan your system.

4 When the scan is complete, review the results of the scan.

Note: For optimal security, run a Full System Scan when scanning
your computer for the first time.

You can schedule customized virus scans that run unattended on specific dates
and times or at periodic intervals. If you are using the computer when the
scheduled scan begins, it runs in the background so that you do not have to
stop working.

For more information refer to the Norton Internet Security help files.

45

Frequently asked questions

The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of
your computer. Easy solutions are provided for each one.

I turned on the power, but the computer does not start or
boot up.

Look at the power indicator:

• If it is not lit, no power is being supplied to the computer. Check the

following:

• If you are using on the battery, it may be low and unable to power

the computer. Connect the AC adapter to recharge the battery pack.

• Make sure that the AC adapter is properly plugged into the computer

and to the power outlet.

• If it is lit, check the following:

• Is a non-bootable (non-system) disk in the external USB floppy drive?

Remove or replace it with a system disk and press <Ctrl> + <Alt> +
<Del> to restart the system.

Nothing appears on the screen.

The computer's power management system automatically blanks the screen to
save power. Press any key to turn the display back on.

If pressing a key does not turn the display back on, three things might be
the cause:

• The brightness level might be too low. Press <Fn> + <→> (increase) to

adjust the brightness level.

• The display device might be set to an external monitor. Press the display

toggle hotkey <Fn> + <F5> to toggle the display back to the computer.

• If the Sleep indicator is lit, the computer is in Sleep mode. Press and release

the power button to resume.

English

Image is not full-screen.

Each computer display has a different native resolution depending on the
screen. If you set the resolution lower than this native resoution, the screen
expands to fill the computer display. Right-click on your Windows desktop and
select Properties to bring up the "Display Properties" dialog box. Then click on
the Settings tab to make sure that the resolution is set to the appropriate
resolution. Resolutions lower than the specified resolution are not full-screen
on the computer or on an external monitor.

English

46

No audio is heard from the computer.

Check the following:

• The volume may be muted. In Windows, look at the volume control

(speaker) icon on the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click on the icon and
deselect the Mute all option.

• The volume level may be too low. In Windows, look at the volume control

icon on the taskbar. You can also use the volume control buttons to adjust
the volume. See "Hotkeys" on page 32 for more detail.

• If headphones, earphones or external speakers are connected to the line-

out port on the computer, the internal speakers automatically turn off.

I want to eject the optical drive tray without turning on the
power.

There is a mechanical eject hole on the optical drive. Simply insert the tip of a
pen or paperclip into the hole and push to eject the tray. (If your computer's
optical drive is a slot-load model, it will not have an eject hole.)

The keyboard does not respond.

Try attaching an external keyboard to a USB port on the computer. If it works,
contact your dealer or an authorized service center as the internal keyboard
cable may be loose.

The infrared port does not work.

Check the following:

• Make sure that the infrared ports of the two devices are facing each other

(+/- 15 degrees) a maximum of 1 meter apart.

• Make sure there is a clear path between the two infrared ports. Nothing

should be blocking the ports.

• Make sure you have the appropriate software running on both devices (for

file transfers) or you have the appropriate drivers (for printing to an
infrared printer).

• During the POST, press <F2> to access the BIOS utility and verify that the

infrared port is enabled.

• Make sure both devices are IrDA-compliant.

The printer does not work.

Check the following:

47

• Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and that it is

turned on.

• Make sure that the printer cable is connected securely to the computer's

parallel port or a USB port and the corresponding port on the printer.

I want to set up my location to use the internal modem.

To properly use your communication software (e.g. HyperTerminal), you need
to set up your location:

1 Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel.
2 Double-click on Phone and Modem Options.
3 Click on Dialing Rules and begin setting up your location.

Refer to the Windows manual.

Note: Please note, on first booting your notebook, that you can
skip the Internet Connection setup, as it is not necessary to
complete the installation of your Operating System. After the
Operating System is set up, you can proceed with the Internet
Connection setup.

I want to restore my computer to its original settings without
recovery CDs.

Note: If your system is the multilingual version, the operating
system and language you choose when you first turn on the
system will be the only option for future recovery operations.

English

This recovery process helps you restore the C: drive with the original software
content that is installed when you purchase your notebook. Follow the steps
below to rebuild your C: drive. (Your C: drive will be reformatted and all data
will be erased.) It is important to back up all data files before using this option.

Before performing a restore operation, please check the BIOS settings.

1 Check to see if Acer disk-to-disk recovery is enabled or not.
2 Make sure the D2D Recovery setting in Main is Enabled.
3 Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot.

Note: To activate the BIOS utility, press <F2> during POST.

English

48

To start the recovery process:
1 Restart the system.
2 While the Acer logo is showing, press <Alt> + <F10> at the same time to

enter the recovery process.

3 Refer to the onscreen instructions to perform system recovery.

Important! This feature occupies up to 10 GB in a hidden partition
on your hard disk.

Requesting service

International Travelers Warranty (ITW)

Your computer is backed by an International Travelers Warranty (ITW) that
gives you security and peace of mind when traveling. Our worldwide network
of service centers are there to give you a helping hand.

An ITW passport comes with your computer. This passport contains all you need
to know about the ITW program. A list of available, authorized service centers is
in this handy booklet. Read this passport thoroughly.

Always have your ITW passport on hand, especially when you travel, to receive
the benefits from our support centers. Place your proof-of-purchase in the flap
located inside the front cover of the ITW passport.

If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorized ITW service
site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide. Please consult
http://global.acer.com

.

Before you call

Please have the following information available when you call Acer for online
service, and please be at your computer when you call. With your support, we
can reduce the amount of time a call takes and help solve your problems
efficiently. If there are error messages or beeps reported by your computer,
write them down as they appear on the screen (or the number and sequence in
the case of beeps).

You are required to provide the following information:
Name: _____________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________
Telephone number: _________________________________
Machine and model type: ____________________________
Serial number: ______________________________________
Date of purchase: ___________________________________

49

Battery pack

The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between
charges.

Battery pack characteristics

The battery pack has the following characteristics:

• Employs current battery technology standards.

• Delivers a battery-low warning.

The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the
AC adapter. Your computer supports charge-in-use, enabling you to
recharge the battery while you continue to operate the computer.
However, recharging with the computer turned off results in a
significantly faster charge time.

The battery will come in handy when you travel or during a power
failure. It is advisable to have an extra fully charged battery pack
available as backup. Contact your dealer for details on ordering a spare
battery pack.

Maximizing the battery's life

Like all other batteries, your computer's battery will degrade over
time. This means that the battery's performance will diminish with
time and use. To maximize your battery's life, you are advised to
adhere to the recommendations set out below.

English

English

Conditioning a new battery pack

Before you use a battery pack for the first time, there is a
"conditioning" process that you should follow:

1 Insert the new battery without turning the computer on.
2 Connect the AC adapter and fully charge the battery.
3 Disconnect the AC adapter.
4 Turn on the computer and operate using battery power.
5 Fully deplete the battery until the battery-low warning appears.
6 Reconnect the AC adapter and fully charge the battery again.

50

Follow these steps again until the battery has been charged and
discharged three times.

English

Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't
been used for a long time. If the computer is to be stored for more
than two weeks, you are advised to remove the battery pack from the
unit.

Warning: Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0°C
(32°F) or above
affect the battery pack.

45°C (113°F). Extreme temperatures may adversely

By following the battery conditioning process you condition your
battery to accept the maximum possible charge. Failure to follow this
procedure will prevent you from obtaining the maximum battery
charge, and will also shorten the effective lifespan of the battery.

In addition, the useful lifespan of the battery is adversely affected by
the following usage patterns:

• Using the computer on constant AC power with the battery
inserted. If you want to use constant AC power, you are advised to
remove the battery pack after it is fully charged.

• Not discharging and recharging the battery to its extremes, as
described above.

• Frequent use; the more you use the battery, the faster it will reach
the end of its effective life. A standard computer battery has a life
span of about 300 charges.

Installing and removing the battery pack

Important! Before removing the battery from the unit, connect
the AC adapter if you want to continue using your computer.
Otherwise, turn off the computer first.

To install a battery pack:
1 Align the battery with the open battery bay; make sure that the

end with the contacts will enter first, and that the top surface of
the battery is facing up.

2 Slide the battery into the battery bay and gently push until the

battery locks in place.

51

To remove a battery pack:
1 Slide the battery release latch to release the battery.
2 Pull the battery from the battery bay.

Charging the battery

To charge the battery, first make sure that it is correctly installed in the
battery bay. Plug the AC adapter into the computer, and connect to a
mains power outlet. You can continue to operate your computer on AC
power while your battery is charging. However, charging the battery
with the computer turned off results in a significantly faster charge
time.

Note: You are advised to charge the battery before retiring for
the day. Charging the battery overnight before traveling enables
you to start the next day with a fully charged battery.

Checking the battery level

The Windows power meter indicates the current battery level. Rest the
cursor over the battery/power icon on the taskbar to see the battery's
present charge level.

Optimising battery life

Optimizing battery life helps you get the most out of battery
operation, prolonging the charge/recharge cycle and improving
recharging efficiency. You are advised to follow the suggestions set
out below:

• Purchase an extra battery pack.

• Use AC power whenever possible, reserving battery for on-the-go
use.

• Eject a PC Card if it is not being used, as it will continue to draw
power (for selected model).

• Store the battery pack in a cool, dry place. The recommended
temperature is 10°C to 30°C. Higher temperatures cause the
battery to self-discharge faster.

• Excessive recharging decreases the battery life.

• Look after your AC adapter and battery.

English

English

52

Battery-low warning

When using battery power pay attention to the Windows power

English

meter.

Warning: Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the
battery-low warning appears. Data will be lost if the battery to
become fully depleted and the computer shuts down.

When the battery-low warning appears, the recommended course of
action depends on your situation:

Situation Recommended Action

The AC adapter
and a power
outlet are
available.

An extra fully
charged battery
pack is available.

The AC adapter or
a power outlet is
unavailable. You
have no spare
battery pack.

1. Plug the AC adapter into the computer, and then
connect to the mains power supply.

2. Save all necessary files.

3. Resume work.

Turn off the computer if you want to recharge the
battery rapidly.

1. Save all necessary files.

2. Close all applications.

3. Shut down the operating system to turn off the
computer.

4. Replace the battery pack.

5. Turn on the computer and resume work.

1. Save all necessary files.

2. Close all applications.

3. Shut down the operating system to turn off the
computer.

53

English

English

54

Acer Arcade

English

(for selected models)

Acer Arcade is an integrated player for music, photos, TV, DVD movies and
videos. It can be operated using your pointing device or remote control.

To watch or listen, click or select a content button (e.g., Music, Video, etc.)
on the Arcade home page.

• Music — listen to music files in a variety of formats

• TV — watch and record digital or analog TV programs (for selected

models)

• Cinema — watch DVDs or VCDs

• Video — watch and/or edit video clips

• Album — view photos stored on your hard disk or removable media

Note: While watching videos, DVDs or slide shows, your
screensaver and power-saving features are unavailable.

55

Remote control

If your computer is bundled with a remote control for use wiht the Arcade
Deluxe software, the table below explains the functions.

English

Warning! The Arcade and Power buttons have different functions
depending on the current mode. See below for details. Button
functions may change depending on your power option settings.

To access Arcade in Windows mode, push the Arcade button to start Arcade.
Push it again at any time to return to the main menu. Pushing the Arcade
button again will close Arcade mode. Pushing the Power button will put your
notebook into Standby mode. Push it again to resume.

English

56

Remote functions

# Item Description
1 Live TV Launch Live TV mode
2 Power Turn off; sleep (depending on mode)
3 Menu Launch DVD menu screen
4 Language Open DVD language menu**
5 Record Record TV
6 Rewind Rewind through media
7 Play Play selection
8 Previous Skip back one music track, DVD chapter, or photo
9 Pause Pause audio, video, slide shows, live or recorded TV
10 SAP Toggle between sound modes (mono, stereo, etc.)
11 Full Screen Toggle between full screen and window view
12 Back Back to previous page
13 Navigation/

OK buttons
14 Mute Toggle audio on/off
15 VOL + / - Increase or decrease the audio playback level
16 0-9 buttons Enter TV channel numbers
17 TeleText/CC Launch TeleText*/ closed captions
18 Color buttons Teletext shortcut functions*
19 TV/AV Toggle between TV-in and AV-in
20 Arcade Launch/quit Acer Arcade; return to Arcade main page
21 Angle Toggle between different viewing angles**
22 Subtitle Open subtitles menu**
23 Stop Stop current playing or recording operation
24 Fast Forward Fast forward through media
25 Next Skip ahead one music track, DVD chapter, or photo
26 Capture Capture the current TV/Video screen
27 Info/EPG Show DVD or TV listings information
28 Last Ch Return to previous channel
29 Channel Change channels up and down
30 Ch scan Shortcut to scan channel page; scan TV channels

Navigate between selections and menu items, OK to
select option, enter, play and pause.

*TeleText regions only. **Dependent on individual DVD content.

57

Finding and playing content

Clicking a button on the Arcade home page opens the corresponding feature's
home page. The content pages have buttons on the left and a content browsing
area on the right. If a button shows one of several choices, such as sort order,
the current setting is shown by a brightly colored ball on the button.

To pick content, click an item in the content area. When there is more than one
CD or DVD drive, all drives will be shown. Pictures and videos are shown as files
(with thumbnails) and organized into folders.

To browse a folder, click to open it. To go back up to the folder above it, click
the Up one level button. If there is more content than will fit on a page, use the
buttons at the lower right to scroll through the pages.

Note: For more detailed information on the features of Acer
Arcade, please refer to the Arcade Help menu. This can be

accessed from the Arcade home page by selecting Help .

Settings

There are settings in Acer Arcade that allow you to fine-tune its performance to
suit your machine and your personal preferences. To access Settings, click on

this icon located on the upper-right hand corner of the main page.

Click Acer Arcade Help for comprehensive help on each Arcade mode.
In Display Settings:
Use the "Screen Ratio" option to choose between standard (4:3) or

widescreen (16:9) display when watching movies.
The "4:3 Movie Display Type" option allows you to select between

"CinemaVision

• Acer CinemaVision

produces minimal distortion in the center of the picture.

• The Letterbox option displays widescreen movie content in its original

aspect ratio and adds black bars at the top and bottom of the screen.

"Color profile" allows you to choose between "Original" or "ClearVision

• Acer ClearVision

content and dynamically adjusts the brightness/contrast/saturation levels

so that you do not need to change the color settings if the movie you are

watching contains scenes that are overly dark or too bright.

™

" or "Letterbox" mode.

™

is a nonlinear video stretching technology that

™

is a video enhancement technology that detects video

™

."

English

English

58

In Audio Settings:
Use "Speaker Environment" to choose between "Headphones," "SPDIF," "2" or

more speakers depending on your audio equipment.
"Output Mode" should be set to "Stereo" if you are listening to speakers,

"Dolby Surround," or "Virtual Surround Sound" if you are using headphones.

Note: If your speakers are not capable of outputting
low-frequency signals, it is recommended that you do not select
Virtual Surround Sound, in order to avoid damaging your

speakers.
Click Run Setup Wizard to change your original startup settings.
Click About Acer Arcade to open a page with version and copyright

information.
Click Restore Default Settings to return the Acer Arcade settings to their

default values.

Arcade controls

When watching video clips, movies or slide shows at full screen, two pop-up
control panels are shown when you move the pointer. They automatically
disappear after several seconds. The "Navigation Controls" panel appears at the
top and the "Player Controls" panel appears at the bottom of the screen.

Navigation controls

To return to the Arcade home page, click the Home button in the upper-left
corner of the window. To go up one folder level while searching for content,
click Up one level. To return to the previous screen, click the red arrow. The
buttons in the upper right (minimize, maximize, close) have standard PC
behaviors.

To quit Arcade, click the Close button in the upper right corner of the window.

Player controls

At the bottom of the window, the player controls — used for video, slide shows,
TV, movies and music — are shown. The group on the left provides standard
playback controls (play, pause, stop, etc.). The group on the right controls
volume (mute and volume up/down).

Note: When playing DVDs and watching TV, there are additional

controls added to the right of the volume controls. These are

discussed in more detail in the Cinema and TV sections of this

guide.

59

Virtual keyboard

Whenever you are required to enter search information, or name a file, DVD or
folder, you can use the onscreen virtual keyboard. You can quickly enter the
information you need using the mouse, cursor keys or keyboard.

Background mode

With Acer Arcade you can continue listening to music or watching Live TV
while you perform certain other functions. TV, video and music will continue
playing in a small window located in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen.

You can press the stop button on the remote or click the onscreen stop icon to
stop the playback at anytime.

English

English

60

Cinema

If your computer came with a DVD drive, you can play movies from DVDs and
video CDs (VCDs) with the Cinema function of Acer Arcade. This player has the
features and controls of a typical DVD player.

When you insert a disk into the DVD drive, the movie begins playing
automatically. To control the movie, the pop-up player control panel appears at
the bottom of the window when you move the pointer.

If more than one optical drive contains a playable disk, click the Cinema button
on the Home page to open the Cinema content page, then select the disk you'd
like to watch from the list on the right.

When viewing DVDs, the following special controls are added to the pop-up
panel:

• DVD Menu

• Subtitles

• Language

• Snapshot

• Angle

The disk currently playing will be shown in the area above the list of drives. This
page is also displayed when you press the Stop button during a movie. The
buttons on the left side allow you to resume the movie from the point it was
stopped, restart the movie from the beginning, jump to the DVD menu, eject
the disk, or go to the "DVD Settings" page.

Settings

To access the settings for Cinema, first click the "Settings" button on the main
menu, and then click on Cinema. This allows you to change "Video" and
"Language"settings.

The "Settings" control the audio and subtitle output of DVDs.
"Subtitles" selects the default subtitle language for DVDs when available. The

factory setting is "Off."
"Closed Captions" turns on the closed captions on DVDs. This function displays

captions encoded in the video signal that describe onscreen action and dialog
for the hearing impaired. The factory setting is "Off."

"Audio" selects the default language for DVD titles.
"Display Upon Mute" lets you choose whether to turn on the subtitles or

captions when you mute the sound for any reason.

61

Album

Acer Arcade lets you view digital photos individually or as a slide show, from
any available drive on your computer. Click the Album button on the Arcade
Home page to show the Album main page.

The content area on the right shows both individual pictures and folders.
Click on a folder to open it.

To view a slide show, open the folder containing the pictures you wish to view,
then click Play Slide Show. The slide show is played at full screen. Use the
pop-up control panel to control the slide show.

You can also view a single picture by clicking on it. This opens the picture at
full screen.

You can then use the onscreen player controls to zoom in and out, and to pan
in four directions.

English

Editing Pictures

Choose "Edit," and you can "Rotate," "Remove Red Eye," and "Auto Fix"
(optimize the brightness and contrast) pictures to improve the appearance of
your images.

Slide Show settings

To change Slide Show settings, click the Advanced button on the Album page
and select "Settings."

"Slide Duration" determines how long each slide is shown before automatically
advancing to the next picture in the slide show.

"Slide Show Transition" sets the style of transition used between pictures; you
can choose between Motion, Cell, Fade, Random, Wipe, Slide, Page and None
modes.

English

62

To add background music to a slide show, click on the "Slide Show Music"
option. The Slide Show Music page will ask you to choose music from your
personal music library.

Click Load Default Settings to return your settings to their default values.

Video

To open the Video function, click Video on the Arcade Home page.

Note: The Video feature is designed to play back many different

kinds of video formats. Refer to the Video help section for a full

list of compatible formats. If you want to watch a DVD or VCD, use

the "Cinema" function.

Playing a video file

Click Play to watch video files. The Video page shows the video files in the
content area on the right side. They are organized by folders and a thumbnail
image shows the first frame of each video.

To play a video file, click on it. The video will play at full screen. The pop-up
control panel will appear at the bottom of the screen when you move the
mouse. To return to the Video page, click Stop.

Capturing video (TV models only)

Acer Arcade allows you to capture and record video clips from other external
devices, such as a DVD player or camcorder.

Click Capture Device on the video page and then select the source you are using
for your video input. There is a choice between "S-video" and "Composite."

To capture a video clip, you then need to click the red record button in the
onscreen controls.

The destination folder can be set from the "Settings" menu.
Clicking on Advanced and selecting Settings allows you to set the quality of the

video captured. You can choose from "Good," "Better" or "Best." Selecting a
higher quality results in a larger file when capturing video clips.

Snapshot

Snapshot mode is available in Cinema, Video and TV modes. This function can
be used to capture the onscreen image at any time.

A single frame image will be captured and stored in a user designated directory.
The destination directory can be changed from the "Settings"menu.

63

Editing video

Acer Arcade offers the capability to edit captured video clips, photos and
footage from a camcorder into a movie. You can also select a movie style, and
add special transition effects and music to create the perfect home movie.

To edit a movie, click Advanced, and then select "Edit Video." Then select the
clips you wish to edit from your folders. To complete your movie, you may also
choose a "Movie Style," "Background Music," the perfect ratio of music and
audio, as well as the length of the movie.

"Select Scenes" can be used to include your favorite or the most important
scenes, or the editing decisions can be left to the editing program.

Once compiled, the final movie can then be burned to disk to share with family
and friends.

Note: For more details on editing video and all the associated
features, please refer to the Acer Arcade help menu.

Music

For convenient access to your music collection, click Music on the Arcade
homepage to open the Music homepage.

Select the folder, CD or category that contains the music you want to listen to.
Click Play to listen to the entire content from the beginning, or select the song
that you want to hear from the list in the content area.

The songs in the folder are shown in the content area, while the left side has
controls for "Play," "Shuffle" and "Repeat All." The "Visualize" option allows
you to watch computer-generated visuals while you listen to music. When
playing music, the control panel at the bottom of the page makes it easy to
adjust the volume and control playback.

To rip music from an audio CD, after you have inserted the CD, click Rip CD. In
the page that opens, select the songs you would like to rip (or click Select or
Clear All), then click Start Ripping.

The progress of the ripping operation will be displayed on screen.
You can change the file quality of the ripped tracks by clicking Settings.

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TV (for selected models)

Arcade allows you to watch TV from your computer. Click the TV button on the
home page to show the TV main page.

The Live TV option plays TV on screen. Press Escape at any time to return to
Arcade.

When you watch TV, additional buttons appear on the playback controls:
Channel Up (switches up one channel), Channel Down (switches down one
channel), Snapshot (takes a snapshot of the current frame of video), TeleText
(opens the TeleText function), and Record (records TV content as a video file).

The Recorded TV option allows you to view files that you have recorded from
the TV. See Recorded TV.

The Schedule option lets you set TV recording schedules for later viewing. See
Scheduling Recordings.

The Program Guide option lets you view program information for all channels.
See Program Guide.

The Find Program option enables you to search for a specific kind of program.
The Settings button opens a page containing TV settings. See TV settings for

more information.

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Signal settings

Click on Capture Device to select between an analog or digital input for your TV
signal.

Select TV Source to choose the source of the signal.
The Region option allows you to select the country or region where your cable

provider is located.
You can also enable and disable the time-shift function.

Channel settings

If no channel list exists, click Scan Channels. Your computer will scan and list the
available TV channels. Click Scan Channels to rescan and replace your existing
channel line-up.

Recording settings

The Recording Quality option allows you to set the quality of video recorded
from the TV. Selecting a higher quality results in a larger recorded file when
recording TV shows.

You can also select the destination for any recorded TV.

Guide settings

Click on EPG Source to select the source for your EPG program listings. This will
differ depending on your region.

Click Restore Default Settings to return your settings to their default values.

Using TeleText functions

For regions with the TeleText service, TeleText can be activated by using the
onscreen controller or the remote control.

Pressing the TeleText button on the remote will bring up TeleText; press again
to bring up transparent mode (the text will have TV pictures in the
background), and press once more to return to TV only.

To navigate within the TeleText function, you can:

• Click the color buttons to follow the onscreen color shortcuts.

• Click an onscreen page number to jump to that page.

• Use the number buttons to enter a page number directly.

• Use the up/down buttons on the remote to navigate page numbers,

followed by OK to select.

• Use the left and right buttons to browse sub-pages.

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Note: The snapshot function is available when TeleText is running.

Make DVDs

Acer Arcade provides an easy and complete solution for recording data, audio,
photos or videos. You can burn and share any combination of data, music,
photos or videos onto a CD or DVD — direct from Make DVD mode or some of
the other Acer Arcade media modes.

Authoring CD/DVDs

With Acer Arcade it is possible to create CD or DVDs directly from the main
menu, or from whichever media mode you may be using. The burn DVD option
can be found in the "Advanced" or "Main" menu of Video, Album and Music
media modes.

You can burn your favorite songs to a CD or convert songs from your music
collection to MP3 and other popular audio formats. You can even create MP3
CDs with over 100 of your favorite songs and listen to them on your PC or MP3
CD player.

With Arcade, you can also turn digital photos into a slide show with
background music, or burn TV and film clips into an amateur movie. You can
share any event with your friends and family for playback on most DVD players.
You can even add customized theme menus and menu music.

It is also possible to burn combo CD/DVDs with music, photos, film and TV clips
all in one. The possibilities are endless!

For specific details about each of these options, click the Help button to open
the Arcade help menu.

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File type compatibility

For details on file compatibility, please refer to the first page of the Arcade
online help menu for each media mode.

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Acer Arcade Deluxe

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(for selected models)

Note: Acer Arcade Deluxe is available for systems with Windows

Media Center.

Acer Arcade Deluxe extends the capabilities of your Windows Media Center­equipped system with a set of Acer utilities designed to make it easy to manage
your multimedia files, create your own customized content, and more.

Arcade Deluxe includes the following utilities:
Acer Arcade Deluxe extends the capabilities of your Windows Media Center-

equipped system with a set of Acer utilities designed to make it easy to manage
your multimedia files, create your own customized content, and more.

Arcade Deluxe includes the following utilities:

• VideoMagician

• TV Joy (selected models only)

• SportsCap (selected models only)

• DV Wizard

• DVDivine

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Remote control

If your computer is bundled with a remote control for use wiht the Arcade
Deluxe software, the table below explains the functions

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2

3
4

5
6

7

8

9

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18
19

20

21

22

23

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24

25

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Remote functions

# Item Description
1 Play Play selection
2 Record Record TV
3 Rewind Reverse playback or go to previous picture
4 Skip Backward Skip a section backward
5 Pause Pause playback
6 Recorded TV Display Recorded TV page
7 Guide Display the Guide
8 Navigation/

OK buttons
9 Mute Toggle audio on/off
10 Back Move up one level in the UI
11 Volume + / - Increase or decrease the audio playback level
12 Start Open or close Media Center
13 Color buttons Teletext shortcut functions*
14 TeleText* Turn teletext on or off
15 Enter Make the current input active
16 Power Put in or wake from Standby mode
17 DVD Menu Display DVD menu
18 Stop Stop current playing or recording operation
19 Fast Forward Speed up playback or go to next picture
20 Skip Forward Skip a section forward
21 Live TV Show live TV on current channel
22 Information Provide information for current selection
23 Channel + / - Change the current channel
24 0-9 buttons Enter TV channel or other input
25 Clear Clear current input

Navigate and confirm selections

*TeleText regions only.

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Starting Acer Arcade Deluxe

You can run the Acer Arcade Deluxe utilities directly from Windows Media
Center. To do this, scroll up/down from the Main page to view the Acer Arcade
Deluxe utilities list and left/right to select a utility.

To run the Acer Arcade Deluxe utilities outside of Windows Media Center,
double-click the Acer Arcade Deluxe icon from the Windows desktop.

Note: For detailed information about specific Acer Arcade Deluxe
utiltiies, use the built-in help files.

VideoMagician

VideoMagician allows you to edit video files (in DAT, DVR-MS, MPG, MPE, AVI,
ASF, MPEG, WMV, VOB, MPEG1, and MPEG2 formats) on your computer.
VideoMagician offers multiple themes to create exciting movies in just a few
simple steps. When you launch VideoMagician to edit a video, the Select Videos
page opens.

TV Joy (selected models only)

TV Joy enriches the TV watching experience on your computer. You can enjoy
live TV programs, schedule recordings and watch recorded TV shows. When TV
Joy is launched, the last channel viewed will be displayed full screen.

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SportsCap (selected models only)

SportsCap is a revolutionary way of watching your sports videos. It
automatically detects highlights of the most memorable moments in sports
from your recorded games.

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DV Wizard

DV Wizard provides real-time preview and capture from DV camcorders and
webcams to your computer's hard drive or directly burned to DVD. DV Wizard
also supports the capture of High Definition video to your computer's hard disk
in the DVD format. Attach your DV camcorder or web cam to your computer
and then start DV Wizard to begin.

DVDivine

DVDivine is a handy utility for quickly creating DVDs or other discs containing
video, pictures, or music. In just a few easy steps, you can design, organize, then
burn your disc. When you start DVDivine, the Select Media page appears,
allowing you to select the kind of media that you want to include on your disc.
You can select Videos, Pictures or Music.

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Taking your notebook PC with you

This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or
traveling with your computer.

Disconnecting from the desktop

Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories:

1 Save any open files.
2 Remove any media, floppy disks or compact disks from the drive(s).
3 Shut down the computer.
4 Close the display cover.
5 Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter.
6 Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer, external monitor and

other external devices.

7 Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are using one to secure the

computer.

Moving around

When you are just moving within short distances, for example, from your office
desk to a meeting room.

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Preparing the computer

Before moving the computer, close and latch the display cover to place it in
Sleep mode. You can now safely take the computer anywhere you go within
the building. To bring the computer out of Sleep mode, open the display; then
press and release the power button.

If you are taking the computer to a client's office or a different building, you
may choose to shut down the computer:

Click on Start, Turn Off Computer, then click on Turn Off (Windows XP).

Or:

You can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing <Fn> + <F4>. Then close
and latch the display.

When you are ready to use the computer again, unlatch and open the display;
then press and release the power button.

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Note: If the Sleep indicator is off, the computer has entered
Hibernation mode and is turned off. If the power indicator is off
but the Sleep indicator is on, the computer has entered Sleep
mode. In both cases, press and release the power button to turn
the computer back on. Note that the computer may enter
Hibernation mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time.

What to bring to meetings

If your meeting is relatively short, you probably do not need to bring anything
with you other than your computer. If your meeting will be longer, or if your
battery is not fully charged, you may want to bring the AC adapter with you to
plug in your computer in the meeting room.

If the meeting room does not have an electrical outlet, reduce the drain on the
battery by putting the computer in Sleep mode. Press <Fn> + <F4> or close the
display cover whenever you are not actively using the computer. To resume,
open the display (if closed), then press and release the power button.

Taking the computer home

When you are moving from your office to your home or vice versa.

Preparing the computer

After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow these steps to
prepare the computer for the trip home:

• Check that you have removed all media and compact disks from the

drive(s). Failure to remove the media can damage the drive head.

• Pack the computer in a protective case that can prevent the computer from

sliding around and cushion it if it should fall.

Caution: Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the
computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen.

What to take with you

Unless you have some items at home, take the following items with you:

• AC adapter and power cord

• The printed User's Guide

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Special considerations

Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and
from work:

• Minimize the effects of temperature changes by keeping the computer

with you.

• If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot carry the

computer with you, leave the computer in the trunk of the car to avoid

exposing the computer to excessive heat.

• Changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation. Allow the

computer to return to room temperature, and inspect the screen for

condensation before turning on the computer. If the temperature change

is greater than 10 °C (18 °F), allow the computer to come to room

temperature slowly. If possible, leave the computer for 30 minutes in an

environment with a temperature between outside and room temperature.

Setting up a home office

If you frequently work on your computer at home, you may want to purchase a
second AC adapter for use at home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid
carrying the extra weight to and from home.

If you use your computer at home for significant periods of time, you might also
want to add an external keyboard, monitor or mouse.

Traveling with the computer

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When you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office
building to a client's office building or traveling locally.

Preparing the computer

Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Make sure that the battery
in the computer is charged. Airport security may require you to turn on your
computer when carrying it into the gate area.

What to take with you

Take the following items with you:

• AC adapter

• Spare, fully-charged battery pack(s)

• Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer

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Special considerations

In addition to the guidelines for taking the computer home, follow these
guidelines to protect your computer while traveling:

• Always take the computer as carry-on luggage.

• If possible, have the computer inspected by hand. Airport security X-ray

machines are safe, but do not put the computer through a metal detector.

• Avoid exposing floppy disks to hand-held metal detectors.

Traveling internationally with the computer

When you are moving from country to country.

Preparing the computer

Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling.

What to bring with you

Bring the following items with you:

• AC adapter

• Power cords that are appropriate for the country to which you

are traveling

• Spare, fully-charged battery packs

• Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer

• Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to customs officials

• International Travelers Warranty passport

Special considerations

Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer. In
addition, these tips are useful when traveling internationally:

• When traveling in another country, check that the local AC voltage and the

AC adapter power cord specifications are compatible. If not, purchase a
power cord that is compatible with the local AC voltage. Do not use
converter kits sold for appliances to power the computer.

• If you are using the modem, check if the modem and connector is

compatible with the telecommunications system of the country you are
traveling in.

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Securing your computer

Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn
how to protect and take care of your computer.

Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch
and passwords.

Using a computer security lock

The notebook comes with a Kensington-compatible security slot for a security
lock.

Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a
table or handle of a locked drawer. Insert the lock into the notch and turn the
key to secure the lock. Some keyless models are also available.

Using passwords

Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these
passwords creates several different levels of protection for your computer
and data:

• Supervisor Password prevents unauthorized entry into the BIOS utility.

Once set, you must enter this password to gain access to the BIOS utility.

See "BIOS utility" on page 83.

• User Password secures your computer against unauthorized use. Combine

the use of this password with password checkpoints on boot-up and

resume from Hibernation for maximum security.

• Password on Boot secures your computer against unauthorized use.

Combine the use of this password with password checkpoints on boot-up

and resume from Hibernation for maximum security.

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Important! Do not forget your Supervisor Password! If you forget
your password, please get in touch with your dealer or an
authorized service center.

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Entering passwords

When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the
display screen.

• When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you press

<F2> to enter the BIOS utility at boot-up.

• Type the Supervisor Password and press <Enter> to access the BIOS utility.

If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try
again and press <Enter>.

• When the User Password is set and the password on boot parameter is

enabled, a prompt appears at boot-up.

• Type the User Password and press <Enter> to use the computer. If you

enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and
press <Enter>.

Important! You have three chances to enter a password. If you fail
to enter the password correctly after three tries, the system halts.
Press and hold the power button for four seconds to shut down
the computer. Then turn on the computer again, and try again.

Setting passwords

You can set passwords using the BIOS utility.

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Expanding through options

Your notebook PC offers you a complete mobile computing experience.

Connectivity options

Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would
with a desktop PC. For instructions on how to connect different external devices
to the computer, read the following section.

Fax/data modem

Your computer has a built-in V.92 56 Kbps fax/data modem.

Warning! This modem port is not compatible with digital phone
lines. Plugging this modem into a digital phone line will damage
the modem.

To use the fax/data modem port, connect a phone cable from the modem port
to a telephone jack.

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Warning! Please make sure that the cable you use is appropriate
for the country in which you are working.

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Built-in network feature

The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an
Ethernet-based network.

To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the Ethernet
(RJ-45) port on the chassis of the computer to a network jack or hub on
your network.

Fast Infrared (FIR)
(for selected models)

The computer's Fast Infrared (FIR) port allows you to do wireless data transfer
with other IR-aware computers and peripherals such as PDAs, mobile phones,
and infrared printers. The infrared port can transfer data at speeds of up to 4
Mbps at a distance of up to one meter.