Acer ASPIRE ELD User Manual

Hey!

Wait

a minute

Did you know your Acer Aspire comes with incredible
multimedia software that was designed to show you all the
cool stuff your computer can do? This book is your handy
desktop reference for your Acer Aspire. For more
information, access the online guide.

(P.S. - If you’re reading this because you’re having trouble with your
computer, check the “Need Help?” section in this book.)

Copyright

Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks and Aspire is a trademark of Acer Inc. and Acer America
Corpor ation.

Microsoft Windows and the Windows Logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel and
Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corp. All other brands/product names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.

© 2001 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved.

Printed in China
First printing: November 2001

Table

of Contents

Welcome v

Before You Start . . . vi

Safety Instructions vi
Proper Setup and Placement Tips ix

Introducing your Aspire 1

The System 1
The Mouse 5
The Keyboard 6
The Monitor 10
The Speakers 11
Drives on Your Computer 12
Your Data/Fax Modem 17
Connecting an Optional Printer 18
Connecting an Optional Serial Device 19
Connecting an Optional Joystick or MIDI Device 20

Getting the most from your Aspire Audio System 21

Playing an Audio CD 21
Adjusting the Volume 21

iii

Adding Options to your Aspire 23

Opening/Closing Your Aspire 23
Connecting USB Devices 26

Need Help? 27

Troubleshooting - General 27
Troubleshooting - Error Messages 30
Additional Acer Services 32
Notices 33

iv

Welcome

purchasing an Aspire computer. You are now the owner of a
multimedia computer system! Already installed on your system and
ready to go are software programs designed to enable you to:

• Create personal documents

• Access the Internet and send and receive emails

• Use your computer as a fax machine

• Play audio CDs while you’re working

and tons more!

Whether you’ve owned a computer before or not, your Aspire was
designed to improve the way you work and to serve your needs now
and into the future.

and

thank you

for

v

vi

Before You Start . . .

Make sure you read this section carefully for proper
placement and important Safety Instructions on the use and
care of your new computer. Please save these instructions
for future reference.

Safety Instructions

• Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the
product.

• Unplug this product from the wall outlet before
cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol
cleaners. Use a cloth mildly dampened with water for
cleaning.

• Do not use this product in or near water.

• Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand,

or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage
to the product.

• Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or
bottom 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.

• 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.

• This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type
plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug
will only fit into a grounding
a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into
the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your
obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the
grounding

-type plug.

-type power outlet. This is

• Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord.
Do not locate this product where persons 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 15 amperes.

• 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 on the product.

• Do not attempt to service this product yourself;

opening or removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel. Service by
persons other than Acer authorized service
providers may void your warranty.

• Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:

a When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.

b If liquid has been spilled into the product.

c If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

d If the product does not operate normally when the

operating instructions are followed. 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.

e If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has

been damaged.

f If the product exhibits a distinct change in

performance, indicating a need for service.

• Replace battery with the same type as the product’s
battery we recommend. Use of another battery may
present a risk of fire or explosion. Refer battery
replacement to qualified service personnel.

vii

viii

• Warning! Battery may explode if not handled properly.
Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire. Keep
away from children and dispose of used battery
promptly.

• Use only the proper type of power supply cord set
(provided in your keyboard/manual accessories box)
for this unit. It should be a detachable type: UL listed/
CSA certified, type SVT/SJT, rated 6A 125V minimum,
VDE approved or its equivalent. Maximum length is
15 feet (4.6 meters).

• Always unplug the computer and monitor before
opening the housing or adjusting connections or
cables.

• Use power strips with surge protection to protect your
computer in the event of a power surge, due to severe
weather such as a thunderstorm.

Proper Setup and Placement Tips

It’s important that your computer be set up correctly and
according to your own comfort and ergonomic needs.
The following tips should make your workstation a
comfortable and healthy place:

Monitor Level. Position your computer so that it is at
arm’s length away and the top third of the monitor
viewing area is at eye level. This helps prevent eye and
neck strain. To further reduce eye strain, close your eyes
and refocus on something other than your computer
screen at least twice an hour. Most monitors come
standard with a detachable tilt-and-swivel base and
adjustable, rear-mounted foot, which allow you to
position the monitor exactly where you want it.

Your S e a t . If you plan to use your Aspire computer for
extended periods (for example, in a home office
environment), select a highly adjustable office chair with a
five-pronged base. The seat and chair back should be
adjustable, while you’re sitting in the chair, for height and
tilt, and forward/backward positioning, and the lumbar
area of the back should be supported by the chair
adjustments or a cushion. Arm rests should conform to
your elbow height and shoulder width and should be
used for support. For maximum comfort, vary positions
frequently throughout the day. Observe good posture
when seated, keep your head centered over your
shoulders and, just like your mother always told you,
don’t slump over your work.

ix

Anti-Glare Coating. Some monitor screens are
constructed with a special anti-glare coating, which
minimizes reflections that cause eye strain and
discomfort. To further reduce eye strain, close your eyes
and refocus on something other than your computer
screen at least twice an hour.

x

Task Lighting . When room lighting is dimmed, there may
be insufficient light on documents or reference materials for
comfortable reading. A well-lit room or a few directional,
adjustable task lights will allow you to see your monitor
screen and other materials clearly, and with the least
amount of strain.

Hand and Wrist. Keep your wrists straight and your
forearms parallel to the floor while you are typing. If you use
a wrist rest, use it only briefly for resting. Do not rest your
hands on the table or on the wrist rest while you are typing.
During long periods of typing, frequent breaks are
recommended.

1

Introducing

your Aspire

The System

No. Description

1

2

Speaker/Headphone

-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive

CD
activity indicator

-out port

3

4

5 Acer GoTo drive bay keylock

6 Acer GoTo drive activity indicator

7 Acer GoTo drive (optional)

8Power indicator

9 LAN activity indicator

10 Hard disk activity indicator

-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive

CD
emergency eject hole

-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive

CD
Stop/Eject button

2

No. Description

11 Power button

12

13

14

15 CD/DVD compartment

16 Front USB ports

17

18

19 Memory Stick slot (optional)

20 Multimedia port bay cover

-inch floppy drive eject button

3.5

-inch floppy drive

3.5

-inch floppy drive activity indicator

3.5

Front microphone

Speaker/Headphone

-in port

-out port

Setting Up Your Aspire

Refer to the Aspire Easy Setup poster included in your
system box for details on how to set up your computer.

Turning on your Aspire

1 Turn on all peripherals connected to your computer

such as the monitor, printer, fax, speakers, etc.

2 On your computer’s rear panel, set the voltage selector

1

to the voltage range applicable in your area (a)

switch
then turn on the main power switch (b).

Note: For models with no voltage selector switch
and main power switch, proceed to step 3.

1

Applies to selected models only.

3 On the front panel of your computer, press the

power button.

3

Whe n the com puter fini shes booting, it is now read y
for use.

4

Important: Make sure that the power cable is
properly plugged in into an electrical outlet. If you
are using a power strip or an AVR (Auto
Regulator), make sure that it is plugged in and
turned on.

-Volt age

Turning off your Aspire

Option 1: Quickstart OFF. Your Aspi re will c ontin ue to run
in the Quickstart OFF condition. It will appear that it is OFF.
When you press the power button to switch your Aspire to
the fully ON condition, it will do so in only a few seconds.

Option 2: Traditional OFF. If you want your Aspire to
completely power OFF (if you need to unplug it):

1 Click on the Start button on the taskbar.

2 Click on Shut Down.

3 Click on Shut Down the Computer and click Yes. Your

computer will guide you through saving any open files
and then will shut down Windows Me. Your computer
will then turn off all computer power automatically.
You will have to manually turn off your monitor after
you see the computer power go off.

The Mouse

5

The mouse uses a cursor called a pointer. Pointers come
in many different shapes but are most commonly shaped
like an arrow.

Your mouse has two buttons: a left button and a right
button. Quickly pressing and releasing one of these
buttons is called clicking. Sometimes you will need to
double-click or click the same button twice quickly.

In this manual, click means to position your mouse point
on an icon and to single click the left button. When a
right-click is required, this is stated clearly. Double-click
also refers to the left button.

The ratchet wheel in between the two buttons is added
to provide easier scrolling capability. By simply moving
the wheel with your index finger, you can quicky move
through multiple pages, line, or windows. The wheel may
also function as a third button allowing you to quickly
click or double-click an icon or a selected item.

Ratchet Wheel

Left Button

Right Button

Caring for your

mouse

Pointer movement on the
screen is controlled by the
movement of a small ball on
the bottom of the mouse.

Using a mouse pad under
your mouse will help to keep
the internal parts of the
mouse clean. A dirty mouse
results in jerky pointer
movement and difficulty
getting the pointer where you
want it on screen.

To clean your mouse:

1 Turn the mouse upside

down.

2 Remove the ring

holding the ball in
place by turning it
counterclockwise.

3 Using a lint-free cloth

or a cotton swab
dipped in rubbing
alcohol, clean all
moving parts.

4 Inser t the ball back into

the mouse, making
sure to turn the ring
clockwise.

Note: If you are left-handed, please refer to
your Windows Me manual for instructions on
how to set up your mouse for left

-handed use.

6

The Keyboard

The way keys are used varies from program to program. Here
are some of the most common uses:

No. Component Function

1Function keys

- F12)

(F1

2 Caps Lock Locks the capital letters in

3 Windows logo key

4 Application key

5 Cursor Arrow keys Move the cursor in the

Numbered F1 through F12,
each will perform a specific

-defined function,

and well
should an application use
them.

place. Pressing it again will
take the Caps Lock off. (A
Caps Lock indicator light
will turn on when the Caps
Lock is on.)

Brings up the Windows
Start menu.

Displays drop
from icons (same as right
click) and currently active
applications.

directions that the arrows
point.

-down menus

No. Component Function

7

6Palm rest

(detachable)

7 Num Lock When the Num Lock/Num

8 Scroll Lock When activated, the screen

9Volume control/

Mute knob

10 Audio controls

Provides a comfortable
place to rest your hands
while typing.

Pad key is on, the keys on
the numeric key pad can be
used for entering numbers.
When it’s off, these keys
become arrow keys, page up
and page down keys as
indicated on the bottom
half of the key.

moves one line up or down
when you press the up
arrow or down arrow
respectively. Take note that
Scroll Lock may not work
with some applications.

Controls the speaker
volume. Press to mute.

Controls audio playback.

Play/Pause starts
playing the audio or video
file. Press again to pause.

Stop stops playing the
audio or video file.

Forward skips forward
to the next file and start
playing.

Backward skips
backward to the previous
file and start playing.

8

No. Component Function

11 Internet/Suspend

keys

12 Programmable

keys

Consist of three buttons:

Email

email program

Web Connection

starts up the

.

starts up the Internet
browser.

Suspend puts your

computer into sleep
mode.

Launches assigned
programs.

Below are other keyboard keys which can help you
perform your tasks:

• Esc key. Exits the current action, screen, or program.

• Tab key. Moves the cursor over a set number of

spaces in word processing software. In other types
of programs, it moves the cursor from one field (an
area on the screen where data can be entered) to the
next.

• Enter key. Starts a new paragraph in word
processing. In other programs, it accepts data
entered or shows that an action is complete.

• Shift key. Pressing this key while typing a letter or
symbol key will give you the capital letter or symbol
on the top of the key.

• Insert key. When activated, inserts data vs. typing
over/replacing it.

• Delete key. Will delete data that is highlighted or to
the right of the cursor.

• Home key. Takes you to the beginning of a line.

• End key. Takes you to the end of a line.

• Page Up / Page Down keys. Move you up or down

a screen at a time.

• Backspace key. Is similar to the delete key above,
but it will delete one character at a time to the left of
the cursor.

• Alt and Ctrl keys. Have varying functions on their
own or when used with other keys, depending on
the software being used.

9

10

The Monitor

Connect a monitor by simply plugging the monitor cable
into the monitor/VGA port located on the back of your
computer.

Note: Refer to the manual that came with your
Aspire monitor for more information on the
monitor features.

The Speakers

Your system comes with a set of speakers. Connect it to
your system either through the front or rear audio-out/
line-out port of your computer.

Note: Please refer to the man ual that came with
your speakers for more information. For users
opting for the model E
the installation leaflet enclosed with your
speakers for installation procedures.

-21 speaker set, refer to

11

12

Drives on Your Computer

Whether it’s the software program that you bought from
your local computer store or the shopping list you just
typed up using your word processor, all information in a
computer is stored electronically.

To save (write) data or retrieve (read) data, the computer
uses a drive. There are different ways to store data, and each
different type of data storage has a specific drive.

Three different types of drives come with your Aspire
computer:

CD/DVD Drive

Acer GoTo

Drive (option)

Floppy Drive

Hard Drive

The Hard Drive

Your fixed or hard drive is located inside your computer.
This drive is typically called the C: drive in Windows.

The Floppy Drive

This drive uses removable 3.5-inch floppy disks and is called
the A: drive.

Using Your Floppy Drive

13

Floppy disks are used for putting data into your computer
or for taking it out.

1 Insert the floppy disk into the drive, as shown.

(The metal circle on the disk’s underside should
be facing down.)

2 Push it in gently until it pops into place.

3 Remove the floppy disk by pressing the eject button.

Why Disks? (Or Discs

for that matter...)

The advantage of a floppy disk
or CD is that it makes data
portable.

Practically all newly
purchased software comes in
one of these two formats.

Data is often exchanged
between computers on floppy
disks. Be aware that there is
an inherent danger of virus
infection in casual swapping
or sharing of floppy disks with
your friends and associates.
Files, applications or
programs downloaded from
the Internet also carry
possible danger.

Formatting a Floppy Diskette

A floppy disk is, basically, just a thin piece of magnetic
tape on which data can be stored electronically. Most
floppy disks are protected with a hard plastic case.

Before a floppy can be used, it must be formatted, or
made ready to accept data.

Note: Many stores sell preformatted 3.5-floppy
disks.

1 Make sure your floppy is not write-protected.

2 Insert the diskette into your floppy drive.

14

3 Click on the Start button , point to Programs, and

click on Windows Explorer.

4Point to 3.5” Floppy (A:) under My Computer.

5 Click on the right mouse button, then select Format.

Cautions: Formatting a disk removes any data that
might have been saved on that disk. Also, be sure to
keep your disks away from heat and other
magnetic items that can damage the disk and the
information on it.

Write Protecting a Floppy Diskette

When the write protect notch is open (1), data cannot be
written to (saved on) the disk. The notch must be closed (2)
for data to be written to (copied on) the disk.

Write protecting diskettes is a good way to keep them safe
from viruses, should you use them in a different computer.

The CD-ROM Drive

The CD-ROM drive uses CDs (Compact Discs) instead of
floppy disks, and it is Read Only Memory, which means that
the computer can read data from the disc, but cannot write
anything new on it. It is typically called the D: drive. On
some computers, the CD-ROM may be another drive letter.
Please refer to My Computer for the current drive letter
assignment on your Windows desktop.

The DVD-ROM Drive (option)

The DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc ­Read Only Memory) is a type of optical media. It can hold
capacities ranging from 4.7 GB to a maximum of 17 GB, and
can support access rates from 600 Kilobytes per second to

1.2 Megabytes per second. It is backward-compatible with

CD-ROMs which means that DVD players can play not
only DVD-ROMs, but CD-ROMs, CD-I discs, video CDs,
and CD-R discs as well. DVD uses MPEG-2 to compress
video data.

Using Your CD/DVD Drive

Unlike floppy disks, CD/DVD discs can be used only for
putting data into your computer. Your Aspire computer
can use two types of CD-ROM discs: audio discs and data
discs. Data CDs can hold a lot of information and very
large programs. One CD can hold more information than
is contained on 450 floppy diskettes.

1 Press the eject button to manually open or close the

CD tray.

Note: It may take up to 30 seconds for a disc to
stop spinning before the drive opens up. If you
try to run the software when you first insert the
CD (or DVD) and you get an error message like
Drive Not Ready, wait a few seconds, then try
again.

Caring for your

CDs and DVDs

A CD/DVD has two sides:

• The title side tells you
which CD/DVD it is.

• The data side stores all
the data.

Remember the following
guidelines when handling
your CDs and DVDs:

• CDs and DVDs are
fragile, so when
handling your CDs or
DVDs, hold them by
the edges to avoid
leaving smudges or
fingerprints.

• Always keep them in a
disc case when not in
use to avoid scratches
or other damage. Any
kind of dirt or damage
can affect the data on
the disc, impair the disc
lens reader on the CD
and DVD drives, or
stop the computer
from successfully
reading the disc.

• To cl ea n yo ur CD s a nd
DVDs, use a clean,
dust-free cloth and
wipe in a straight line
from the center to the
edge. Continue around
the whole disc. (DO
NOT wipe in a circle.)
You ca n a ls o
periodically clean your
CD/DVD drive to
prevent problems from
reading CDs/DVDs on
your computer.

15

16

2 To insert a CD or a DVD, place it in the tray with the

title side facing up, then press the CD eject button to
close it.

Note: Your CD/DVD drive will probably emit a
sound like that of a fan. Unless you are having other
problems with your drive, you should not be
concerned.

The CD-RW Drive (option)

The CD-RW (CD Recordable/ReWritable drive allows you to
burn CDs. It can also read CD-ROMs, video CDs, CD-R and
CD-RW. CD Recordable are write-once discs while CD
Rewritable can be rewritten.

The Acer GoTo Drive (option)

The Acer GoTo Drive is a removable drive easily accessible
from the front of your Aspire computer. You can install a
second hard disk into the Acer GoTo Drive. For more
information, see the online guide.

Your Data/Fax Modem

Your data/fax modem makes it possible for you to
communicate electronically around the globe.

Once you’ve plugged your telephone line into your Acer
computer, you can:

• Access the Internet

• Send and receive faxes

• Send and receive emails

2

2

17

Accessing the Internet

Your Aspire computer comes with the ability to link to
the Internet.

updates, send email to friends and family, book vacations,
read up on the latest blockbuster movie, and much, much
more. All you need is a phone line to hook the modem
up to, and an account with an Internet Service Provider
(ISP).

3

With the Internet you can visit Acer for

2

Requires an account with an Internet Service Provider.

3

You may be required to pay toll charges, monthly or
hourly usage fees, and other setup charges. Check with
your Internet Service Provider for details.

18

Connecting an Optional Printer

Printer Driver

Installation

To print from your Aspire, you
need a printer driver - a
program that tells your
computer what kind of
printer it is printing to.

Windows has automatic
detection for all of the more
popular printers. If your
printer is not available in
Windows Me, look in the
printer’s user guide for
instructions. Please cont act
the manufacturer of your
printer if you have problems
or questions.

1 Click on the Start

button .

2 Point to Setting, then

click on Printers.

3Double -click Add

Printer.

4 Follow the directions

on the screen, and be
sure to test the printer
when prompted.

You shoul d now be
able to print
successfully from your
Aspire.

1 Make sure your computer is completely turned off

(see page 4).

2 Connect the printer cable purchased with your printer

from the printer to the printer port on the back of your
computer.

3 Plug your printer power cable into a wall outlet or

power strip.

4 Turn on the printer.

5 Turn on the computer.

Note: For printer driver installation to go
smoothly, it is important to turn on your printer
first so Windows can recognize that a printer is
connected to the computer.

Connecting an Optional Serial Device

1 Before you proceed, make sure your computer is

completely turned off (see page 4).

2 Locate the serial port on the back of your computer.

3 Plug your serial device cable into this port.

19

20

Connecting an Optional Joystick or MIDI Device

1 Before you proceed, make sure your computer is

completely turned off (see page 4).

2 Locate the Game/MIDI port on the back of your

computer.

3 Plug your joystick or MIDI device cable into this port.

Getting the Most from your

Aspire Audio Sytem

Playing an Audio CD

Would you like to play a little music while you work? Pop
your favorite audio CD into the CD-ROM drive, wait ten
to twenty seconds and, voila! Music!

Adjusting the Volume

There are three ways you can adjust the volume on your
audio CD:

• Turn the volume knob on your keyboard to increase
or decrease the volume. Press the knob to mute.

21

• Click on the Volume icon on the task bar at the
bottom of your screen.

A volume control will pop up. Drag
the volume control lever with your
mouse until you find the level you
want.

22

• Double-click on the Volume icon to use the
electronic mixing board.

The Electronic Mixing Board

Your Aspire computer comes with an electronic mixing
board that enables the experienced audiophile to make the
most of the stereo sound system.

1Double-click on the Volume icon on the task bar at

the bottom of your screen. The Master Volume
window will open:

2 All of the options on this screen can be adjusted by

dragging the slider bars.

Note: The controls were balanced in the factory.
We recommend that you do not change these
settings unless you have some familiarity with
sound mixing.

Adding Options to

your Aspire

You can add hard drives, memory, expansion cards, and
other options to your Aspire computer. For directions on
upgrading and how to disassemble the computer chassis,
refer to the online guide.

You can find information regarding your motherboard
jumper settings by referring to the panel inside your
Aspire chassis.

Opening/Closing Your Aspire

Caution! Always turn off your computer and
unplug it before opening the case. For more
information on the complete system
shut-down, refer to “Setting up your Aspire” on
page 2.

Removing the Left Panel Cover

1 Turn off your computer and unplug all cables.

2 Place your computer on a flat, steady surface.

3 Turn the thumbscrew counterclockwise with your

fingers to release the side panel. Set the screw aside.
You will need them when replacing the side panel.

Electrostatic

Discharge

Precautions

Always observe the following
electrostatic discharge (ESD)
precautions before installing a
system component:

• ESD can cause
permanent damage to
your computer.

• Do not remove a
component from its
antistatic packaging
until you are ready to
install it.

• We ar a wr ist gro undin g
strap before handling
elect ronic
components. Wrist
grounding straps are
available at most
electronic component
stores.

• At a minimum, keep a
hand in contact with
the metal system
housing to red uce the
ESD effect.

23

24

4 Gently push the computer’s side panel slightly

backward (a), then pull it upward to remove it from
the chassis (b).

Replacing the Left Panel Cover

After you install the system components into the
housing, you must replace the left panel cover.

1 Align the side panel to the housing frame (a), gently

push it in (b), then slide it forward into place (c).

2 Use the thumbscrew you have previously removed,

turning it clockwise, to secure the side panel.

25

26

Connecting USB Devices

The Universal Serial Bus (USB) on your Aspire allows for easy
and convenient expansion options. With it, installing
devices such as digital cameras, scanners, and joysticks is a
breeze. Two USB connectors are located on the back of your
computer while another two are located inside the
multimedia port bay in front of your computer.

Note: Most USB devices have a built-in USB port
which allows you to daisy-chain other devices.

Acer is dedicated to bringing you a reliable and easy to

Need

Help?

maintain computer. We realize, though, that problems
can arise unexpectedly. Please refer to the
troubleshooting tips in this section to help diagnose and
solve your problems.

Troubleshooting - General

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions:

The Start button is not displayed on screen.

The taskbar has either been resized too small or it is in a
hidden location.

To retrieve the taskbar:

1Press the Start key on the keyboard.

2 Press the Esc key to close the Start menu.

(The taskbar is still selected.)

3 Press the Alt + Spacebar keys together and select “size.”

4 Use the Arrow keys to resize the taskbar to the desired size

and press the Enter key when done.

27

My computer will not shut off completely.

For more information, refer to “Turning off your Aspire”
on page 4.

My CD or DVD does not always work, and it does not
eject all the time.

1 Th e CD or DV D be ing use d is m ost like ly di rty or s cra tche d.

Clean the CD or DVD.

2 If cleaning the CD or DVD doesn’t correct the problem, call

Acer Technical Support.

My keyboard doesn’t work.

1 Press the Caps Lock key several times to see if the keyboard

LED light turns on and off.

2 If it does not, make sure the keyboard cable is securely

plugged into the back of your computer.

28

3 If the problem persists, call Acer Technical Support.

My modem connects, but there is no dial tone.

1 Check to see if the phone lines (in and out) are properly

connected. Sometimes the line to the phone and the line to
the wall jacks are reversed. If needed, refer to the Easy Setup
poster that came with your Aspire computer.

2 Ensure that all phones using this line have been hung up.

My modem does not work.

1 Ensure that the line from the wall jack is plugged into the jack

on the back of the computer labeled Line or Wall.

2 Ensure that the line from the wall jack to the computer is

tightly plugged in on each end.

3 If the modem still doesn’t work, disconnect any phones or

other equipment that may be on the same line.

4 If the modem still doesn’t work, temporarily disable any

special services on the line, such as call waiting.

My monitor remains dark when system is turned on

1 Make sure that the monitor power indicator is lit.

2 Check brightness and contrast settings.

3 If the problem still persists, ensure that the monitor is plugged

in and the cable from the monitor to the computer is securely
attached.

My monitor will not turn on.

1 If the monitor Power button light is not lit, verify that the

monitor is plugged in to a power source.

2 If the monitor Power button light is lit, but is blinking instead

of steady, verify that the monitor video cable is fully
connected to the computer. If needed, refer to the Easy Setup
poster.

3 If the computer Power button light is blinking, press it once.

4 If necessary, unplug the computer and monitor, then inspect

the monitor cable connector for bent or broken pins.

My mouse movement is erratic.

Clean your mouse:

1 Turn the mouse upside down.

2 Remove the ring holding the ball in place by turning it

counterclockwise.

3Use a lint-free cloth or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing

alcohol to clean all moving parts.

4 Insert the ball back into the mouse and replace the ring,

making sure to turn the ring clockwise until it is securely
back in place.

My sound is bad or uneven or my system has no
sound.

1 Turn up the volume on the keyboard control.

2 In Windows, double-click on the Volume icon

(located near the clock in the taskbar) to verify that the
volume control is up and mute is not turned on, or use the
volume knob on your keyboard.

My system freezes.

If your system hangs up, or freezes for some reason, you
can reboot (restart) the computer by pressing the
Ctrl + Alt + Del keys simultaneously. Follow the onscreen
instructions.

If this does not successfully restart the system, you have
another option:

1 Push the Power button on your computer, holding it in for

approximately four seconds or until your screen goes dark.
This will completely turn off your computer.

2 Push the Power button again to turn the computer back

on.

29

Note: Whenever you reboot your system, you
will lose any unsaved data.

My floppy drive won’t read my disk.

1 Eject the disk from the floppy drive, then reinser t it and try

again.

2 Verify that the disk is correctly formatted. You will lose any

data on this disk if you format it.

3 Verify that the problem is the disk, not the drive, by

checking another floppy that you know is valid.

30

Troubleshooting - Error Messages

I keep getting one of the following error messages:

Equipment Configuration Error

This error occurs when the CMOS settings have been
changed to a configuration that prevents successful
boot-up. Press the Ctrl + Alt + Esc keys, after the beep
during the boot process, then select Restore Default Settings
to restore the original CMOS values.

CMOS Battery Error

Call Acer Technical Support.

CMOS Checksum Error

Press the Ctrl + Alt + Esc keys, after the beep during the
boot process, then select Restore Default Settings to restore
the original CMOS values. If the error message continues,
call Acer Technical Support.

Diskette Drive Controller Error or Not Installed

Call Acer Technical Support.

Diskette Drive Error

Diskette may be defective. Verify with a known good
diskette.

Diskette Drive A: Type Mismatch

Press the Ctrl + Alt + Esc keys, after the beep during the
boot process, then select Restore Default Settings.

Hard disk Controller Error

Call Acer Technical Support.

Hard disk 0 Error

Call Acer Technical Support.

Hard disk 1 Error

Call Acer Technical Support.

Keyboard Error, No Keyboard Connected or Keyboard
Interface Error

Check that the keyboard is securely plugged into the
correct port on the back of the computer.

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32

Additional Acer Services

About the Aspire Web Site

The Acer Internet site http://www.acer.com/ 1 has answers
for the most frequently asked support questions and offers a
searchable database of extensive technical information, new
product data and upgrade information. Use it:

• When you can’t find the information you need in your
manual or online help, and before you call Technical
Support.

• When you want to find upgrade information or bug
fixes.

• When you’re curious about Acer!

Acer Technical Support

During the warranty period, should you have a problem
with your system or if you think something isn’t working,
contact Acer Technical Support at
http://www.acersupport.com/
provides help for warranty related issues, such as a hardware
problem.

. Acer Technical Support

Before you contact Acer, please take a few minutes to write
down a description of the problem. This will help us provide
you with better quality support.

1

Requires an account with an Internet Service Provider.

Notices

Disclaimer of Warranties

Acer makes no representation 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. Any software described in this manual is
sold or licensed “as is.“ Should the programs prove defective
following their purchase, the buyer (and not this company, its
distributor or its dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary
servicing, repair, and any incidental or consequential damages
resulting from any defect in the software. Further, Acer reserves
the right to revise this publication and to make changes from
time to time in the contents hereof without obligation to notify
any person of such revision or changes.

Disclaimer

Not all features described in this handbook will be available on
all models. Acer is continually updating its products to meet
customer needs and hardware and software specifications may
vary from time to time. Please refer to your box label for the
specifications for your particular system.

33

Join Us to Fight Against Piracy

The Acer Group has been implementing a policy to respect and
protect legitimate intellectual property rights. Acer firmly
believes that only when each and every one of us abides by such
policy can this industry provide quality service to the general
public. Acer has become a member of the Technology
Committee of the Pacific Basin Economic Council, which is
encouraging the protection and enforcement of legitimate
intellectual property rights worldwide. Moreover, in order to
ensure quality service to all our customers, Acer includes an
operating system in Acer computer systems which is duly
licensed by the legitimate proprietors and produced with quality.
Acer commits itself and urges all its customers to join the fight
against intellectual property piracy wherever it may occur. Acer
will pursue the enforcement of intellectual property rights and
strive to fight against piracy.

34

Standard End User License Agreement

THIS END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT SHALL APPLY IN THE
ABSENCE OF A SEPARATE LICENSE AGREEMENT FROM THE
SOFTWARE PUBLISHER. OTHERWISE, THE SEPARATE LICENSE
FROM THE PUBLISHER WILL APPLY.

NOTE TO END USER: CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING LEGAL
AGREEMENT. USE OF THE SOFTWARE SUITES PROVIDED WITH
YOUR ACER COMPUTER OR OTHER SOFTWARE PRELOADED
WITH YOUR ACER COMPUTER (THE “SOFTWARE“) WILL
CONSTITUTE YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS (UNLESS
SEPARATE TERMS ARE PROVIDED BY THE SOFTWARE PUBLISHER,
IN WHICH CASE THOSE TERMS WILL APPLY). IF YOU DO NOT
AGREE WITH THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT, PROMPTLY
RETURN THE SOFTWARE PACKAGE OR THE SOFTWARE
UNOPENED TO THE LOCATION WHERE YOU OBTAINED THEM.

1 License Grant. The Publisher of each of the Software (the

“Software Publisher”) grants to you a personal,
non-transferable and non-exclusive right to use the copy of
the Software provided with this license. You agree you will
not copy the Soft ware excep t as ne cessary to use in on a si ngle
computer system at one location. You agree that you may not
copy the written materials accompanying the Software.
Modifying, translating, renting, copying, transferring or
assigning all or part of the Software, or any rights granted
hereunder, to any other p ersons and removing any propri etary
notices, labels or marks from the Software is strictly
prohibited. Futhermore, you hereby agree not to create
derivative works based on the Software.

2 Copyright. You acknowledge that no title to the intellectual

property in the Software is transferred to you. You further
acknowledge that title and full ownership rights to the
Software will remain the exclusive property of the Software
Publisher or its suppliers, and you will not acquire any rights
to the Software except as expressly set forth above. All copies
of the Software will contain the same proprietary notices as
contained in or on the Software.

3 Reverse Engineering. You agree that you will not attempt,

and if you are a corporation, you will use your best efforts to
prevent your employees and contractors from attempting, to
reverse compile, modify, translate or disassemble the Software
in whole or in part. Any failure to comply with the above or
any other terms and conditions contained herein will result in
the automatic termination of this license and the reversion of
the rights granted hereunder to the Software Publisher.

4 Customer Remedies. The Software Publisher’s entire

liability and your only remedy shall be, at the Software
Publishers’ option, to (a) attempt to correct the errors
believed to be causing the defect, (b) replace the Software
with functionally equivalent software or (c) refund the
purchase price of the Software; provided however, that you
must return all copies of the Software and accompanying
documentation.

5 No Liability for Consequential Damages. IN NO EVENT

SHALL SOFTWARE PUBLISHER OR ACER BE LIABLE TO
YOU FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL , SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL
OR INDIRECT DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARISING OUT OF
THE USE OF THE SOFT WARE E VEN IF THE POSSIBILITY OF
SUCH DAMAGES HAVE BEEN ADVISED.

Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusions of implied
warranties of limitations on how long an implied
warranties may last, or the exclusion or limitation of
incidenta l or consequenti al damages, so such limitat ions or
exclusions may not apply to you. This Limited Warranty
gives you specific rights and you may also have other rights
which vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

6 Restricted Rights Legend. In the case where the Software

is license to a U.S. Government agency, you agree that the
Software is commercial computer software and, together
with related materials, are subject to the restrictions on
U.S . Go ver nmen t us e, d upl icat ion s or disc los ure a s se t fo rth
in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data
and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013,
subparagraph (g)(3)(i) of FAR 52.227-14, Alternate III, or
other applicable regulations concerning Restricted Rights.

7 Miscellaneous. You agree not to export or

re-export the Software without the appropriate United
States or foreign government licenses. This Agreement will
be governed by the laws of the state of California, as they
apply to agreements between California residents, without
giving effect to choice of law provisions. This is the entire
agreement and supersedes any prior agreement, whether
written or oral, relating to the subject matter of this
Agreement.

35

36

System Warranty Information

For Limited Product Warranty information, please refer to the
following pages.

The Acer warranty does not cover the following

• Acer products purchased from any source other than Acer or
its authorized resellers

• All software and hardware not factory pre-installed

• Questions regarding all software, including factory

pre-installed software

• Online services, including the Internet

• Damage from misuse, abuse, or neglect

• Coverage for anyone who purchases, leases, or otherwise

obtains an Acer computer from the original owner

• Improper installation or use of third-party hardware products

• Modification of the Acer computer

• Product that requires periodic replacement, such as notebook

batteries, etc.

• Damage or loss of any programs, data, or removable storage
media

• Any consequential damages including lost profits or business

Limited Product Warranty

Acer, in an effort to provide computers of the highest quality and
reliability, subjects all its computers and components to extensive
testing and inspection procedures. Acer’s manufacturing facilities
have been certified to ISO
Before a component can be eligible for installation in an Acer
computer offered for sale, it must first pass stringent quality,
inspection and testing procedures. Be assured that this Product and
its components have met Acer’s highest quality, testing and
inspection procedures for new products and are fully backed by
Acer’s limited warranty.

A. Acer Limited Warranty

Acer warrants the Product you have purchased from Acer or from
an Acer Authorized Reseller to be free from defects in materials or
workmanship under normal use during the warranty period
applicable to the Product. The warranty period commences on the
date of purchase. Your original purchase invoice (sales receipt),
showing the date of purchase of the Product, is your proof of the
date of purchase. This warranty extends only to you, the original
Purchaser. It is not transferable to anyone who subsequently

-9000 international quality standards.

purchases, leases or otherwise obtains the Product from you. It
excludes expendable parts.

During the warranty period, Acer will, at no additional charge,
repai r or repl ace defe ctive h ardware w ith fac tory-re finish ed part s
or products. All exchanged parts and Products replaced under
this warranty will become the property of Acer.

In the event the Product exhibits a defect in material or
workmanship within the warranty period, Acer will provide the
warranty services applicable to the Product.

B. Registration

To register, please call the available customer technical support
center in your country. Refer to Shop Acer for a complete list of
contact information.

If your product comes with a warranty registration card, please
refer to the instructions on the card.

C. Warranty Limitation; Exclusions; Exclusive Remedies

This Limited Warranty does not extend to any Product not
purchased from Acer or from an Acer Authorized Reseller. The
product (“Product“) you have purchased may include one or
more components previously installed in a product that was
returned after sale and possible use. This Limited Warranty also
does not extend to any Product that has been damaged or
rendered defective (a) as a result of use of the Product other than
for its normal intended use, failure to use the Product in
accordance with the User’s Manual that accompanies the
Product, or other misuse, abuse or negligence to the Product; (b)
by the use of parts not manufactured or sold by Acer; (c) by
modification of the Product; (d) as a result of service by anyone
other than Acer or an Acer Authorized Service Provider; or (e)
improper transportation or packing when returning the Product
to Acer or an Acer Authorized Service Provider; (f ) improper
installation of third-party products (e.g. memory cards).

This Limited Warranty does not extend to expendable parts.
Expendable parts are those items that during the normal course
of product usage will require periodic replacement, e.g., printer
cartridges, notebook batteries, etc.

Add-on Components (HDD, CD-ROM, Sound Cards, etc.)
purchased from Acer and not installed in an Acer system are
covered by a limited warranty as defined on the Warranty Card
which comes with the component. For components purchased
from Acer or an Acer Authorized Reseller and installed in an Acer
system which are defined as “Supported“ on Acer’s Qualified
Vendor List, Acer will provide warranty technical support and

37

38

part replacement service for the duration of the system warranty.
The warranty service provided on these supported components will
be equal to the warranty service in effect on the system on which
the components are installed. Proof of purchase from Acer for all
components is required. You may verify what components are
defined as “Supported“ on the Acer Qualified Vendor List by
contacting your Acer Authorized Reseller or Distributor or by
calling Acer Technical Support.

Acer is not responsible for damage to or loss of any programs, data
or removable storage media. You are responsible for saving (backing
up) any programs, data or removable storage media.

EXCEPT FOR THE WARRANTIES SET FORTH HEREIN, ACER
DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED
OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT MAY
BE IMPOSED BY APPLICABLE LAW ARE LIMITED TO THE TERMS
OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. IN NO EVENT SHALL ACER BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF
BUSINESS, PROFITS, DATA OR USE, WHETHER IN AN ACTION IN
CONTRACT OR TORT OR BASED ON A WARRANTY, ARISING
OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OR PERFORMANCE
OF THE PRODUCT OR ANY ACER-SUPPLIED SOFTWARE THAT
ACCOMPANIES THE PRODUCT, EVEN IF ACER HAS BEEN ADVISED
OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. YOU AGREE THAT
REPAIR, REPLACEMENT OR REFUND, AS APPLICABLE, UNDER THE
WARRANTY SERVICES DESCRIBED HEREIN IS YOUR SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY WITH RESPECT TO ANY BREACH OF THE
ACER LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH HEREIN.

FCC Statement

FCC Class B Radio Frequency Interference
Statement

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try
to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

1 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

2 Increase the separation between the equipment and

receiver.

3 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different

from that to which the receiver is connected.

4 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television

technician for help.

Notice 1:

The changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate the equipment.

Notice 2:

Shielded interface cables, if any, must be used in order to comply
with the emission limits.

39

Fax/Modem and FCC Compliance

This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC Rules. On this
equipment is a label that contains, among other information, the
FCC registration number for this equipment. You must, upon
request, provide this information along with the Ringer
Equivalence Number (REN) of 0.8, to your telephone company.

40

If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone
network, the Telephone Company may discontinue your service
temporarily. If possible, they will notify in advance. But, if advance
notice isn’t practical, you will be notified as soon as possible. You
will be informed of your right to file a complaint with the FCC.

Your telephone company may make changes in its facilities,
equipment, operations, or procedures that could affect proper
operation of your equipment. If they do, you will be notified in
advance to give you an opportunity to maintain uninterrupted
telephone service.

The FCC prohibits this equipment to be connected to party lines or
coin-telephone service.

In the event that this equipment should fail to operate properly,
disconnect the equipment from the phone line to determine if it is
causing the problem. If the problem is with the equipment,
discontinue use and contact your dealer or vendor.

The FCC also requires the transmitter of a FAX transmission be
properly identified (per FCC Rules Part 68, Sec. 68.381 (c) (3)).

Acer Year 2000 Compliance Statement

This product is Year 2000-compliant and carries the “NSTL
Hardware Tested Year 2000 Compliant” logo. This product has
been tested both by Acer’s internal test labs and NSTL using
NSTL’s YMARK2000 certification test. These tests certify that the
product will successfully make the year 2000 transition.

41

For more details, check the Acer Year 2000 Resource Center at
http://global.acer.com/service/pcy2000.html

.

CD and DVD Drive Safety Warning

DANGER Invisible radiation when open. Avoid exposure to
beam.

VORSICHT Unsichtabre laserstrahlung wenn geöffnet. Nicht in
den strahl sehen.

AT TEN TI ON Radiation du faisceau laser invisible. En cas
d’ouverture. Eviter toute exposition aux rayons.

VAR O Avattaessa olet alttiina näkzmättömälle lasersäteilylle älä
katso säteeseen.

VAR NI NG ! Osynling lasersträlning när denna del är öppnad.
Stirra ej in i strälen.

ADVARSEL Lasersträling ved äbning. Se ikke ind i strälen.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1

LASER KLASSE 1

LOUKAN 1 LASERLAITE

PRODUIT LASER

CATEGORIE 1

42

Caution on Lithium Batteries

CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by
the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.

ADVARSEL! Lithiumbatteri-Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig
håndtering. Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat
og type. Léver det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren.

ADVARSEL Eksplosjonsfare ved feilaktig skifte av batteri. Benytt
samme batteritype eller en tilsvarende type anbefalt av
apparatfabrikanten. Brukte batterier kasseres i henhold til
fabrikantens instruksjoner.

VAR NI NG Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte. Anvãnd samma
batterityp eller en ekvivalent typ som rekommenderas av
apparattillverkaren. Kassera anv‹nt batteri enligt fabrikantens
instruktion.

VAR OI TU S Päristo voi räjähtää, jos se on virheellisesti asennettu.
Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppiin.
Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.

VORSICHT! Explosionsgefahr bei unsachgemäßen Austausch der
Batterie Ersatz nur durch denselben oder einem vom Hersteller
empfohlenem Šhnlichen Typ. Entsorgung gebrauchter Batterien
nach Angaben des Herstellers.