Acer Aspire S3-951 User Manual
Acer Aspire S3 Series
User's Manual
© 2011 All Rights Reserved.
Acer Aspire S3 Series User's Manual
Original Issue: 02/2012
Model number:
Serial number:
Date of purchase:
Place of purchase:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety and comfort 5
First things first 16
Your guides ...................................................... 16
Basic care and tips for using your
computer.......................................................... 16
Turning your computer on and off ............ 16
Taking care of your computer................... 17
Taking care of your AC adapter................ 18
Cleaning and servicing ............................. 18
Your Acer notebook tour 19
Top view........................................................... 20
Rear view ......................................................... 22
Left view........................................................... 23
Right view ........................................................ 23
Base view ......................................................... 24
Touchpad 25
Touchpad basics.............................................. 25
Using the keyboard 27
Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad ..... 27
Hotkeys..................................................... 28
Windows keys .................................................. 30
Recovery 31
Acer eRecovery Management .......................... 31
Creating recovery discs ............................ 32
Recovering your system .................................. 36
Types of recovery ..................................... 37
Acer clear.fi 44
Media content types ........................................ 44
DMS (Digital Media Server) devices................. 44
Display media content ............................. 45
Send media content ................................. 45
Search media ........................................... 46
Block and unblock devices ...................... 46
Media sharing settings .................................... 46
Power management 47
Acer Green Instant On ............................. 47
Battery pack 48
Battery pack characteristics ............................ 48
Charging the battery ................................ 48
Optimizing battery life .............................. 50
Checking the battery level ....................... 51
Battery-low warning ................................. 51
Traveling with your computer 52
Disconnecting from the desktop..................... 52
Moving around ................................................ 52
Preparing the computer ........................... 53
What to bring to meetings ....................... 53
Taking the computer home ............................. 54
Preparing the computer ........................... 54
What to take with you .............................. 54
Special considerations ............................. 55
Setting up a home office .......................... 55
Traveling with the computer............................ 56
Preparing the computer ........................... 56
What to take with you .............................. 56
Special considerations ............................. 56
Traveling internationally with the computer .... 56
Preparing the computer ........................... 57
What to bring with you ............................. 57
Special considerations ............................. 57
Table of contents - 3
Securing your computer 58
Using passwords ............................................. 58
Entering passwords .................................. 59
Wireless networks 60
Connecting to the Internet ............................... 60
Acer Instant Connect ................................ 60
Wireless networks ............................................ 60
HDMI 62
Universal Serial Bus (USB) 63
BIOS utility 64
Boot sequence ................................................. 64
Enable disk-to-disk recovery .......................... 64
Setting passwords........................................... 64
Frequently asked questions 65
Requesting service .......................................... 68
Troubleshooting .............................................. 70
Troubleshooting tips ................................ 70
Error messages ........................................ 70
Regulations and safety notices 72
4 - Table of contents
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.
ARNINGS
W
Accessing the power cord
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.
Disconnecting the power source
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.
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.
Safety and comfort - 5
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 nongrounded 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.
The system can be powered using a wide range of voltages; 100 to 120 or 220 to
240 V AC. The power cord included with the system meets the requirements for use
in the country/region where the system was purchased. Power cords for use in other
countries/regions must meet the requirements for that country/region. For more
information on power cord requirements, contact an authorized reseller or service
provider.
Protecting your hearing
Warning: Permanent hearing loss may occur if earphones or
headphones are used at high volume for prolonged periods of time.
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.
6 - Safety and comfort
Do not increase the volume to block out noisy surroundings.
Decrease the volume if you can't hear people speaking near you.
Bundled dummy cards
Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer.
Your computer shipped with plastic dummies installed in the card slots. Dummies protect
unused slots from dust, metal objects or other particles. Save the dummies for use when
no cards are in the slots.
General
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.
The bottom surface, areas around ventilation openings and AC adapter may get hot.
To avoid injury, ensure they do not come in contact with your skin or body.
Your device and its enhancements may contain small parts. Keep them out of the
reach of small children.
Safety and comfort - 7
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.
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.
Guidelines for safe battery usage
This computer uses a Lithium-ion or Lithium-polymer battery. Do not use it in a humid, wet
or corrosive environment. Do not put, store or leave your product in or near a heat source,
in a high temperature location, in strong direct sunlight, in a microwave oven or in a
pressurized container, and do not expose it to temperatures over 60° C (140° F). Failure
to follow these guidelines may cause the battery to leak acid, become hot, explode or
ignite and cause injury and/or damage.
Do not pierce, open or disassemble the computer or battery. If the battery leaks and you
come into contact with the leaked fluids, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical
attention immediately.
For safety reasons, and to prolong the lifetime of the battery, charging will not occur at
temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 40° C (104° F).
8 - Safety and comfort
The full performance of a new battery is achieved only after two or three complete charge
and discharge cycles. The battery can be charged and discharged hundreds of times, but
it will eventually wear out. When the operation time becomes noticeably shorter than
normal, refer to qualified service personnel. Use only the approved batteries, and
recharge your battery only with the approved chargers designated for this device.
The capacity and lifetime of the battery will be reduced if the computer is left in hot or
cold places, such as in a closed car in summer or winter. Always try to keep the computer
between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). A device with a hot or cold battery may not
work temporarily, even when the battery is fully charged. Battery performance is
especially limited in temperatures well below freezing.
Do not dispose of batteries in a fire as they may explode. Batteries may also explode if
damaged. Dispose of batteries according to local regulations. Please recycle when
possible. Do not dispose as household waste.
Wireless devices may be susceptible to interference from the battery, which could affect
performance.
Note: Please refer to www.acer.com for battery shipping documents.
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.
R
ADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE
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 inch) away from your body. It should not contain metal and you should
position the device the above-stated distance from your body. To successfully transmit
Safety and comfort - 9
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.
M
EDICAL 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.
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 on.
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.
V
EHICLES
RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded electronic systems in
motor vehicles such as electronic fuel injection systems, electronic anti-skid (anti-lock)
braking systems, electronic speed control systems, and air bag systems. For more
10 - Safety and comfort
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.
P
OTENTIALLY 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. Do not switch the computer on when wireless phone use
is prohibited or when it may cause interference or danger.
Safety and comfort - 11
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.
D
ISPOSAL 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 www.acer-group.com/
public/Sustainability/sustainability01.htm
ENERGY STAR
Acer's ENERGY STAR qualified products save your money by reducing
energy cost and protecting the environment without sacrificing features
or performance. Acer is proud to offer our customers products with the
ENERGY STAR mark.
What is ENERGY STAR?
Products that are ENERGY STAR qualified use less energy and prevent greenhouse gas
emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. Acer is committed to offering products and services worldwide that
help customers save money, conserve energy and improve the quality of our
environment. The more energy we can save through higher energy efficiency, the more
we reduce greenhouse gases and the risks of climate change. More information refers to
www.energystar.gov or www.energystar.gov/powermanagement.
Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer.
Acer ENERGY STAR qualified products:
produce less heat and reduce cooling loads in warmer climates.
automatically go into "display Sleep" and "computer Sleep" mode after 10 and 30
minutes of inactivity, respectively.
12 - Safety and comfort
wake from "Sleep" mode if the keyboard is pressed or mouse is moved.
save more than 80% energy when in "Sleep" mode.
ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered U.S. marks.
IPS AND INFORMATION FOR COMFORTABLE USE
T
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.
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.
Safety and comfort - 13
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,
14 - Safety and comfort
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 for extended periods of time.
Developing good work habits
The following work habits make 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 b reaks re gularly, and do so me
stretching exercises.
Note: For more information, please refer to "Regulations and safety notices" on
page 72.
Safety and comfort - 15
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 setup poster helps you get started with setting up your
computer.
The Quick 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 Aspire User’s Manual. This guide
contains detailed information on such subjects as system utilities, data
recovery, expansion options and troubleshooting. In addition it contains
general regulations and safety notices for your notebook. It is available
from your computer desktop; simply double-click the Acer User’s
Manual icon.
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.
Please refer to the setup poster for the location of the power button.
To turn the power off, do any of the following:
16 - First things first
• Use the Windows shutdown command: click Start then Click Shut
Down.
• Use the power button.
• You can also put the computer in Sleep mode 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 0º C (32º F) or
above 50º C (122º F).
• 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.
First things first - 17
• 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.
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 65.
18 - First things first
YOUR ACER NOTEBOOK TOUR
After setting up your computer as illustrated in the setup poster, let us
show you around your new Acer computer.
Acer Aspire S3 Series
Your Acer notebook tour - 19
Top v i e w
20 - Your Acer notebook tour
# Icon Item Description
1 Display screen Displays computer output.
2
3 Microphone
Power button Turns the computer on and off.
Internal microphone for sound
r
ecording.
For entering data into your computer.
4 Keyboard
Caution: Do not use a keybo
protector or similar cover as the
ard
keyboard design includes ventilation
intakes for cooling.
Touch-sensitive pointing device.
• The touchpad and selection buttons
form a single surface.
5 Touchpad
Press down firmly on the touchpad
surface to perform a left click.
Press down firmly on the lower right
corner to perform a right click.
Power indicator Indicates the computer’s power status.
6
Battery indicator
Indicates battery status.
Charging:
The light is amber when the
battery is charging.
Fully charged: T
he light is blue.
7 Webcam Web camera for video communication.
Your Acer notebook tour - 21
Rear view
# Icon Item Description
1
2
3
Note: Small holes on the rear of the computer are part of the antenna
assembly. Do not insert any object into the holes.
22 - Your Acer notebook tour
DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter.
HDMI port
USB 2.0 ports
Supports high-definition digital video
co
nnections.
Connects to USB 2.0 devices (e.g.,
U
SB mouse, USB camera).
Left view
# Icon Item Description
1
Headset/speaker
jack
Connects to audio devices (e.g.,
speakers, head
with microphone.
Right view
# Icon Item Description
Accepts one Secure Digital (SD or
SDHC) car
1
2-in-1 card reader
(MMC).
Note: T
pull it from the slot.
o remove the card, simply
phones) or a headset
d or one MultiMediaCard
Your Acer notebook tour - 23
Base view
# Icon Item Description
Insert a paperclip into the hole and
1
2 Speakers Deliver stereo audio output.
Battery reset
pinhole
pr
ess for four seconds to reset the
computer (simulates removing and
reinstalling the battery).
24 - Your Acer notebook tour
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