Acer ASPIRE V5-531, ASPIRE V5-531G, ASPIRE V5-571G, ASPIRE V5-571, ASPIRE V5-171 User Manual

Aspire V5-1 Series

User Guide

© 2012 All Rights Reserved

Aspire V5-1 Series User Guide
This revision: 04/2012

Model number: ___________________________

Serial number: ___________________________

Date of purchase: ________________________

Place of purchase: _______________________

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.

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.

iii

CAUTION for bundled dummy cards (only for certain models)

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.

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.

• 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.

Note: Reduce the risk of heat-induced inju ry or fire by adhering to the
following:

1) Do not place the computer or AC adapter on a soft surface, such
as a bed.

2) Do not rest the computer or AC adapter on your lap for extended
periods.

3) Use the computer on a flat, hard surface, such as a desk.

4) Ensure that the ventilation is not obstructed.

• Your device and its enhancements may contain small parts. Keep them out of

the reach of children.

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.

• 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.

v

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.

vi

Guidelines for safe battery usage

This notebook uses a Lithium-ion 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 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).

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, buy a new battery.
Use only the approved batteries, and recharge your battery only with the approved
chargers designated for this device.

Use the battery only for its intended purpose. Never use any charger or battery that
is damaged. Do not short-circuit the battery. Accidental short-circuiting can occur
when a metallic object such as a coin, clip or pen causes direct connection of the
positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the battery. (These look like metal strips on
the battery.) This might happen, for example, when you carry a spare battery in your
pocket or purse. Short-circuiting the terminals may damage the battery or the
connecting object.

The capacity and lifetime of the battery will be reduced if the battery is left in hot or
cold places, such as in a closed car in summer or winter. Always try to keep the
battery 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.

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.

vii

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. 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.

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.

viii

Vehicles

RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded electronic
systems in motor vehicles such as electronic fuel injection systems, electronic anti­skid (anti-lock) 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. Do not switch the notebook on when wireless phone use is prohibited or
when it may cause interference or danger.

Emergency calls

Warn ing: 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
www.acer-group.com/public/Sustainability/sustainability01.htm.

Mercury advisory

For bulb-inside projectors or electronic products containing a non-LED­backlit-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. For lamp-specific disposal information, check
www.lamprecycle.org.

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.

Acer ENERGY STAR qualified products: (only for certain models)

• Produce less heat and reduce cooling loads, and warmer climates.

• Automatically go into "display sleep" and "computer sleep" mode after
10 and 30 minutes of inactivity respectively.

• Wake the computer from sleep mode by pushing keyboard or moving
mouse.

• Computers will save more than 80% energy at "sleep" mode.

ENERGY STAR is only available for certain models and have the ENERGY STAR
certification mark on the palm rest.

ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered U.S. marks

ix

x

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.

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 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.

xi

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.

Note: For more information, please refer to "Regulations and safety
notices" on page 40.

English

xii

First things first

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

Product Registration

When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that you
immediately register it. This will give you access to some useful benefits, such as:

• Faster service from our trained representatives

• Membership in the Acer community: receive promotions and participate in

customer surveys

• The latest news from Acer

Hurry and register, as other advantages await you!

How to Register

During the initial startup of your notebook or desktop, a window will invite you to
register. Please fill in the mandatory fields and click Next. The second window you'll
see contains optional fields that will help us to provide you with a more personable
customer service experience.

Another Option

Another way to register your Acer product is to visit our website at
http://registration.acer.com. Choose your country and follow the simple
instructions.

After we receive your product registration, you will be sent a confirmation email with
important data that you should keep in a safe place.

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 Aspire V5-1 Series User Guide contains useful information applying to all
models in the Aspire V5-1 product range. It covers basic topics such as Acer
eRecovery Management, using the keyboard, audio, etc. Please understand that
due to its nature, the User Guide as well as the AcerSystem User Guide will
occasionally refer to functions or features which are only contained in certain
models, but not necessarily in the model you have purchased. Such instances are
marked in the text with language such as "only for certain models".

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 AcerSystem User Guide, which contains detailed information
on such subjects as system utilities, data recovery, expansion options and

xiii

English

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:

1Click Start > All Programs > AcerSystem.

2Click AcerSystem User Guide.

Note: Viewing the file requires Adobe Reader. If Adobe Reader is not
installed on your computer, clicking on AcerSystem User 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. Please refer to the Quick Guide for the location of the power button.

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

• 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 0ºC (32ºF) or above 50ºC

(122ºF).

• 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.

English

xiv

• 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.

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 37.

Information for your safety and comfort iii

Safety instructions iii
Operating environment vii
Medical devices vii
Vehicles viii
Potentially explosive environments viii
Emergency calls viii
Disposal instructions ix

Mercury advisory ix
ENERGY STAR ix

Tips and information for comfortable use x

First things first xii

Product Registration xii

How to Register xii

Another Option xii
Your guides xii
Basic care and tips for using your computer xiii

Turning your computer on and off xiii

Taking care of your computer xiii

Taking care of your AC adapter xiv

Taking care of your battery pack xiv

Cleaning and servicing xiv

Acer eRecovery Management 1

Creating a recovery backup (Optical drive) 2
Creating a recovery backup (USB flash drive) 4

Recovering your system (Optical drive) 6

To recover your system 6
Types of recovery 6

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers 6

Returning to a previous system condition 7

Returning your system to its factory condition 8

Recovering your system (USB flash drive) 10

To recover your system 10
Types of recovery 10

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers 10

Returning to a previous system condition 11

Returning your system to its factory condition 12

Acer clear.fi 14

Navigating media and photos 14

Shared files 14

Which devices are compatible? 15

Playing to another device 15

Contents

Acer Backup Manager 16
Touchpad 18

Touchpad basics (for models with separate buttons) 18
Touchpad basics (for models with integrated buttons) 19

Using the keyboard 21

Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad 21
Windows keys 22
Special keys (only for certain models) 23

Battery pack 24

Battery pack characteristics 24

Maximizing the battery’s life 24
Installing and removing the battery pack 25
Charging the battery 25
Checking the battery level 26
Optimizing battery life 26
Battery-low warning 26

Taking your notebook PC with you 28

Disconnecting from the desktop 28
Moving around 28

Preparing the computer 28

What to bring to meetings 29
Taking the computer home 29

Preparing the computer 29

What to take with you 29

Special considerations 29

Setting up a home office 30
Traveling with the computer 30

Preparing the computer 30

What to take with you 30

Special considerations 30
Traveling internationally with the computer 30

Preparing the computer 31

What to take with you 31

Special considerations 31

Securing your computer 31

Using a computer security lock 31
Using passwords 32

Entering passwords 32

Setting passwords 32

Expanding through options 33

Connectivity options 33

Built-in network feature 33

Universal Serial Bus (USB) 34

BIOS utility 34

Boot sequence 34
Enable disk-to-disk recovery 34
Password 35

Power management 35
Troubleshooting 36

Troubleshooting tips 36
Error messages 36

Frequently asked questions 37

Requesting service 39

Before you call 39

Regulations and safety notices 40

FCC notice 40
LCD pixel statement 41
Radio device regulatory notice 41
General 41
European Union (EU) 42
The FCC RF safety requirement 42
Canada — Low-power license-exempt
radio communication devices (RSS-210) 44
LCD panel ergonomic specifications 44

English

Acer eRecovery Management

If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods,
you may need to reinstall the Windows operating system and factory-loaded
software and drivers. To ensure you can recover your computer when needed, you
should create a recovery backup as soon as possible.

Note: The following content is for general reference only. Actual
product specifications may vary.

Acer eRecovery Management consists of the following functions:

1Backup:

• Create Factory Default Backup

• Create Drivers and Applications Backup

Note: Models that do not have a built-in ODD will allow you to make
backup copies to a USB drive or an external ODD.

2Restore:

• Restore Operating System to Factory Defaults

• Restore Operating System and Retain User Data

• Reinstall Drivers or Applications

This chapter will guide you through each process.

To use the password protection feature of Acer eRecovery Management, you must
first set the password. The password is set by launching Acer eRecovery
Management and clicking Settings.

1