Acer TravelMate 330 User Guide

TravelMate 330 Series

Notebook Computer

User’s Guide

TravelMate 330 Series Notebook Computer User’s Guide Part No.: 49.40C01.151 Original Release: March 1999

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

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

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

TravelMate 330 Series Notebook Computer

Model Number : _________________________________ Serial Number: __________________________________ Purchase Date: __________________________________ Place of Purchase: ________________________________

Acer, the Acer logo and TravelMate are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Other trademarks, registered trademarks and/or service marks are the properties of their respective owners.

Table of Contents

Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii

Connecting the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiv

Getting Help Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xvi

Support Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii

Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xviii

Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Special Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Lock Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Embedded Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Windows Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Hot Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Keyboard Ergonomics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Touchpad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Touchpad Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Customizing the Center Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Hard Disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

EasyLink™ Combo Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Connecting and Disconnecting the EasyLink™ Combo Drive. . . . 18

Ejecting Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Playing DVD Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Left Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Rear Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Fax/Data Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Fast Infrared . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Universal Serial Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Right Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

PC Card Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Adjusting the Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Enabling the 3D Effect Feature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

iii

Securing your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Security Notch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Passwords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Setting a Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Battery Pack Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Using a Battery Pack for the First Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Replacing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Charging Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Checking the Battery Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Using the Windows Battery Meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Optimizing Battery Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Battery-low Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Display Standby Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Hard Disk Standby Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Standby Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Hibernation Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Sleep Mode (ACPI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Advanced Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Advanced Configuration and Power Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

External Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Setting Up Dual Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

External Pointing Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

External PS/2 Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

External Serial Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

External USB Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

External Keyboard and Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Audio Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

USB Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Miscellaneous Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Additional Power Packs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

AC Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

External Battery Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

PS/2 Y-Bridge Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

File Transfer Cable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Key Component Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Memory Upgrade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Installing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Hard Disk Upgrade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Installing a Replacement Hard Disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Chapter 4 Moving with your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Disconnecting from the Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Moving Around. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Preparing the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

What To Bring to Short Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

What To Bring to Long Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Taking the Computer Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Preparing the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

What To Bring with You. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Special Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Setting Up a Home Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Traveling with the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Preparing the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

What To Bring with You. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Special Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Traveling Internationally with the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Preparing the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

What To Bring with You. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Special Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Chapter 5 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Sleep Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Accessing the Sleep Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Sleep Manager Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Create . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Remove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Minimize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Notebook Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Information Viewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

POST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Boot Sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Password. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Setting the Power-On Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Setting the Setup Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Setting Advanced Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Display Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

BIOS Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Using the BIOS Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

System Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Basic System Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Startup Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Setting the Boot Drive Sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Onboard Devices Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

System Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Setting a Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Removing a Password. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Changing a Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Load Default Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Frequently-Asked Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Using PC-Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Online Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Before you call. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Appendix A Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Notices

FCC Notice

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device 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 device does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

❑ Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna ❑ Increase the separation between the device and receiver ❑ Connect the device into an outlet on a circuit different from that to

which the receiver is connected

❑ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for

help

vii

Notice: Shielded Cables

All connections to other computing devices must be made using shielded cables to maintain compliance with FCC regulations.

Notice: Peripheral Devices

Only peripherals (input/output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this equipment. Operation with non-certified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception.

Caution

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority, which is granted by the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this computer.

viii

Notices

Use Conditions

This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Notice: Canadian Users

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Remarque à l’intention des utilisateurs canadiens

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respected toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Modem Notices

FCC

This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. Located on the bottom side of the modem is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC Registration Number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this equipment. Upon request, you must provide this information to your telephone company.

If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may discontinue your service temporarily. If possible, they will notify you in advance. But, if advance notice is not practical, you will be notified as soon as possible. You will also 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 the proper functioning of your equipment. If they do, you will be notified in advance to give you an opportunity to maintain uninterrupted telephone service.

If 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.

CTR 21

This equipment has been approved [Council Decision 98/482/EC - “CTR 21”] for pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). However, due to differences between the individual PSTNs provided in different countries, the approval does not, of itself, give an unconditional assurance of successful operation on every PSTN termination point. In the event of problems, you should contact your equipment supplier in the first instance.

Important Safety Instructions

Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference.

1. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

2. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not

use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

3. Do not use this product near water.

4. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The

product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

this product where persons will walk on the cord.

8. 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.

Notices

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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Replace the 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 a qualified serviceman.

13. Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not

disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep them away from children and dispose of used batteries promptly.

14. Use only the proper type of power supply cord set (provided in

your accessories box) for this unit. It should be a detachable type: UL listed/CSA certified, type SPT-2, rated 7A 125V minimum, VDE approved or its equivalent. Maximum length is 15 feet (4.6 meters).

Year 2000 Compliance Statement

The TravelMate 330 series notebook computer is Year 2000-compliant and carries the “NSTL Hardware Tested Year 2000 Compliant” logo. This model has been tested both by Acer’s internal test labs and NSTL using

NSTL’s YMARK2000 certification test. These tests certify that this model will successfully make the year 2000 transition.

For more details, check the Acer Year 2000 Resource Center at http://www.acer.com.tw/service/y2k/

Laser Compliance Statement

The CD-ROM drive in this computer is a laser product. The CDROM drive’s classification label (shown below) is located on the drive.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1 PRODUIT LASERATTENTION: RADIATION DU FAISCEAU LASER INVISIBLE EN CAS D’OUVERTURE. EVITTER TOUTE EXPOSITION AUX RAYONS.

LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE LASER KLASSE 1 VORSICHT: UNSICHTBARE LASERSTRAHLUNG, WENN ABDECKUNG GEÖFFNET NICHT DEM STRAHLL AUSSETZEN

PRODUCTO LÁSER DE LA CLASE I ADVERTENCIA: RADIACIÓN LÁSER INVISIBLE AL SER ABIERTO. EVITE EXPONERSE A LOS RAYOS.

ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING VEDÅBNING SE IKKE IND I STRÅLEN. VARO! LAVATTAESSA OLET ALTTINA LASERSÅTEILYLLE.

VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NÅR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNAD ÅLÅ TUIJOTA SÅTEESEENSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN

VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NAR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNADSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN

ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING NAR DEKSEL ÅPNESSTIRR IKKE INN I STRÅLEN

xii

Notices

Lithium Battery Statement

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.

VARNING

Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte. Anvãnd samma batterityp eller en ekvivalent typ som rekommenderas av apparattillverkaren. Kassera anvãnt batteri enligt fabrikantens instruktion.

VAROITUS

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 ähnlichen Typ. Entsorgung gebrauchter Batterien nach Angaben des Herstellers.

Macrovision Copyright Protection Notice

The copyright protection technology included in this product is protected by specific U.S. patents method claims as well as various other intellectual property rights of Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. This copyright protection technology may not be used without the expressed written permission of Macrovision Corporation and, unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation, is intended only for home and other limited viewing uses. Any reverse engineering or disassembly is strictly forbidden.

Preface

This manual describes features of the TravelMate 330 series notebook computers. This series of ultra-slim computers incorporate such features as CardBus, 16-bit PCI stereo 3D audio, Fast Infrared, internal 56K modem, internal pointing device with scroll function, Universal Serial Bus, and Accelerated Graphics Port.

This manual should answer most of the questions you have about the day-to-day operation of your TravelMate notebook computer.

Use the Just for Starters… instructions that came with your computer to get your computer running for the first time.

You should also take advantage of the online help files that ar available with almost all of the programs shipped with your computer.

We hope you enjoy your TravelMate computer. With proper care, your computer will provide you with years of productive service.

xiii

xiv

Preface

Connecting the Computer

Connecting the computer is as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Gently insert the battery into the battery bay by following

the guide symbols on both the battery and the bottom of the computer; then slide the battery in until it clicks into place. The battery release latch locks.

Note: When using a battery pack for the first time, fully recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use up the battery before recharging again. You only need to do this once with a new battery

2. Connect one end of the AC adapter to the DC-in jack on the

rear of the computer and the other end to a power outlet.

3. Slide the display cover latch to the left to open the display.

Slide the power switch towards the rear of the computer

then release it to turn on the power. The POST (Power On Self-Test) routine executes and Windows begins loading.

Note: To turn off the power, press the power switch for more than four seconds. If you are using Windows, we recommend that you use the Shut Down command to turn off the computer. If you turn off the computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two seconds before powering up.

xvi

Preface

Getting Help Online

This user’s guide provides clear and concise information about the computer, so read it thoroughly. To provide you with help when traveling, the computer also has a comprehensive online help.

Accessing Online Help

To access the online documentation, locate and double-click on the TravelMate Online icon on the Windows desktop, or follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows logo button or click on the Start button.

2. Select Programs.

3. Click on TravelMate Online.

The online help is easy to navigate with hypertext and hypergraphics. Clear illustrations help describe notebook operation as well.

Getting Online

If you are connected to the Internet and have World Wide Web access, visit our home page at:

and get the latest information about our products.

http://www.acer.com/

Support Information

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

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

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

If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acerauthorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide.

For technical assistance and support in the United States and Canada, you can call 1-800-816-2237. You can also contact a local dealer or distributor in the country you are traveling in for assistance.

xvii

Note: For more information, see “Online Services” on page 112.

If you are connected to the Internet and have World Wide Web access, visit our home page (http://www.acer.com/) and get an updated list of our worldwide offices, as well as information about our products.

xviii

Preface

Care and Maintenance

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 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 and vibration.

❑

Do not expose the computer to dust and dirt.

❑

Never place objects on top of the computer to avoid damaging the computer

❑

Never place the computer on uneven surfaces.

These care and maintenance tips also apply to the EasyLink™ Combo Drive.

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 personal 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

(Model# CGP-E/618AE). 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 at all possible.

Cleaning and Servicing

When cleaning the computer, follow these steps:

1. Power off the computer and remove the battery pack.

2. Disconnect the AC adapter.

3. Use a soft cloth moistened with water. Do not use liquid or

aerosol cleaners.

xix

Contact your dealer or see your service technician if any of the following occurs:

❑ The computer has been dropped or the body has been

damaged.

❑

Liquid has been spilled into the product.

❑

The computer does not operate normally.

Preface

Getting Familiar with your Computer

Chapter 1

This computer combines high-performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.

This chapter gives an in-depth "tour" of the computer’s many features.

Features

This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features:

Performance

❑ ❑ 64-bit main memory and L2 cache memory ❑

❑ 64-bit PCI/AGP graphics acceleration with 2.5MB graphics

❑ ❑

❑ Lithium-Ion battery pack ❑ Power management system with APM (Advanced Power

Intel Pentium® II processor

Large and vibrant Thin-Film-Transistor (TFT) SVGA Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)

memory High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE removable hard disk External EasyLink™ Combo Drive (floppy drive + CD-ROM

or DVD-ROM drive)

Management) or ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface) support

Multimedia

❑

16-bit high-fidelity PCI stereo audio with 3D sound and wavetable synthesizer

❑ Built-in speaker ❑ EasyLink™ Combo Drive (CD-ROM or DVD-ROM) ❑ Dual display capability ❑ DVD playback capability (with DVD-equipped EasyLink™

DVD Combo Drive)

Connectivity

❑ High-speed fax/data PCI modem ❑ Fast infrared (FIR) wireless communication

Chapter 1

Getting Familiar with your Computer

❑

Universal Serial Bus (USB) port

Human-centric Design and Ergonomics

❑

Ultra-slim, sleek, smooth and stylish design

❑

Full-sized keyboard

❑

Wide and curved palm rest

❑

Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device with scroll function

Expansion

❑ CardBus PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) slot (one type II/I)

with Zoomed Video (ZV) support

❑ Upgradeable memory and hard disk

Display

The large graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality and desktop performance graphics. The computer supports a Thin-Film Transistor (T FT) liquid crystal display (LCD) displaying 32-bit true-color at 800x600 Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) resolution.

Video Performance

PCI local bus video with 64-bit graphics acceleration and 2.5MB high-speed Synchonous Graphics Random Access Memory (SGRAM) boost video performance. The video also includes 3D capabilities such as Goraud shading, and Z-buffering, as well as DVD playback support.

Simultaneous Display

The computer’s large display and multimedia capabilities are great for giving presentations. If you prefer, you can also connect an external monitor when giving presentations. This computer supports simultaneous LCD and CRT display. Simultaneous display allows you to control the presentation from your computer and at the same time face your audience. You can also connect other output display devices such as LCD projection panels for large-audience presentations.

Power Management

The power management system incorporates an "automatic LCD dim" feature that automatically decides the best settings for your display and at the same time conserves power. See “Power Management” on page 42 for more information on power management features.

Dual Display

The computer’s video chip takes advantage of Windows 98’s multi-display capability, allowing you to extend your desktop to an external display device, such as an external monitor or projector. With this feature enabled, you can move program windows to and from the computer LCD and external display

Chapter 1

Getting Familiar with your Computer

device. For more information, see “Setting Up Dual Display” on page 49.

Opening and Closing the Display

To open the display, slide the display cover latch to the left and lift up the cover. Then tilt it to a comfortable viewing position. The computer employs a microswitch that turns off the display (and enters Standby mode) to conserve power when you close the display cover, and turns it back on when you open the display cover

Note: If an external monitor is connected, the computer turns off the display (but does not enter standby mode) when you close the display cover.

To close the display cover, fold it down gently until the display cover latch clicks into place.

Caution: To avoid damaging the display, do not slam it when you close it. Also, do not place any object on top of the computer when the display is closed.

Indicators

The computer has six easy-to-read status icons on the right of the display screen.

The Power and Standby status icons are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed.

#### Ico

Iconnnn Fu

IcoIco

1 Power Lights when the computer is on.

2 Standby Lights when the computer enters

3 Media Activity Lights when the floppy drive, hard disk

4 Battery Charge Lights when the battery is being

5 Caps Lock Lights when Caps Lock is activated.

6 Num Lock Lights when Num Lock is activated.

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Standby mode.

or EasyLink™ Combo Drive is active.

charged.

Chapter 1

Getting Familiar with your Computer

Keyboard

The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys and twelve function keys.

Special Keys

Lock Keys

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

Lock

Lock Ke

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Lock Lock

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

Num Lock (Fn-F11)

Scroll Lock (Fn-F12)

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in uppercase.

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

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

Embedded Numeric Keypad

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

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red Ac

Acce

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red red

ss NNNNuuuum

AcAc

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m Lock

Lock On

On Nu

m m

Lock Lock

OnOn

Num

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Lock OOOOff

Lock Lock

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Number keys on embedded keypad

Cursor-control keys on embedded keypad

Main keyboard keys

Note: If an external keyboard or keypad is connected to the computer, the Num Lock feature automatically shifts from the internal keyboard to the external keyboard or keypad.

Type numbers in a normal manner.

Hold Shift while using cursor-control keys.

Hold Fn while typing letters on embedded keypad.

Hold Fn while using cursor-control keys.

Type the letters in a normal manner.

Chapter 1

Getting Familiar with your Computer

Windows Keys

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

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Hot Keys

Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key perform

Application key Opens a context menu (same as a right-click).

shortcut functions. Below are a few examples:

+ Tab (Activates next taskbar button)



+ E (Explores My Computer)



+ F (Finds Document)



+ M (Minimizes All)



Shift +  + M (Undoes Minimize All)

+ R (Displays the Run... dialog box)



The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS Utility.

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