Acer Travelmate 8471, Travelmate 8431 Service Manual

TravelMate 8471/8431 Series

Service Guide

Service guide files and updates are available

on the ACER/CSD web; for more information,

please refer to http://csd.acer.com.tw

PRINTED IN TAIWAN

Revision History

Please refer to the table below for the updates made on TravelMate 8471/8431 service guide.

Date Chapter Updates

Copyright

Copyright © 2009 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.

Acer Incorporated makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Any Acer Incorporated software described in this manual is sold or licensed "as is". Should the programs prove defective following their purchase, the buyer (and not Acer Incorporated, its distributor, or its dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing, repair, and any incidental or consequential damages resulting from any defect in the software.

Acer is a registered trademark of Acer Corporation. Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation. Pentium and Pentium II/III are trademarks of Intel Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

III

Conventions

The following conventions are used in this manual:

SCREEN MESSAGES

NOTE Gives bits and pieces of additional

WARNING Alerts you to any damage that might

CAUTION Gives precautionary measures to

IMPORTANT Reminds you to do specific actions

Denotes actual messages that appear on screen.

information related to the current topic.

result from doing or not doing specific actions.

avoid possible hardware or software problems.

relevant to the accomplishment of procedures.

Preface

Before using this information and the product it supports, please read the following general information.

1. This Service Guide provides you with all technical information relating to the BASIC CONFIGURATION decided for Acer's "global" product offering. To better fit local market requirements and enhance product competitiveness, your regional office MAY have decided to extend the functionality of a machine (e.g. add-on card, modem, or extra memory capability). These LOCALIZED FEATURES will NOT be covered in this generic service guide. In such cases, please contact your regional offices or the responsible personnel/channel to provide you with further technical details.

2. Please note WHEN ORDERING FRU PARTS, that you should check the most up-to-date information available on your regional web or channel. If, for whatever reason, a part number change is made, it will not be noted in the printed Service Guide. For ACER-AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer office may have a DIFFERENT part number code to those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use the list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.

System Specifications 1

System Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Board Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Top View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Your Acer Notebook tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Top View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Closed Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Rear view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Left View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Right View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Base view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Touchpad Basics (with fingerprint reader) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Touchpad basics (with two-click buttons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Using the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Windows Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Hot Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Using the system utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Acer Backup Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Power management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Acer PowerSmart key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Acer eRecovery Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Burn backup discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Hardware Specifications and Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

BIOS Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

System Utilities 27

Invoking BIOS Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Main . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

BIOS Flash Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Machine Disassembly and Replacement 37

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Disassembly Procedure Flowchard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Main unit disassembly flow chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

LCM module disassembly flow chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Removing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Removing the HDD and RAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Remove Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Remove FFC of main board and sub board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Remove Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

Disassembling the External Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Disassembling the HDD Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Troubleshooting 51

System Check Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

External Diskette Drive Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Table of Contents

External CD-ROM Drive Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Memory check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Power System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Touchpad Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Index of Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

InsydeH2O BIOS Beep Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Index of Symptom-to-FRU Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Intermittent Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

Undetermined Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Top View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Jumper and Connector Locations 69

Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List 71

TravelMate 8471/8431 Exploded Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

TravelMate 8471/8431 FRU List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

System Specifications

Features

Below is a brief summary of the computer’s many features:

Operating system

 Genuine Windows Vista®*

 Genuine Windows

NOTE: Windowsl

Windows Microsoft.com/windowsvista

Platform

 Intel® Core™2 Duo processor*

 Intel

 Mobile Intel

 Intel

 Acer InviLink™ Nplify™ 802.11b/g/Draft-N*

 Acer InviLink™ 802.11b/g*

Core™2 Solo processor*

Celeron® mobile processor*

Wireless WiFi Link 5100*

Vista® Capable PCs come with Windows® XP installed, and can be upgraded to

Vista®. For more information on Windows® Vista® and how to upgrade, go to:

GS45 Express Chipset

Chapter 1

System memory

 Dual-Channel SDRAM support

 Up to 2 GB of DDR3 1066 MHz memory, upgradeable to 4 GB using two soDIMM modules*

 Up to 4 GB of DDR3 1066 MHz memory, upgradeable to 8 GB using two soDIMM modules*

Display

 16:9 aspect ratio

 14.0" HD 1366 x 768

Graphics

 Mobile Intel® GS45 Express Chipset*

 ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 4330*

Audio

 High-definition audio support

 MS-Sound compatible

 Built-in microphones

Chapter 1 1

Storage subsystem

 2.5" hard disk drive*

 2.5" solid state drive*

 DVD-Super Multi double-layer drive

 Multi-in-1 card reader

Communication

 Integrated Acer Crystal Eye webcam*

 WLAN:

z Intel

z Acer InviLink™ Nplify™ 802.11b/g/Draft-N*

z Acer InviLink™ 802.11b/g*

 WPAN: Bluetooth

 WWAN: UMTS/HSPA at 850/900/1900/2100 MHz and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE (850/900/1800/

1900 MHz)*

 LAN: Gigabit Ethernet; Wake-on-LAN ready

Wireless WiFi Link 5100*

2.1+Enhanced Data Rate (EDR)*

Privacy control

 Enhanced Acer DASP (Disk Anti-Shock Protection)

 Acer Bio-Protection fingerprint solution*

 BIOS user, supervisor, HDD passwords

 Kensington lock slot

Dimensions and weight

 314.9 (W) x 235 (D) x 25.9/29.6 (H) mm

(13.46 x 9.25 x 1.01/1.16 inches)

 1.98 kg (4.37 lbs.) with 6-cell battery pack

Power subsystem

 ACPI 3.0

 62.16W 5600 mAh*

 3-pin 65W AC adapter

 ENERGY STAR

Special keys and controls

 88-/89-/93- key keyboard

 Touchpad pointing device

I/O Ports

 Acer EasyPort IV connector

 Acer Bio-Protection fingerprint reader*

 Multi-in-1 card reader (SD/MMC/MS/MS PRO/xD)

 USB 2.0 port

 External display (VGA) port

 Headphones/speaker/line-out

2 Chapter 1

 Microphone-in jack

 Ethernet (RJ-45) port

 DC-in jack for AC adapter

Environment

 Temperature:

z operating: 5°C to 35°C

z Non-operating: -20°C to 65°C

 Humidity (non-condensing):

z operating: 20% to 80%

z Non-operating: 20% to 80%

NOTE: "*" only for certain models.

NOTE: The specifications listed above are for reference only. The exact configuration of your PC depends on

the model purchased.

Chapter 1 3

System Block Diagram

P.33

AU6433B52

ALCOR

Port

P.33

USB8

USB9

(For BAP51)

Board

P.33

Audio

USB11

WLAN

USB4

P.33

Camera

USB7

BlueTooth

P.33

USB6

Finger Printer

USB5

P.33

Board

USB 2.0/1.1

Board

Audio

HUBX4

Port

EASY

USB3

USB0

Port

P.33

USB1

Port

P.33

USB2

Port

P.33

(For BAP51)

SSD HDD

P.35

P.33

Board

SATA 150

SATA HDD

HDD

SATA 150

512Mb

VRAM

DDR3

FCBGA 631pin

M92-S2

P.38

PCIE-GFX

P.37

EASY

Port

PS8101T

P.37

DVI-D

TMDS

PARADE

P.31

RGB

CRT

P.31

LCD

LVDS

P.17

FAN

Palmrest

EMC1402

Thermal

CPU

Thermal

Board

GP/FP

Glide Pad

P.33

P.27-30

SPI

ROM

Flash

P.32

P.34

TMDS (Cantiga

Analog Out (ALC269X)

USB Port3 (ICH9M)

P.33

DVI-D

ȑȑ

HUB USBX4

HP-OUT/MIC-IN

LINE-IN/SPDIF

RJ45 AC JACK

P.32

IT8502E-L

P.33

TPM

Board

TPM

EASY PORT

PMU&KBC 80Port

Support

S0~S3 state

EHCI#1

LPC 3.3V 33MHz

P.36

SPK

Out

ALC269X-GR

P.36

Out

Audio

Board

Out

Analog OutINAnalog In

P.33

Stereo

IntMic

Audio

Codec

Board

Audio

P.33

Cantiga - SFF

FCBGA 1363pin

P.18-23

P.26

MCH

27mmx25mm

800/1066MHz

DDR3 1.5V

800/1066MHz

27MHz/96MHz+/-

ICH9M-SFF

ICH

FCBGA569pin

16mmx16mm

DMI x4

HDA 24MHz

PCI-Express x1 2.5GHz-----Port 3

Audio

Board

RTL8111CA

GbE

P.33

PCI-Express x1 2.5GHz-----Port 1

PCI-Express x1 2.5GHz-----Port 2

Minicard

Board

Minicard

Board

Port#1

MiniCard #1

WLAN

P.33

P.25

P.15, 16P.17

FSB 1.05V

667/800/1066MHz

DDR3 1.5V

SODIMM0

SODIMM1

266MHz+/-

100MHz+/-

48MHz

33MHz

14MHz

Penryn 956Pin

CPU

Penryn - SFF

22mmx22mm

RTM675T-606-VD-GRT

TSSOP 64P

PLL

P.24

RJ45

x2 (CPU, NB)

x2 (ICH, SC)

x2 (ICH, SIO)

RTL8111CA

19V

4 Chapter 1

Board Layout

Top View

TravelMate 8471/8431 M/B layout and connector location

TOP view

No. Name Description

1 CN1 CCD cable CNTR

2 CN2 MMB cable CNTR

3 CN3 LVDS cable CNTR

4 CN4 Keyboard CNTR

5 CN5 Touch Pad FFC CNTR

6 CN6 SSD cable CNTR

7 CN7 Card reader CNTR

8 CN8 BT cable CNTR

9 CN15 Fan cable CNTR

10 CN21 Audio board CNTR

Chapter 1 5

Bottom View

Bottom view

No. Name Description

11 CN9 Battery CNTR

12 CN10 PCI-E socket

13 CN11 SIM card socket

14 CN12 PCI-E socket

15 CN13 Power cable CNTR

16 CN14 LVDS cable CNTR

17 CN16 DIMM socket

18 CN17 DIMM socket

19 CN19 HDD socket

20 CN20 USB board CNTR

21 U18 South Bridge

22 U14 North Bridge

6 Chapter 1

Your Acer Notebook tour

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

Top View

No. Icon Item Description

1 Acer Crystal Eye

webcam

2 Microphone Internal microphone for sound recording.

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

4 Speakers Left and right speakers deliver stereo audio output.

5 Keyboard For entering data into your computer.

6 Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a

Chapter 1 7

Web camera for video communication.

computer output (Configuration may vary by models).

computer mouse.

No. Icon Item Description

7 Click buttons (left,

center* and right)

The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons. *The center button serves as Acer Bio-Protection fingerprint reader supporting Acer FingerNav 4-way control function (only for certain models).

8 Palmrest Comfortable support area for your hands when you

use the computer.

9 Touchpad toggle Turns the internal touchpad on and off.

10 Eject Button Presses to eject the optical disk from the drive.

Optical disk access

Lights up when the optical drive is active.

indicator

11 HDD Indicates when the hard disk drive is active.

Num Lock Lights up when Num Lock is activated.

Caps Lock Lights up when Caps Lock is activated.

Communication key Enables / disables the WLAN / 3G functions.

Backup key Launches Acer Backup Management for three-step

Acer PowerSmart key

12 Power button /

indicator

data backup.

Puts your computer into power-saving mode.

Turns the computer on and off. / Indicates the computer's power status.

8 Chapter 1

Closed Front View

No. Icon Item Description

1 Battery Indicates the computer's battery status.

2Multi-in-1

card reader

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

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

Accepts Secure Digital (SD), MultiMediaCard (MMC), Memory Stick (MS), Memory Stick PRO (MS PRO), xD-Picture Card (xD).

NOTE: Push to remove/install the card. Only one card can operate at any given time.

Rear view

No. Icon Item Description

1 Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack.

Chapter 1 9

Left View

No. Icon Item Description

1 Ethernet (RJ-45) port Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/1000- based

2 Ventilation slots Enable the computer to stay cool, even after

3 Acer EasyPort IV

network.

prolonged use.

Connects to Acer EasyPort IV.

connector

4 External display

5 USB 2.0 ports Connect to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB

6 Microphone-in jack Accepts inputs from external microphones.

Right View

No. Icon Item Description

1 USB 2.0 port Connects to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB

2 Optical driver Internal optical drive; accepts CDs or DVDs.

3 Emergency eject

4 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter.

(VGA) port

Headphones/ speaker/line-out jack

hole

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

camera).

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

camera).

Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer is turned off.

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

10 Chapter 1

No. Icon Item Description

5 Kensington lock slot Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer

Base view

security lock. NOTE: Wrap the computer security lock cable around

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

No. Icon Item Description

1 Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack.

2 Battery lock Locks the battery in position.

3 Memory

compartment

4 Hard disk bay Houses the computer's hard disk (secured with

5 Ventilation slots and

cooling fan

6 Battery release latch Releases the battery for removal.

Chapter 1 11

Houses the computer's main memory.

screws).

Enable the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use.

NOTE: Do not cover or obstruct the opening of the fan.

Touchpad Basics (with fingerprint reader)

The following items show you how to use the touchpad with Acer Bio-Protection fingerprint reader.

1 23 4

 Move your finger across the touchpad (1) to move the cursor.

 Press the left (2) and right (4) buttons located beneath the touchpad to perform selection and execution

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

 Use Acer Bio-Protection fingerprint reader (3) supporting Acer FingerNav 4-way control function (only

for certain models) to scroll up or down and move left or right a page. This fingerprint reader or button mimics your cursor pressing on the right scroll bar of Windows applications.

Function Left Button (2) Right Button (4) Main touchpad (1) Center button (3)

Execute Quickly click

twice.

Select Click once. Tap once.

Drag Click and hold,

then use finger on the touchpad to drag the cursor.

Access context menu

Scroll Swipe up/down/

Click once.

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

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

left/right using Acer FingerNav 4-way control function(Manufacturing option).

12 Chapter 1

Touchpad basics (with two-click buttons)

The following items show you how to use the touchpad with two-click buttons.

 Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor.

 Press the left and right buttons located beneath the touchpad to perform selection and execution

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

Function Left Button Right Button Main touchpad

Execute Quickly click twice. Tap twice (at the

same speed as double-clicking a mouse button).

Select Click once. Tap once.

Drag Click and hold, then

use finger on the touchpad to drag the cursor.

Access context menu Click once.

NOTE: Illustrations for reference only. The exact configuration of your PC depends on the model purchased.

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

NOTE: When using the touchpad, keep it

finger movement; hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping harder will not increase the touchpad's responsiveness.

NOTE: By default, vertical and horizontal scrolling is enabled on your touchpad. It can be disabled under

Mouse settings in Windows Control Panel.

— and your fingers — dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to

Chapter 1 13

Using the Keyboard

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

Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad*

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

F11/ Num Lock

Caps Lock

Lock key Description

Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase.

Num Lock

<Fn> + <F11>*

Scroll Lock

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.

F12/ Scroll Lock

The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols

are not printed on the keys.

Desired access Num Lock on Num Lock off

Number keys on embedded keypad

Cursor-control keys on embedded keypad

Main keyboard keys

* only for certain models

14 Chapter 1

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 cursorcontrol keys.

Type the letters in a normal manner.

Windows Keys

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

Key Description

Windows key

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

<> : Open or close the Start menu.

< > + <D>: Display the desktop.

< > + <E>: Open Windows Explore.

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

< > + <G>: Cycle through Sidebar gadgets.

< > + <L>: Lock your computer (if you are connected to a network

domain), or switch users (if you're not connected to a network domain).

< > + <M>: Minimizes all windows.

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

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

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

< > + <X>: Open Windows Mobility Center.

Application key

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

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

< > + <TAB>: Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using

Windows Flip 3-D.

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

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

<CTRL> + < > + <TAB>: Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs

on the taskbar by using Windows Flip 3-D. NOTE: Depending on your edition of Windows Vista, some shortcuts may

not function as described.

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

Chapter 1 15

Hot Keys

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

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

Hotkey Icon Function Description

<Fn> + <F2> System property Starts System Property for displaying system

information.

<Fn> + <F3> Bluetooth Enables/disables the Bluetooth function.

(only for certain models).

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

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

screen, external monitor (if connected) and both.

<Fn> + <F6> Screen blank Turns the display screen backlight off to save

power. Press any key to return.

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

Brightness up Increases the screen brightness.

Brightness down Decreases the screen brightness.

Volume up Increases the sound volume.

Volume down Decreases the sound volume.

16 Chapter 1

Using the system utilities

Acer Bio-Protection (only for certain models)

Acer Bio-Protection Fingerprint Solution is a multi-purpose fingerprint software package integrated with the Microsoft Windows operating system. Utilizing the uniqueness of one's fingerprint, Acer Bio-Protection Fingerprint Solution incorporates protection against unauthorized access to your computer with centralized password management via Password Bank; easy music player launching with Acer MusicLaunch*; secure Internet favorites via Acer MyLaunch*; and fast application/website launching and login with Acer FingerLaunch. Acer ProfileLaunch** can launch up to three applications/ websites with a single finger swipe.

Acer Bio-Protection Fingerprint Solution also allows you to navigate through web browsers and documents using Acer FingerNav*. With Acer Bio-Protection Fingerprint Solution, you can now enjoy an extra layer of protection for your personal computer, as well as the convenience of accessing your daily tasks with a simple swipe of your finger!

For more information, refer to the Acer Bio-Protection help files.

NOTE:

* Acer ProfileLaunch, MusicLaunch, MyLaunch and FingerNav are only available on select models.

** In models without Acer ProfileLaunch, Acer FingerLaunch can be used to open applications in the Acer ProfileLaunch icons area; a single finger swipe will launch only one application at a time.

Chapter 1 17

Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible)

NOTE: This feature is only available on certain models.

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

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

Double (vertical), Triple (primary at left), Triple (primary at right), or Quad.

Acer Gridvista is dual-display compatible, allowing two displays to be partitioned independently.

Acer GridVista is imple to set up:

1. Run Acer GridVista and select your preferred screen configuration for each display from the taskbar.

2. Drag and drop each window into the appropriate grid.

18 Chapter 1

3. Enjoy the convenience of a well-organized desktop.

NOTE: Please ensure that the resolution setting of the second monitor is set to the manufacturer's

recommended value.

Acer Backup Manager

NOTE: This feature is only available on certain models.

Acer Backup Manager is a simple three-step process that allows you to create backup copies of your entire system or selected files and folders according to a schedule or as you need to.

To start Acer Backup Manager, press the Acer Backup Manager key above the keyboard. Alternatively, you can go to Start > All Programs > Acer Backup Manager > Acer Backup Manager. This will open the Welcome screen; from this screen you will be taken through the three steps to setup scheduled back ups.

Click Continue to proceed to the following screen. Click the + button and follow the onscreen instructions:

1. Select the content you want to back up. The less content you select, the quicker the process will be, but it will increase your risks of losing data.

2. Select where you want the backup copies to be stored. You will need to select an external drive or your D: drive; Acer Backup Manager cannot store a backup on the source drive.

3. Select how often you want Acer Backup Manager to create back ups.

Once you have finished these three steps, backups will be created according to the schedule. You can also create backups manually by pressing the Acer Backup Manager key.

If you wish to change your settings at any time, run Acer Backup Manager from the Start menu and go

through the steps outlined above.

Chapter 1 19

Power management

This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, hard disk, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (called an inactivity timeout), the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy.

This computer employs a power management scheme that supports the advanced configuration and power interface (ACPI), which allows for maximum power conservation and maximum performance at the same time. Windows handles all power-saving chores for your computer.

Acer PowerSmart key

The Acer PowerSmart key uses the power-saving features of your computer's graphics sub-system to reduce overall power consumption. When you press the Acer PowerSmart key, the screen brightness is reduced and the graphics chip switched to a lower speed; PCI and WLAN switch to power-saving modes. Press the Acer PowerSmart key again to return to your previous settings.

NOTE: This feature is only available on certain models.

Acer eRecovery Management

Acer eRecovery Management is a tool to quickly restore the system. You can back up/restore the factory default image, and reinstall applications and drivers.

NOTE: All of the following content is for general reference only. Actual product specifications may vary.

Acer eRecovery Management consists of the following functions:

1. Backup:

z Create Factory Default Disc

z Create Drivers and Applications Disc

2. Restore:

z Completely Restore System to Factory Defaults

z Restore Operating System and Retain User Data

z Reinstall Drivers or Applications

This chapter will guide you through each process.

NOTE: This feature is only available on certain models. For systems that do not have a built-in optical disc

burner, plug in an external optical disc burner before entering Acer eRecovery Management for optical disc-related tasks.

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.

20 Chapter 1

Burn backup discs

From the Backup page of Acer eRecovery Management, you can burn the factory default image or back up drivers and applications.

1. Click on Start > All Programs > Acer > Acer eRecovery Management.

2. Acer eRecovery Management opens to the Backup page.

3. Select the type of backup (factory default or drivers and applications) you would like to burn to disc.

4. Follow the instructions on screen to complete the process.

NOTE: Create a factory default image when you want to burn a bootable disc that contains your computer's

entire operating system as it was delivered to you from the factory. If you wish to have a disc that will allow you to browse the contents and install selected drivers and applications, create a drivers and application backup instead — this disc will not be bootable.

Restore

The restore feature allows you to restore or recover the system from a factory default image or from previously created CD and DVD backups. You can also reinstall applications and drivers for your Acer system.

1. Click on Start, All Programs, Acer, Acer eRecovery Management.

2. Switch to the Restore page by clicking Restore.

Chapter 1 21

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