eMachines H3120 User Manual

User Guide

Manuel de l'utilisateur

for your eMachines computer

pour votre ordinateur eMachines

www.emachines.com

Contents

Contents

Chapter 1: Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Thank you for purchasing our computer! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Using the eMachines Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Using Help and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Searching for a topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Getting help in Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Using Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Chapter 2: Getting to Know Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Connecting the dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Connecting to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired Ethernet network . . . 12

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Chapter 3: Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Working safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Setting up your computer and computer accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Sitting at your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Checking the voltage selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Starting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Waking up your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Restarting (rebooting) your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Enhanced keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Standard keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Chapter 4: Using Windows XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Using the Windows desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Using the Start menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Adding icons to the desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Identifying window items 28

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Working with files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Viewing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Creating folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Copying and moving files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Deleting files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Searching for files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Using the Windows Search utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Browsing for files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Working with documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Creating a new document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Saving a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Opening a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Printing a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Using shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Chapter 5: Using the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Learning about the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Setting up an Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Accessing your Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Using the World Wide Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Connecting to a Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Downloading files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Using e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Sending e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Checking your e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Chapter 6: Networking Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Introduction to Networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Using a router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Creating an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Installing Ethernet cards and drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Making sure your broadband connection works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Naming the computers and the workgroup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Configuring the TCP/IP protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Setting up an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Configuring your router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Testing your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Sharing resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Sharing drives and printers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Using the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Viewing shared drives and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Mapping a network drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Opening files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Copying files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Printing files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Adding a printer to your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

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Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Installing and configuring Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Installing Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Configuring Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Sending a simple fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Setting up your cover page template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Faxing from programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Faxing a scanned document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Receiving and viewing a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Canceling a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Automatically retry sending a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Automatically canceling a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Chapter 8: Using Drives and Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Using the CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Inserting a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Using a second monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Viewing the display on a television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Modifying television settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Using Windows Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Manually updating the Media Center Program Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Using multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Playing music and movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Playing WAV audio files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Playing audio and video files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Creating audio files and music libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Creating music files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Building a music library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Editing track information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Creating and editing videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Editing videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Transferring your video to your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Editing your video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Saving your video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Creating music CDs and video DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Creating a music CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Creating video DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Advanced multimedia software features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Recording audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

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Chapter 9: Customizing Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Adjusting the screen and desktop settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Adjusting the color depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Adjusting the screen resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Changing the colors on your Windows desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Changing the desktop background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Selecting a screen saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Using an extended desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Changing the mouse settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Changing Power-Saving Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Changing the power scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Changing advanced power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Activating and using Hibernate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Installing an uninterruptible power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Chapter 10: Protecting Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Hardware security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Kensington lock slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Data security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

About startup and hard drive passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

About Windows XP user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Protecting your computer from viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Using McAfee SecurityCenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Using Windows XP Security Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Security updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Windows Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Chapter 11: Protecting and Recovering Your Files and Software . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

System recovery options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Copying driver and application recovery files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Creating recovery discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Copying driver and application recovery files to a network . . . . . . . . . 122

Creating discs from recovery files on a network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Recovering specific files and software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Recovering your system using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Recovering your system from the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Chapter 12: Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Setting up a maintenance schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

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www.emachines.com

Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Using Disk Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Using the Scheduled Task Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Transferring files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Transferring Internet settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Installing your old printer or scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Installing your old programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Contents

Chapter 13: Adding and Replacing Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Opening the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Removing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Removing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Replacing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Replacing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Replacing the system battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Adding or replacing a CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Replacing the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Adding or replacing a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Replacing the rear fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155

Replacing the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

Replacing the heat sink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Replacing the front I/O panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Adding or replacing an expansion card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Replacing the system board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Chapter 14: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Add-in cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

CD or DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

Diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

File management 169

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Contents www.emachines.com

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Before calling eMachines Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182

Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182

Appendix A: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

vi

CHAPTER 1

Getting Help

• Thank you for purchasing our
computer!

• Using the eMachines Web site

• Using Help and Support

• Using Online help

•Contact information

• Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

CHAPTER 1: Getting Help www.emachines.com

Thank you for purchasing our computer!

You have made an excellent decision by choosing eMachines. We are sure that
you will be pleased with the outstanding quality, reliability, and performance
of your new computer. Each and every eMachines computer uses the latest
technology and passes the most stringent quality control tests to make sure that
you are provided with the best product possible.

Please read this manual carefully to familiarize yourself with your new computer,
as well as our range of services and support. We have highlighted some basic
care and safety information to help you keep your computer in good operating
condition.

eMachines stands behind our value proposition to our customers — to provide
best-of-class service and support, in addition to high-quality, brand-name
components, at affordable prices. If you ever have a problem, our
knowledgeable, dedicated customer service department will provide you with
fast, considerate service.

We sincerely hope that you will receive the utmost satisfaction and enjoyment
from your new eMachines computer for years to come.

Thanks again, from all of us at eMachines.

Using the eMachines Web site

eMachines's online support is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and
provides the most current drivers, product specifications, tutorials, and
personalized information about your computer. Visit the eMachines Web
support site at www.emachines.com/support

.

2

www.emachines.com

Using Help and Support

Your computer includes Help and Support, an easily accessible collection of help
information, troubleshooters, and automated support. Use Help and Support
to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and use
the many features of your eMachines computer.

To start Help and Support:

■ Click Start, then click Help and Support. Help and Support opens.

Using Help and Support

Searching for a topic

Using Help and Support, you can find help information by clicking a link,
performing a search, or browsing the index.

To search for a topic in Help and Support, type a word or phrase (keyword) in
the Search box located at the top of any Help and Support screen, then click
the arrow button.

For each search, you receive the following search result types:

■ Suggested Topics—These topics are located in Help and Support and are

relevant to your search topic.

■ Full-text Search Matches—These topics are located in Help and Support

and contain the words you entered in the Search box.

■ Microsoft Knowledge Base—These topics are located on the Microsoft

Web site and contain the words you entered in the Search box. You must
be connected to the Internet to search for and access these topics.

To view a list of your search results, click the results header for the type of results
you want to view.

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CHAPTER 1: Getting Help www.emachines.com

To view a topic, click the topic name in the Search Results list.

Getting help in Media Center

If your computer has Windows XP Media Center Edition, you can access online
help or refer to the printed Windows XP Media Center Edition Guide.

To access Media Center help:

1 In the Media Center window, move the mouse to activate the Media Center

tool bar. The tool bar appears at the top of the window.

Using Online help

4

2 Click the Help icon in the tool bar.

Many programs provide information online so you can research a topic or learn
how to perform a task while you are using the program. You can access most
online help information by selecting a topic from a Help menu or by clicking
a Help button.

www.emachines.com

Contact information

You can search for information by viewing the help contents, checking the
index, searching for a topic or keyword, or browsing through the online help.

Contact information

The label on the front of your computer case contains information that identifies
your computer model and serial number. eMachines Customer Care will need
this information if you call for assistance.

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CHAPTER 1: Getting Help www.emachines.com

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the back or side of your
computer includes the product key code for your operating system. If you ever
reinstall Windows from the installation CD or DVD, you will need to enter these
numbers to activate Windows.

6

CHAPTER 2

Getting to Know Your

Computer

•Front

•Back

•Connecting the dial-up modem

• Connecting to a cable or DSL
modem or to a wired Ethernet
network

• Installing a printer, scanner, or other
peripheral device

• Configuring the audio jacks

CHAPTER 2: Getting to Know Your Computer www.emachines.com

Front

Your computer hardware

Important

options and port locations may
vary from the illustration below.

Optical drive

Optical drive (optional)

USB port

(optional)

Hard drive access

indicator

Memory card reader
(optional)

Power button/
Power indicator

IEEE 1394

ports (optional)

USB ports (optional)

eMachines help resources
and Customer Care
information

Model:
S/No:

Model and serial number

Microphone jack

Headphone jack

Component Icon Description

Optical drive Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install games and programs, watch DVDs,

USB ports
(optional)

Hard drive access
indicator

and store large files onto recordable discs (depending on drive type).
This drive may be a CD, recordable CD, DVD, or recordable DV D drive. To i dentify
your drive type and for more information about your drive, see “Identifying

drive types” on page 73.

Plug a USB (UniversalSerial Bus) device (such as a printer, scanner, camera,
keyboard, or mouse) into this port. For more information, see “Installing a

printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 13.

Turns on when the hard drive is accessed.

8

www.emachines.com

Front

Component Icon Description

IEEE 1394 ports
(optional)

Memory card reader
(optional)

Power button /
Power indicator

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is color-coded red or pink.

Headphone jack Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external amplifier, or headphones

eMachines help
resources and
Customer Care
information

eMachines model
and serial number

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire® or i.Link®) device (such as a digital
camcorder) into one of these 6-pin IEEE 1394 ports. For more information, see

“Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 13.

Insert a memory card from a digital camera, MP3 player, PDA, cellular
telephone, or other devices into the memory card reader. For more
information, see “Using the memory card reader” on page 72.

Press this button to turn the power on or off. You can also config ure the power
button to operate in Standby/Resume mode or Hibernate mode.
The button lights when the computer is turned on.

into this jack. This jack is color-coded orange.

Contains information about how to access eMachines Customer Care.

Contains your model and serial number.

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CHAPTER 2: Getting to Know Your Computer www.emachines.com

Back

Your computer hardware options and

port locations may vary from the

Important

illustration below.

Voltage selection

switch

Power connector

PS/2 mouse port

PS/2 keyboard port

Serial port

Parallel port

Monitor port

USB ports

USB ports

(optional)

Microphone jack

Audio output (Line

out) jack

Audio input

(Line in) jack

Telephone jack

Case cover
thumbscrew

IEEE

1394 ports (optional)

Ethernet

(network) jack

Modem jack

Case cover
thumbscrew

10

Component Icon Description

Voltage selection
switch

Power connector Plug the power cord into this connector.

PS/2 mouse port Plug a Personal System/2® (PS/2) mouse into this port.

PS/2 keyboard port Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port.

Serial port Plug a serial device into this port. For more information, see “Installing a printer,

Parallel port Plug a parallel device (such as a printer) into this port. For more information, see

Before turning on your computer, make sure that this switch is in the correct
position for the correct power available. The switch is preset at the factory with
the correct voltage for your area.
In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal 115 volts at 60
Hz. The power supply should always be set to this when your computer is
operating in the United States. In other areas of the world, such as Europe, the
utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your computer is operating in
an environment such as this, the voltage switch should be moved to 230. For more
information, see “Checking the voltage selection” on page 18.

scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 13.

“Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 13.

www.emachines.com

Connecting the dial-up modem

Component Icon Description

Monitor port Plug a monitor into this port.

USB ports
(optional)

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is color-coded red or pink.

Audio output (Line
out) jack

Audio input
(Line in) jack

Telephone jack
(optional)

Case cover
thumbscrews

IEEE 1394 ports
(optional)

Ethernet (network)
jack

Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a USB Iomega™ Zip™ drive,
printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports. For more
information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on

page 13.

Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external amplifier, or headphones into
this jack. This jack is color-coded lime green.

Plug an external audio input source (such as a stereo) into this jack so you can
record sound on your computer. This jack is color-coded blue.

If your modem has a telephone jack, plug the cable for a telephone into this jack.

Remove these screws before opening the case.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire
camcorder) into one of these 6-pin IEEE 1394 ports. For more information, see

“Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 13.

Plug a 10/100 Ethernet network cable or a device (such as a DSL or cable modem
for a broadband Internet connection) into this jack.

®

or i.Link®) device (such as a digital

Modem jack Plug a modem cable into this jack.

Connecting the dial-up modem

Your computer has a built-in 56K modem that you can use to connect to a
standard telephone line for a dial-up Internet connection.

To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26

AWG or larger telecommunications line

Warning

cord.

To connect the modem:

1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem jack on the back

of your computer.

2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack. The

modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.

3 Start your computer, then start your communications program.

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CHAPTER 2: Getting to Know Your Computer www.emachines.com

Connecting to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired Ethernet
network

Your computer has a network jack that you can use to connect to a cable or
DSL modem or to a 10/100 wired Ethernet network.

Your computer is equipped with a built-in

Ethernet port. For information about

setting up a wired or wireless Ethernet

network, see “Networking Your

You can use your computer’s Ethernet

jack for more than just networking.

Broadband Internet connections, such as

cable and DSL modems, also connect to

your computer’s Ethernet jack.

Important

Computer” on page 49.

Tips & Tricks

To connect to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethernet network:

1 Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack on the back

of your computer.

2 Insert the other end of the network cable into a network jack.

12

www.emachines.com

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device

Before you install a printer, scanner, or

other peripheral device, see the device

documentation and installation

Important

instructions.

Your computer has one or more of the following ports: IEEE 1394 (also known
as Firewire® or i.Link®), Universal Serial Bus (USB), serial, and parallel. You use
these ports to connect peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital
cameras to your computer. For more information about port locations, see

“Front” on page 8.

IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and hot-swapping, which means
that your computer will usually recognize such a device whenever you plug it
into the appropriate port. When you use an IEEE 1394 or USB device for the first
time, your computer will prompt you to install any software the device needs.
After doing this, you can disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.

For more information about installing

peripheral devices, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

installing devices in the Search box,

Help and Support

Parallel and serial port devices are not plug-and-play. See the device
documentation for detailed information and installation instructions.

then click the arrow.

Configuring the audio jacks

If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks. This
means that they can be used for more than one purpose. For example, the blue
jack on the computer can be a stereo-in jack or a stereo-out jack. To use the
audio jacks for something other than the default audio device, you need to
configure the audio jacks.

To configure the audio jacks:

1 Connect your audio device(s) to the computer audio jack(s).

2 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio
Devices. Click/Double-click Sounds and Audio Devices, then click
Advanced under Speaker Settings. The Advanced Audio Properties dialog

box opens.

-OR-

If your computer has the Realtek Sound Effect Manager installed,
double-click the Sound Effect Manager icon on the taskbar. The
Realtek dialog box opens.

3 Configure the audio jacks for your speaker setup.

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CHAPTER 2: Getting to Know Your Computer www.emachines.com

14

CHAPTER 3

Using Your Computer

•Working safely

• Starting your computer

• Turning off your computer

• Restarting (rebooting) your
computer

•Using the keyboard

•Using the mouse

•Adjusting the volume

CHAPTER 3:

Using Your Computer

Working safely

www.emachines.com

Before using your computer, read the following recommendations for setting
up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain.

Top of screen is not
higher than eye level

Screen is perpendicular
to your line of sight

Hands and

arms are

parallel to the

floor

Reducing eye strain

Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the monitor screen or
shine directly into your eyes.

■ Position the computer desk and monitor so you can avoid glare on your

screen and light shining directly into your eyes. Reduce glare by installing
shades or curtains on windows, and by installing a glare screen filter on
your monitor.

■ Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use your computer in

a dark room.

■ Avoid focusing your eyes on your computer screen for long periods of

time. Look away from your computer occasionally, and try to focus on
distant objects.

Setting up your computer desk and chair

When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make sure that the desk
is the appropriate height and the chair helps you maintain good posture.

■ Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

■ Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands and arms are

positioned parallel to the floor when you use the keyboard and mouse. If
the desk is not adjustable or is too tall, consider using a keyboard drawer.

■ Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes your weight evenly,

and keeps your body relaxed.

Feet are flat on the floor

16

www.emachines.com

■ Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly below the level of your

elbow. This position lets your shoulders relax while you type.

■ Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of the seat, or use a footrest

to distribute your weight evenly on the chair and relieve pressure on the
back of your thighs.

■ Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower curve of your spine.

You can use a pillow or cushion to provide extra back support.

Setting up your computer and computer accessories

■ Set up the monitor so the top is no higher than eye level, the monitor

controls are within reach, and the screen is tilted to be perpendicular to
your line of sight.

■ Place your keyboard and mouse at a comfortable distance. You should be

able to reach them without stretching.

■ Set paper holders at the same height and distance as the monitor.

Sitting at your computer

Working safely

■ Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make sure that they are in

a relaxed position when you type.

■ Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your back straight so your

knees, hips, and elbows form right angles when you work.

■ Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.

■ Avoid twisting your torso or neck.

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

■ Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.

■ Take breaks to change your position, stretch your muscles, and relieve your

eyes.

■ Find ways to break up the work day, and schedule a variety of tasks.

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CHAPTER 3:

Using Your Computer

Protecting from power source problems

During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your computer
can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage.
Protect your computer and peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge
protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents them from reaching your
computer.

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High voltages can enter your computer

through both the power cord and the

modem connection. Protect your

computer by using a surge protector. If

you have a telephone modem, use a

surge protector that has a modem jack. If

you have a cable modem, use a surge

protector that has an antenna/cable

TV jack. During an electrical storm,

unplug both the surge protector and the

Wa rning

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer
during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended
period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to
save your work and shut down your computer normally.

modem.

Checking the voltage selection

If you set the voltage selection switch

incorrectly, your system will be dam aged.

Make sure this switch is set correctly for

your location before turning on your

In the United States, the utility power is
supplied at a nominal 115 volts at 60 Hz.
The power supply should always be set to

this when your computer is operating in

the United States. In other areas of the

world, such as Europe, the utility power is

supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your
computer is operating in an environment
such as this, the voltage switch should be

Caution

computer.

A power supply is integrated into your computer to provide power to the system
board, add-in cards, and peripheral devices. The voltage selection for your
location is typically set at the factory. Use the power selection switch on the back
of your computer to set the power supply to 115V or 230V. To verify that your
system has the correct setting for your environment, check the voltage selection
switch.

moved to 230.

To set the voltage selection switch:

18

■ Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the voltage selection

switch to the correct voltage position.

Voltage selection switch

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Starting your computer

To start your computer:

1 Connect the cables to your computer. See the setup poster.

2 Turn on your computer.

3 If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen

instructions to set up your computer.

Starting your computer

Your computer has a built-in variable

speed fan. In addition, your computer

uses a powerful processor which

produces heat. Both the system fan and

processor can run at different speeds at

times to ensure proper system cooling.

You may notice an increase in the fan
noise when the fan is running at high
speed and a decrease in the fan noise

when it switches to normal speed.

Important

4 Connect and turn on any peripheral devices, such as printers or scanners,

and see the documentation that came with the device for setup
instructions.

Waking up your computer

When you have not used your computer for several minutes or have not turned
off your computer, it may enter a power-saving mode called Standby. While in
Standby, the power indicator flashes.

For more information about changing

the power button mode, see “Changing

Power-Saving Settings” on page105.

Tips & Tricks

If your computer is in Standby mode, move the mouse or press the power
button to “wake” it up.

Turning off your computer

When you turn off your computer, certain

components in the power supply and

system board remain energized. In order

to remove all electrical power from your

computer, unplug the power cord and

modem cable from the wall outlets. We

recommend disconnecting the power

cord and modem cable when your
computer will not be used for long

Warning

To turn off your computer:

1 Click Start, then click Turn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog

box opens.

2 Click Turn Off. Windows shuts down and turns off your computer.

periods.

If for some reason you cannot use the

Turn Off Computer option in Windows to

turn off your computer, press and hold

the power button for about five seconds,

Important

then release it.

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Using Your Computer

Restarting (rebooting) your computer

If your computer does not respond to keyboard or mouse input, you may have
to close programs that are not responding. If closing unresponsive programs
does not restore your computer to normal operation, you may have to restart
(reboot) your computer.

To close unresponsive programs and restart your computer:

1 Press CTRL+ALT+DEL. The Task Manager window opens.

2 Click the Applications tab, then click the program that is not responding.

3 Click End Task.

4 Click × in the top-right corner of the Windows Task Manager dialog box.

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If your computer does not turn off, press

and hold the power button for about

five seconds, then release it.

Important

Using the keyboard

Enhanced keyboard

5 If your computer does not respond, turn it off, wait ten seconds, then turn

it on again.

As a part of the regular startup process, a program to check the disk status
runs automatically. When the checks are finished, Windows starts.

Editing buttons

Function keys

Audio playback
buttons

Internet
buttons

Navigation keys

Indicators

20

Windows keys

Application key

Directional keys

Numeric keypad

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Standard keyboard

Using the keyboard

Keyboard features

Function keys

Windows keys

Indicators

Application key

Navigation keys

Internet buttons

Directional keys

Numeric keypad

The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard
also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.

Feature Icon Description

Editing buttons Use these buttons to copy, cut, and paste.

Function keys Use these buttons to start program actions. Each program uses different

function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find
out more about the function key actions.

Internet buttons Use these buttons to launch your Internet home page, search, or e-mail

Audio playback
buttons

Navigation keys Use these ke ys keys to move the cursor to the beginning of a line, to the e nd

Indicators Show if your N

Windows keys Use one of these keys to open the Windows Start menu. These keys can

Application key Use this key to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

Directional keys Use these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or left.

Numeric keypad Use these keys to type numbers when the numeric keypad (N

programs.

Use these buttons to play your audio files and to adjust the volume.

of a line, up the page, down the page, to the beginning of a document, or
to the end of a document.

UM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press

the corresponding key to activate the function.

also be used in combination with other keys to open utilities like F (Search
utility), R (Run utility), and E (Explorer utility).

UM LOCK) is

turned on.

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CHAPTER 3:

Using Your Computer

Using the mouse

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The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer
display. This illustration shows the standard mouse.

Right button

Left button

As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the display moves in the same
direction.

You can us e t he left and right buttons on the mouse to select objects on the
display.

You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through a document. This
feature is not available in all programs.

Scroll wheel

22

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Adjusting the volume

To... Do this...

Move the pointer
on the computer
display

Select an object
on the computer
display

Start a program or
open a file or
folder

Access a shortcut
menu or find more
information about
an object on the
computer display.

Move an object on
the computer
display.

click

click

(hold)

click

click

click,

click,
click

click

and drag

and drag

click

Move the mouse around on the mouse pad. If you run
out of space on your mouse pad and need to move
the pointer farther, pick up the mouse, set it down
in the middle of the mouse pad, then continue
moving the mouse.

Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press
and release the left mouse button once. This action
is called clicking.

Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press
and release the left mouse button twice. This action
is called double-clicking.

Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press
and release the right mouse button once. This action
is called right-clicking.

Position the pointer over the object. Press the left
mouse button and hold it down. Move (drag) the
object to the appropriate part of the computer
display. Release the button to drop the object where
you want it.

For more information about how to

adjust the double-click speed, pointer

configuration, and other mouse settings,

speed, right-hand or left-hand

see “Changing the mouse settings” on

Tips & Tricks

For instructions on how to clean the mouse, see “Cleaning the mouse” on

page 131.

page 104.

Adjusting the volume

You can use the volume controls to adjust the overall volume and the volume
of specific sound devices in your computer.

For instructions on how to adjust the

volume in Windows, see “Adjusting the

Tips & Tricks

volume” on page 81.

To adjust the overall volume level using hardware controls:

■ If you are using external speakers, turn the knob on the front of the

speakers.

-OR-

Use the mute and volume control buttons on the keyboard. For more
information, see “Using the keyboard” on page 20.

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CHAPTER 3:

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24

CHAPTER 4

Using Windows XP

• Using the Windows desktop

• Working with files and folders

• Searching for files

•Working with documents

• Using shortcuts

CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

Using the Windows desktop

After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop. The
desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your personalized
work space where you can open programs and perform other tasks.

Your desktop may be different from this example, depending on how your
computer is set up.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword
Windows desktop in the Search box,

then click the arrow.

Desktop
elements

The desktop contains the taskbar, the Start button, and the Recycle Bin icon.

Description

The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the computer display containing the Start button on the
left and a clock on the right. Other buttons on the taskbar represent programs that are running.
Click a program’s button on the taskbar to open the program’s window.

The Start button provides access to programs, files, help for Windows and other programs, and
computer tools and utilities.
Click the

Start button, then open a file or program by clicking an item on the menu that opens.

The Recycle Bin is where files, folders, and programs that you discarded are stored. You must empty
the Recycle Bin to permanently delete them from your computer. For instructions on how to use
the Recycle Bin, see “Deleting files and folders” on page 31.

The Windows Security Center icon may appear on the taskbar near the clock. The icon changes
appearance to notify you when the security settings on your computer are set below the
recommended value or when updates are available. Double-click this icon to open the Windows
Security Center.

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Using the Start menu

Using the Windows desktop

You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for
files and folders, and more using the Start menu.

To use the Start menu:

1 Click the Start button on the lower left of the Windows desktop. The Start

menu opens showing you the first level of menu items.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

Windows Start menu in the Search box,

then click the arrow.

2 Click All Programs to see all programs and files in the Start menu. When

you move the mouse pointer over any menu item that has an arrow next
to it, another menu, called a submenu, opens and reveals related files,
programs, or commands.

3 Click a file or program to open it.

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CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

Adding icons to the desktop

You may want to add an icon (shortcut) to the desktop for a program that you
use frequently.

To add icons to the desktop:

1 Click Start, then click All Programs.

2 Right-click (press the right mouse or touchpad button) the program that

you want to add to the desktop.

3 Click Send To, then click Desktop (create shortcut). A shortcut icon for

that program appears on the desktop.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

desktop icons in the Search box, then

click the arrow.

Identifying window items

When you double-click the icon for a drive, folder, file, or program, a window
opens on the desktop. This example shows the Local Disk (C:) window, which
opens after you double-click the Local Disk (C:) icon in the My Computer
window.

Title bar

Menu bar

Close
Maximize

Minimize

Every program window looks a little different because each has its own menus,
icons, and controls. Most windows include these items:

28

Window item Description

The title bar is the horizontal bar at the top of a window
that shows the window title.

Clicking the minimize button reduces the active window to
a button on the taskbar. Clicking the program button in the
taskbar opens the window again.

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Window item Description

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

window in the Search box, then click the

arrow.

Working with files and folders

You can organize your files and programs to suit your preferences much like you
would store information in a file cabinet. You can store these files in folders and
copy, move, and delete the information just as you would reorganize and throw
away information in a file cabinet.

Working with files and folders

Clicking the maximize button expands the active win dow to
fit the entire computer display. Clicking the maximize
button again restores the window to its former size.

Clicking the close button closes the active window or
program.

Clicking an item on the menu bar starts an action such as
Print or Save.

Viewing drives

Drives are like file cabinets because they hold files and folders. A computer
usually has more than one drive. Each drive has a letter, usually Local Disk (C:)
for the hard drive and 3½ Floppy (A:) for the diskette drive. You may also have
additional drives, such as CD or DVD drives.

To view the drives on your computer:

■ Click Start, then click My Computer on the Start menu.

Hard

drives

Diskette

drive

Disc drive

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CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

To see the files and folders on a drive:

■ Double-click the drive icon. If you do not see the contents of a drive after

you double-click its icon, click Show the contents of this drive.

Creating folders

Folders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They can contain files and other
folders.

Files are much like paper documents—letters, spreadsheets, and pictures—that
you keep on your computer. In fact, all information on a computer is stored in
files.

Folde rs

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

creating files and folders in the Search

box, then click the arrow.

Files

To create a folder:

1 Click Start, then click My Computer on the Start menu.

2 Double-click the drive where you want to put the new folder. Typically,

Local Disk (C:) is your hard drive and 3½ Floppy (A:) is your diskette drive.
If you do not see the contents of the drive, click Show the contents of

this drive.

3 If you want to create a new folder inside an existing folder, double-click

the existing folder. If you do not see the contents of the drive or folder,
click Show the contents of this drive or Show the contents of this

folder.

4 Click File, New, then click Folder. The new folder is created.

5 Type a name for the folder, then press ENTER. The new folder name appears

by the folder icon.

For information about renaming folders, see “Using shortcuts” on page 39.

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Copying and moving files and folders

The skills you need to copy and move files are called copying, cutting, and
pasting.

When you copy and paste a file or folder, you place a copy of the file or folder
on the Windows clipboard, which temporarily stores it. Then, when you decide
what folder you want the copy to go in (the destination folder), you paste it there.

When you cut and paste a file or folder, you remove the file or folder from its
original location and place the file or folder on the Windows clipboard. When
you decide where you want the file or folder to go, you paste it there.

Working with files and folders

The clipboard stores whatever you cut or
copy until you cut or copy again. Then the

clipboard contains the new information

only. Therefore, you can paste copies of a

file or folder into more than one place,

but as soon as you copy or cut a different

file or folder, the original file or folder is

deleted from the clipboard.

Important

To copy a file or folder to another folder:

1 Locate the file or folder you want to copy. For more information, see

“Viewing drives” on page 29 and “Searching for files” on page 33.

2 Right-click (press the right mouse or touchpad button) the file or folder

that you want to copy. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop.

3 Click Copy on the pop-up menu.

4 Open the destination folder.

5 With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.

6 Click Paste. A copy of the file or folder appears in the new location.

To move a file or folder to another folder:

1 Locate the file or folder you want to move. For more information, see

“Viewing drives” on page 29 and “Searching for files” on page 33.

2 Right-click (press the right mouse or touchpad button) the file or folder

that you want to move. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop.

3 Click Cut on the pop-up menu.

4 Open the destination folder.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

creating files and folders or moving

files and folders in the Search box, then

click the arrow.

Deleting files and folders

5 With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.

6 Click Paste. The file or folder you moved appears in its new location and

is removed from its old location.

When you throw away paper files and folders, you take them from the file
cabinet and put them in a trash can. Eventually the trash can is emptied.

In Windows, you throw away files and folders by first moving them to the
Windows trash can, called the Recycle Bin, where they remain until you decide
to empty the bin.

You can recover any file in the Recycle Bin as long as the bin has not been
emptied.

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CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

To delete files or folders:

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

deleting files and folders in the Search

box, then click the arrow.

1 In My Computer or Windows Explorer, click the files or folders that you

want to delete. For instructions on how to select multiple files and folders,
see “Using shortcuts” on page 39.

If you cannot find the file you want to delete, see “Searching for files” on

page 33.

2 Click File, then click Delete. Windows moves the files and folders to the

Recycle Bin.

To recover files or folders from the Recycle Bin:

1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. The Recycle Bin window opens and lists

the files and folders you have thrown away since you last emptied it.

2 Click the files or folders that you want to restore. For instructions on how

to select multiple files and folders, see “Using shortcuts” on page 39.

3 Click File, then click Restore. Windows returns the deleted files or folders

to their original locations.

Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently

erases any files or folders in the bin. These

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

emptying Recycle Bi n in the Sear ch box,

files cannot be restored.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Caution

then click the arrow.

To empty the Recycle Bin:

1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window

opens.

2 Click File, then click Empty Recycle Bin. Windows asks you if you are sure

that you want to empty the bin.

3 Click Ye s . Windows permanently deletes all files in the Recycle Bin.

32

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Searching for files

If you are looking for a particular file or folder or a set of files or folders that have
characteristics in common, but you do not remember where they are stored on
your hard drive, you can use the Search utility to search by:

You can also combine search criteria to refine searches.

Files and folders found using this utility can be opened, copied, cut, renamed,
or deleted directly from the list in the results window.

Using the Windows Search utility

Searching for files

■ Name or part of a name

■ Creation date

■ Modification date

■ File type

■ Text contained in the f ile

■ Time period in which it was created or modified

To find files and folders using the Search utility:

1 Click Start, then click Search. The Search Results window opens. Click All

files and folders.

2 If you want to search by file or folder name, type in all or part of the file

or folder name in the name box in the left pane of the window.

■ If you type all of the name, Search will list all files and folders of

that name.

■ If you type part of the name, Search will list all of the file and folder

names containing the letters you typed.

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CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

3 Click Search. When the search is completed, Windows lists the files and

folders whose names contain the text that you searched for.

4 Open a file, folder, or program by double-clicking the name in the list.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

searching in the Search box, then click

the arrow.

Browsing for files and folders

Using advanced search options

Search can find files meeting more criteria than file name. You can narrow your
search by selecting the search options that you want. You can search by the:

■ Date the file was created or modified.

■ Size of the file.

■ Type of file, such as a program or a text document.

A file or folder that you need is rarely right on top of your Windows desktop. It
is usually on a drive inside a folder that may be inside yet another folder, and
so on.

Windows drives, folders, and files are organized in the same way as a real file
cabinet in that they may have many levels (usually many more levels than a file
cabinet, in fact). So you will usually have to search through levels of folders to
find the file or folder that you need. This is called browsing.

34

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Searching for files

To browse for a file:

1 Click Start, then click My Computer. The My Computer window opens.

2 Double-click the drive or folder that you think contains the file or folder

that you want to find. If you do not see the contents of a folder, click Show
the contents of this drive or Show the contents of this folder.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

files and folders in the Search box, then

click the arrow.

3 Continue double-clicking folders and their subfolders until you find

the file or folder you want.

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CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

Working with documents

Computer documents include word processing files, spreadsheet files, or other
similar files. The basic methods of creating, saving, opening, and printing a
document apply to most of these types of files.

Creating a new document

The following examples show how to create, save, open, and print a document
using Microsoft
WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.

For more information about using a program, click Help on its menu bar.

To create a new document:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, then click WordPad. Microsoft

WordPad starts and a blank document opens.

®

WordPad. Similar procedures apply to other programs such as

36

2 Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at

the top of the window to format the document.

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Saving a document

Working with documents

After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later.

To save a document:

1 Click File, then click Save. The SaveAs dialog box opens.

Save in

list

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

saving in the Search box, then click the

Opening a document

File

name

2 Click the arrow button to open the Save in list, then click the folder where

you want to save the file. If you do not see the folder you want, browse
through the folders listed below the Save in list.

3 Type a new file name in the File name box.

4 Click Save.

arrow.

To view, revise, or print an existing document, first you need to open it. Open
the document in the program that it was created in.

To open a document:

1 Start the program.

2 Click File, then click Open.

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CHAPTER 4: Using Windows XP www.emachines.com

3 Click the arrow button to open the Look in list, then click the folder you

want to open. If you do not see the folder you want, browse through the
folders listed below the Look in list.

Look in list

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword
opening files in the Search box, then

click the arrow.

Printing a document

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

printing in the Search box, then click the

4 Double-click the document file name. The document opens.

To print a document, you must have a printer connected to your computer or
have access to a network printer. For more information about installing or using
your printer, see the printer documentation, or “Installing a printer, scanner, or

other peripheral device” on page 13. For information on installing a printer on

your network, see “Adding a printer to your network” on page 62.

To print a document:

1 Make sure that the printer is turned on and loaded with paper.

2 Start the program and open the document.

3 Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens.

4 Set the print options, then click OK. The document prints.

arrow.

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Using shortcuts

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword
Windows keyboard shortcuts in the

Search box, then click the arrow.

Using shortcuts

The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and
almost all programs that run in Windows. For more information about shortcuts,
see your Windows or program documentation.

To... Do this...

Copy a file, folder, text, or graphic Click the item, then press CTR L + C.

Cut a file, folder, text, or graphic Click the item, then press C

Paste a file, folder, text, or graphic Click inside the folder or window where you want to paste the object,

then press C

Select multiple items in a list or window Click the first item, press and hold down the C

of the remaining items.

Select multiple adjacent items in a list or
window

Permanently delete a file or folder Click the file or folder, then press S

Rename a file or folder Click the file or folder, press F2, type the new name, then press ENTER.

Close the active window or program Press A

Switch to a different file, folder, or
running program

Click the first item in the list, press and hold down the SHIFT key, then
click the last item in the list.

permanently deleted. The file or folder is not stored in the Recycle Bin.

Press ALT + TAB.

TRL + V.

LT + F4.

TRL + X.

TRL key, then click each

HIFT + DELETE. The file or folder is

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40

CHAPTER 5

Using the Internet

• Learning about the Internet

• Setting up an Internet account

•Using the WorldWideWeb

•Using e-mail

CHAPTER 5: Using the Internet www.emachines.com

Learning about the Internet

The Internet is a worldwide network of computers linked together to provide
information to people everywhere. The two most popular services on the
Internet are e-mail and the World Wide Web. You can access this network by
connecting your computer to a telephone, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), or cable
television line and signing up with an Internet service provider (ISP).

Internet Servers

store information so other
computers can access it from the
Internet.

Your computer
connects to the
Internet through an
ISP.

To determ ine if you have an Ethe rnet jack

on your computer, see your computer’s

Important

setup poster.

ISP Servers
let you connect to the
Internet and access your
e-mail messages.

If you want to access the Internet you need:

■ A modem—a device that connects your computer to other computers or

servers using a telephone, DSL, or cable television line. Your computer may
have a built-in dial-up telephone modem. Cable and DSL modems connect
to your computer through an Ethernet jack and provide a faster
connection speed than a standard, dial-up telephone modem.

■ An Internet service provider—a company that provides access to the

Internet through an ISP server. When you connect to an ISP, the ISPserver lets
you access the Internet and your e-mail messages. Check your telephone
book for a list of Internet service providers available locally.

■ A Web browser—a program that displays information from the World

Wide Web. Microsoft Internet Explorer was included with your computer.
For more information, see “Using the World Wide Web” on page 43.

■ An e-mail program—a program that lets you create, send, and receive

e-mail messages over the Internet. Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express
was included with your computer. For more information, see “Using

e-mail” on page 46.

42

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Setting up an Internet account

Before you can view the information on the World Wide Web, you need to set
up an Internet account with an Internet service provider (ISP). To set up an ISP
service or to transfer an existing account to this computer, contact the ISP
directly.

Dial-up Internet connections are those using a telephone system to connect to
the Internet. This may include ordinary analog telephone lines, ISDN
connections, and in some cases ADSL over PPP or other technologies. Because
dial-up connections are designed to be temporary connections to the Internet,
dial-up charges (with both your telephone company and Internet service
provider) often increase the longer you connect to the Internet. To minimize the
cost for dial-up Internet users, we suggest that you only connect to the Internet
during your e-mail and Web browsing session, then disconnect when you are
finished. Your Internet service provider can provide instructions on how to
connect to and disconnect from the Internet.

Cable and DSL modems, connections known as broadband, use your cable
television or special telephone lines to connect to your ISP and access the
Internet. In many instances, broadband is considered an always-connected
service. With this type of service, your cost is the same regardless of the amount
of time you use your Internet connection.

Setting up an Internet account

Accessing your Internet account

The method you use to access your Internet account varies from ISP to ISP.
Contact your ISP for the correct procedure.

For general information about using

Internet accounts, click Start, then click

Help and Suppor t. Type the keyword ISP

in the Search box, then click the arrow.

Help and Support

Using the World Wide Web

The World Wide Web is a multimedia window to the Internet that gives you
access to millions of information sources.

Information on the Web comes to you on Web pages, which are electronic
documents that you view using a Web page display program called a browser.
You can use any of the commercially available Web browsers, like Microsoft
Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.

Web pages can contain text, animations, music, and other multimedia features.
A group of related Web pages is called a Web site. You can access Web sites to
shop, track investments, read the news, download programs, and much more.

You can explore a Web site, or visit other Web sites, by clicking areas on a Web
page called links or hyperlinks. A link may be colored or underlined text, a
picture, or an animated image. You can identify a link by moving the mouse or
touchpad pointer over it. If the pointer changes to a hand, the item is a link.

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CHAPTER 5: Using the Internet www.emachines.com

To learn more about using the Web browser features, click Help in the menu bar.

Link

Web

page

Linked Web

page

Connecting to a Web site

For general information about using

Internet accounts, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

connecting to Web site in the Search

Help and Support

box, then click the arrow.

After you set up an account with an Internet service provider (ISP), you can
access the many information sources on the World Wide Web.

To connect to a Web site:

1 Connect to your Internet account.

2 Depending on the method you use to connect to your Internet account,

you may need to start your Web browser. Click Start, then click Internet.
Your default Web browser opens showing an opening page or welcome
screen.

3 To go to a different Web site, type the address (called a URL for “Universal

Resource Locator”) in the browser address bar (for example
www.emachines.com), then click GO on the browser address bar.

- OR -

On the current Web page, click a link to a Web site.

The Web browser locates the server computer on the Internet, downloads
(transfers) data to your computer, and displays the page on the site that
you requested.

44

Sometimes Web pages display slowly. The speed that a Web page displays on
your screen depends on the complexity of the Web page and other Internet
conditions. Additionally, the speed of your connection will determine how fast
Web pages display.

www.emachines.com

Using the World Wide Web

To protect your children from accessing
objectionable Web sites, use the Parental
Control feature in McAfee SecurityCenter.

Tips & Tricks

Downloading files

To protect your computer against viruses,

make sure that you scan the files you

download. For more information, see

“Protecting your computer from viruses”

Caution

on page 111.

Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the Internet

to your computer.

To download files or programs from a Web site:

1 Connect to your Internet account.

2 In the address bar, type the address of the Web site that contains the file

or program you want to download, then click GO on the browser address
bar.

- OR -

Click a link on a Web page to navigate to the Web site containing the file
that you want to download.

3 Create or locate the folder where you want to store the file on your

computer. For more information, see “Working with files and folders” on

page 29.

For general information about using

Internet accounts, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword
downloading files in the Search box,

Help and Support

then click the arrow.

4 Click the link on the Web page for the file that you want to download.

5 Follow the on-screen instructions for saving the file in the folder that you

want. A copy of the file is downloaded to your computer. The time that it
takes to transfer the file to your computer depends on file size and Internet
conditions.

6 Open the folder that you created.

7 Install or view the downloaded file by double-clicking it. If applicable,

follow the instructions provided on the Web site to run or install the
program.

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CHAPTER 5: Using the Internet www.emachines.com

Using e-mail

E-mail (electronic mail) lets you send messages to anyone who has an Internet
connection and e-mail address. E-mail is usually a free service of your Internet
account.

The Internet never closes, so you can send e-mail messages at any time. Your
e-mail messages arrive at most e-mail addresses in minutes.

An e-mail address consists of a user name, the @ symbol, and the Internet
domain name of the Internet service provider (ISP) or company that “hosts” that
user. Your e-mail address is assigned when you sign up for an account with an
ISP. For example, a person with an account with Hotmail might have an e-mail
address that is similar to this one:

[e-mail]

User name Internet domain name

Sending e-mail

Most e-mail prog rams let you attach files,
such as photographs, to your e-mail. For

more information, see the help for your

Tips & Tricks

e-mail program.

To send e-mail using Outlook or Outlook Express:

1 Connect to your Internet service provider.

2 Click Start, then click E-Mail. Your default e-mail program opens.

3 Click New.

4 Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in the

To box.

5 Type the subject of your e-mail in the Subject box.

6 Type the e-mail message.

7 When finished, click Send. Your e-mail is sent over the Internet to the

e-mail address you specified.

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Checking your e-mail

Using e-mail

To protect your computer from viruses,

Tips & Tricks

check any e-mail attachments using

McAfee SecurityCenter. For more

information, see “Protecting your

computer from viruses” on page 111.

For general information about using

Internet accounts, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

e-mail in the Search box, then click the

Help and Support

arrow.

To check your e-mail using Outlook Express:

1 Connect to your Internet service provider.

2 Click Start, then click E-Mail. Your default e-mail program opens.

3 Click Send/Receive.

4 Double-click the message you want to read.

For more information about managing and organizing your e-mail messages,
see the online help in your e-mail program.

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CHAPTER 5: Using the Internet www.emachines.com

48

CHAPTER 6

Networking Your Computer

• Introduction to Networking

• Creating an Ethernet network

•Sharing resources

• Using the network

• Adding a printer to your network

CHAPTER 6: Networking Your Computer www.emachines.com

Introduction to Networking

An Ethernet network consists of two or more computers connected together
through an Ethernet cable. This connection type is commonly used in offices
around the world and can also be used to build computer networks in the home.

Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, or Gigabit Ethernet

Ethernet is available at three different speeds. Standard Ethernet runs at
10 Mbps, Fast Ethernet runs at 100 Mbps, and Gigabit Ethernet runs at
1000 Mbps. Most home networks are built using Standard or Fast Ethernet
components. Business networks are typically built using Fast or Gigabit Ethernet
components.

Check local code requirements before

installing Ethernet cable or other wiring

in your home or office. Your municipality

may require you to obtain a permit and

Important

hire a licensed installer.

Using a router

To create an Ethernet network, you or your electrician must install special
Ethernet cables in your home or office.

The most common way to set up an Ethernet network is Dynamic Host Control
Protocol (DHCP) using a router. A DHCP network configuration uses a router to
automatically assign IP addresses to each computer or network device.

50

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Introduction to Networking

Example router-based Ethernet network

The following is an example of an Ethernet network. The network is made up
of a router, your computers, and cables connecting each of these components.
The router is the central control point for the network. Attached to the router
are all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to the
router is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.

Cable or DSL
modem

Router

To add the ability to access a wireless

Ethernet network to your wired Ethernet

network, connect an access point to the
router or use a router that has a built-in

access point, such as the Linksys wireless

access point router with 4-port switch.

Important

Tips & Tricks

For best results, Ethernet network

components should be either all

standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), all Fast

Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100), or all

Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or

10/100/1000). A mixture of components

rated at different speeds will re sult in your

network running at the speed of the

slowest rated component.

Tips & Tricks

When buying your router, make sure that

the model includes everything your

Internet security features, such as a

firewall, to protect your network from

a 4-port switch to eliminate the need for

assignment to automatically configure

network needs, including

unwanted intruders,

additional network hardware, and

DHCP server/dynamic IP address

network and IP addresses.

Equipment you need for a router-based Ethernet network

For an Ethernet network you need:

■ Two or more computers with Ethernet jacks

■ One router

■ Ethernet cables connecting all of the network equipment

■ One broadband Internet connection (optional)

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Determining if an Ethernet device is already installed on your computer

To determine if Ethernet is already installed on your computer:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and

Maintenance.

2 Click/Double-click System, click the Hardware tab, then click Device

Manager. The Device Manager window opens.

3 Click the plus (+) in front of Network adapters. The Ethernet device

installed in your computer is listed. If one is not listed, you must install one.

Creating an Ethernet network

Installing Ethernet cards and drivers

After you have determined the type of Ethernet you are using for your network,
you need to install Ethernet cards and drivers on the computers that do not have
Ethernet already installed. Use the documentation that comes with your
Ethernet cards for instructions on installing the card and any required drivers.
For information on installing cards in your computer, see “Adding or replacing

an expansion card” on page 161.

Making sure your broadband connection works

If you do not have a broadband

connection already installed, make the

necessary arrangements with your ISP. Be

sure to find out how soon after the

installation the line will be activated.

Broadband Internet settings will differ

from ISP to ISP. Before you begin setting

up your network, you should contact

your ISP for any specific instructions they

have for setting up a network.

Important

Before you change anything about your home setup, make sure that your
broadband connection is working correctly. To test the connection, log onto the
Internet using your current setup. If the connection is not working, contact your
Internet service provider.

Important

Naming the computers and the workgroup

You must give each computer on the

network a unique Computer Name and

the same Workgroup Name.

Important

To identify this computer on the network:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and
Maintenance. The Performance and Maintenance window opens.

52

2 Click/Double-click System. The System Properties dialog box opens.

3 Click Computer Name.

www.emachines.com

Configuring the TCP/IP protocol

A networking protocol is a language computers use to talk to each other. One
of several available protocols must be set up on each computer you plan to use
on your network. We recommend you use the Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), which is widely accepted and compatible
for local area networks (LANs), as well as for Internet communications.

Creating an Ethernet network

4 Click Change. The Computer Name Changes dialog box opens.

5 Type a unique computer name in the Computer name box. This name

identifies the computer to other users on the network. Use a computer
name of up to 15 characters with no blank spaces. Each computer name
must be unique on your network. All-numeric computer names are not
allowed. Names must contain some letters.

6 Type a name for your workgroup in the Workgroup box. Use a workgroup

name of up to 15 characters with no blank spaces. The workgroup name
must be the same for all computers in your network workgroup, and the
name must be different than any computer name on your network.

7 Click OK to close the Computer Name Changes dialog box.

When networking is set up in Windows XP, TCP/IP is automatically installed as
the default protocol.

Terms you should know

DHCP—Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) lets a router temporarily
assign an IP address to a computer on the network.

IP Address—Internet Protocol (IP) address is a number that uniquely identifies
a computer on the network.

Subnet Mask—Subnet mask is a number that identifies what subnetwork the
computer is located on. This number will be the same on all computers on a
home network.

Using a DHCP server

In order to use the TCP/IP protocol on each computer with a router or access
point router, you must set the option to “Obtain an IP address from a DHCP
server.”

To use a DHCP server

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Network and Internet

Connections. The Network and Internet Connections window opens.

2 Click/Double-click Network Connections. The Network Connections

window opens.

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CHAPTER 6: Networking Your Computer www.emachines.com

3 Right-click Local Area Connection, then click Properties. The Local Area

Connection Properties dialog box opens.

- OR -

If you do not have a LAN connection setup, click Create a new connection
and follow the instructions in the New Connection Wizard.

4 Click to select the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) check box in the This

connection uses the following items list. If you do not see TCP/IP, drag

the scroll bar to see more choices.

5 Click Properties. The Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box opens.

6 Click the General tab.

54

7 Click Obtain an IP address automatically.

8 Click OK to close the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box.

www.emachines.com

Setting up an Ethernet network

Creating an Ethernet network

9 Click OK to close the Local Area Connection Properties dialog box.

10 Click X to close the Network Connections window.

11 Repeat this procedure for every computer on your network.

Category 5 cables are available in two

different types; straight-through cables,

used to connect computers to a router,

and crossover cables, used to connect

To determine which type of cable you

have, hold both ends of the cable with the

connectors facing away from you and

with the spring clip on the bottom. For
straight-through cable, the wires on both
connectors are attached to copper pins in
the same order (same colors, left to right).

For a crossover cable, the wires on each

connector are attached to the copper

pins in a different order (different colors,

Important

two computers.

left to right).

We recommend using category 5, unshielded, twisted-pair cable
(approximately 1/4” in diameter with a thin outer-jacket, containing eight
color-coded wires), and equipment compatible with this type of cable. This type
of cable is equipped with RJ-45 connectors (like a large telephone jack
connector, but with eight pins) on each end.

Setting up a network using a router

If you are setting up a network for more than two computers and you will be
connecting your network to a high-speed Broadband Internet connection
(cable or DSL modem), we recommend the use of a router. A router lets you
access the Internet connection from any network computer. The router can
assign IP addresses to the computers on the network and can provide firewall
protection for your network as well.

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CHAPTER 6: Networking Your Computer www.emachines.com

In addition to a router, you need a straight-through cable for each computer
you want to connect to the network.

Cable/DSL
modem

Router

WAN por t

To set up a network using a router:

1 Plug one end of the power adapter into the AC connector on the router

and the other end into a grounded, 110V electrical outlet.

2 Turn on your computers.

3 Plug one end of a straight-through network cable into any numbered port

on the router (except the WAN port). The WAN port is used to connect the
router to the DSL or cable modem, and is identified by a label or a switch.
Plug the other end of the cable into the network connector on the
computer. As each computer is connected to the router, the
corresponding green indicator should light on the front of the router,
indicating a good connection.

4 Repeat Step 3 for each computer on the network.

5 For an Internet connection, plug a straight-through cable into the WAN

port on the router and the other end into the Ethernet jack on the DSL or
cable modem.

56

www.emachines.com

Configuring your router

Creating an Ethernet network

After you have named your computers and set up TCP/IP on them, you can
configure your router using your Web browser. For these instructions, we
assume that you are using the router to connect your network to a high-speed
Broadband Internet connection through an Internet service provider (ISP) and
that you are configuring it as a DHCP server.

The following configuration information

applies to the Linksys® EtherFast

Cable/DSL routers. For any other brand or

model of router, see the manufacturer’s

documentation, which may accompany

the router or be available from the

manufacturer’s Web site.

Important

To configure the Linksys EtherFast Cable/DSL router:

1 From one of the computers connected to the network, open your Web

browser, type

NTER.

E

2 When prompted for a username and password, leave the username box

empty and type
opens.

3 Enter the following values in the appropriate fields:

■ Router Name and Domain Name—Check with your ISP to see if

entries are required in these fields and, if so, what entries are
required. Normally, leaving the fields blank will work.

■ LAN IP Address—We recommend that you accept the defaults.

■ WAN IP Address—If your ISP assigns you a different IP address

each time you log on, click Obtain an IP Address Automatically.
If your ISP requires a fixed IP address, click Specify an IP Address,
then type the values provided by your ISP.

4 When you are finished entering information on the Setup page, click

Apply.

5 Click the DHCP tab on the top of the screen.

6 Click the Enable checkbox, then click Apply.

http://192.168.1.1 in the browser’s address box, then press

admin in the password box, then click OK. The Setup page

Testing your network

7 Press the reset button on your cable or DSL modem, then restart the

computer. Your network should be running. Go to “Testing your network”

on page 57.

Now that your home network is set up, log onto one of your computers and
access a favorite Internet Web site.

If you are unable to connect to the Internet:

■ Run the New Connection Wizard (for more information, see “To use the

Internet Connection Wizard:” on page 139)

■ Check all physical cable connections

■ Compare the status lights on the front of the router or access point with

the patterns described in the router or access point literature

■ Temporarily turn off any firewall software on your desktop computer

■ Turn off all of the devices, then power them back on, cable or DSL modem

first, router second, and computers last.

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CHAPTER 6: Networking Your Computer www.emachines.com

■ Refer to your router’s or access point’s troubleshooting information

■ Contact your Internet service provider

Sharing resources

With a network, you can share your Internet connection, drives, and printers.

Sharing drives and printers

With a network, you can share drives (for example hard drives and DVD drives)
and printers among the computers connected to the network.

After the drives and printers on each network computer are shared, you can
access them as though they were attached directly to your computer. Then you
can:

■ View a network drive

■ Open and copy files stored on other network computers

■ Print documents on network printers

To share a printer among the network
computers, each computer must have

the shared printer’s drivers installed.

Follow the instructions included with

your printer to install the printer drivers

Important

on each computer.

Sharing drives or folders

To share drives or folders:

1 In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right-click the drive or folder that

you want to share, then click Sharing and Security. The folder properties
dialog box opens.

If you share a drive, the entire contents of that drive will be available to
everyone on your network. If you share a folder, only the contents of that
folder will be available to everyone on the network.

2 Click the Sharing tab.

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Sharing resources

3 If this is the first time you have shared a drive or folder, click Network

Setup Wizard to enable remote access, then follow the on-screen

instructions.

- OR -

If you have previously enabled remote file access and you want to share
a drive or folder with others on the network (network sharing), click to
select the Share this folder on the network check box, type a shared
name in the Shared name box. To let other users have full permissions
to read and write to the shared drive or folder, click to select the Allow

network users to change my files check box.

4 Click OK.

Un-sharing drives, folders, and files

To un-share drives or folders:

1 In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right-click the drive or folder that

you want to un-share, then click Sharing and Security.

2 Make sure that the Share this folder on the network check box is not

selected.

3 Click OK.

Sharing printers

To share printers:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other

Hardware.

2 Click/Double-click the Printers and Faxes icon. The Printers and Faxes

window opens.

3 Right-click the name of the printer you want to share, then click Sharing.

4 Click Share this printer.

5 Click OK.

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CHAPTER 6: Networking Your Computer www.emachines.com

Using the network

After the drives and printers on each network computer are shared, you can:

■ View shared drives and folders

■ Map a network drive

■ Open and copy files stored on other network computers

■ Print documents on network printers

Viewing shared drives and folders

To view shared drives and folders:

1 Click Start, then click My Network Places. The My Network Places window

opens.

2 Click/Double-click Entire Network. The Entire Network window opens. If

you do not see the contents of the network after you double-click Entire
Network, click entire contents.

For more information about workgroups,
click Start, then click Help and Support.

Type the keyword workgroups in the

Help and Support

Search box, then click the arrow.

Mapping a network drive

3 Double-click Microsoft Windows Network.

4 Double-click the name of your workgroup. The names of each of the

computers in your workgroup are listed.

5 Double-click the name of the computer containing the drive or folder you

want to view. All shared drives and folders on that computer are listed.

After a drive or folder on one computer is mapped as a drive on another
computer, the contents of the drive or folder can be accessed as if the drive were
attached directly to the computer.

For example, the My Documents folder on computer 1 is mapped as the Z drive
on computer 2. To access the My Documents folder on computer 1 from
computer 2, double-click the Z drive.

To map a network drive:

1 Locate the drive or folder by completing the steps in “Viewing shared

drives and folders” on page 60.

2 Right-click the drive or folder, then click Map Network Drive. The Map

Network Drive wizard opens.

60

3 Click the arrow button to open the Drive list, then click the drive letter

you want to map this drive or folder to.

4 Click Reconnect at Logon if you want to reconnect to this drive or folder

each time you log on to the network.

5 Click Finish.

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Opening files across the network

1 Start the program for the file you want to open.

2 Click File, then click Open.

3 Browse to the network drive that contains the file you want to open.

4 Double-click the folder containing the file, then double-click the file.

Copying files across the network

1 Click Start, then click My Computer. The My Computer window opens.

2 Browse to the network drive that contains the file you want to copy.

3 Browse to the file you want to copy.

Using the network

To open files across the network:

To copy files across the network:

4 Click the file.

5 Click Edit, then click Copy.

6 Double-click the folder where you want to copy the file to.

7 Click Edit, then click Paste.

Printing files across the network

Before you can print a file across the

network, you must install the driver for

the printer on the computer you are

sending the file from. You can obtain the

printer driver and installation

instructions from the CD that shipped

with your printer or from the

manufacturer’s Web site.

Important

1 Open the file you want to print.

2 Click File, then click Print.

3 Click the arrow button to open the printer name list, then click the network

4 Click OK.

To print files across the network:

printer.

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Adding a printer to your network

Instead of plugging a printer into your computer, you can add a printer to your
network. To add a printer to the network, do one of the following:

■ Connect your printer to your networked computer, then share the printer.

For information about sharing printers, see “Sharing drives and printers”

on page 58.

■ Connect your printer to your access point if the access point includes a

USB or parallel port. For more information, see the instructions that came
with your access point.

■ Use a printer that has built-in wireless networking.

■ Use a wireless print server.

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CHAPTER 7

Sending and Receiving Faxes

• Installing and configuring Fax

•Sending a simple fax

• Setting up your cover page template

• Faxing from programs

• Faxing a scanned document

• Receiving and viewing a fax

• Canceling a fax

• Automatically retry sending a fax

• Automatically canceling a fax

CHAPTER 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes www.emachines.com

Installing and configuring Fax

This chapter describes using Microsoft Fax and your dial-up modem. You cannot
send or receive a fax using a cable or DSL modem by following these
instructions. Many Internet services exist that let you send or receive faxes using
a broadband connection.

Your dial-up modem cable must be installed before you can send and receive
faxes. You cannot use your standard telephone modem to connect to the
Internet while sending and receiving faxes.

Installing Fax

Microsoft Fax lets you send and receive faxes using your dial-up modem. When
Windows was originally installed on your computer, Fax may not have been
installed.

To install Fax:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

Click/Double-click Add and Remove Programs. The Add or Remove
Programs dialog box opens. Click Add/Remove Windows Components.

The Windows Components Wizard opens.

2 Click Fax Services, then click Next.

3 Click Finish to exit the Windows Components Wizard.

4 Click Exit to close the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP dialog box.

-OR-

Click Close to close the Add or Remove Programs dialog box.

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Configuring Fax

Installing and configuring Fax

Before you send your first fax, you need to set up your user information. Your
fax cover sheets and fax headers contain this information, some of which is
required by law. The Fax Configuration Wizard opens the first time you try to
send a fax.

Configuration Wizard, you may need to

Information and the Phone and Modem

The first time you run the Fax

provide information in the Location

Important

Options dialog boxes.

To configure Microsoft Fax:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Fax Console. The Fax Configuration Wizard opens.

2 On the Welcome to Fax Configuration Wizard screen, click Next. The Sender

Information screen opens.

3 Type the information about yourself that you want to appear on your fax

cover page, then click Next. The Select Device for Sending or Receiving Faxes
screen opens.

4 Click the arrow to open the Please select the fax device list, then click

the modem you are using to send and receive faxes.

5 If you want the modem to automatically answer the telephone in order

to receive faxes, click the Enable Receive check box.

6 Click Next. The Transmitting Subscriber Identification (TSID) screen opens.

7 Type the transmitting fax identifier information. This identifier information

is required by law. You can type as many as 20 characters in the text box.
We suggest using eight characters for your identifier name, followed by
12 characters for your telephone number.

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Some fax machines cannot use special

characters such as hyphens. We suggest

using spaces instead of hyphens in

telephone and fax numbers.

Important

8 Click Next.

9 If you set up your computer to receive faxes, type the receiving fax

identifier information, then click Next. This identifier information is
required by law and can be the same identifier that you typed in Step 7.
The Routing Options screen opens.

10 If you set up your computer to receive faxes, select a folder you want to

store received faxes in and a printer you want to print received faxes on,
then click Next. The Configuration Summary screen opens.

11 Click Finish. The fax console opens.

12 If the Windows Security Alert dialog box opens, click Unblock.

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Sending a simple fax

You can use the Send Fax Wizard to send a simple one-page fax to one or more
recipients.

Sending a simple fax

To send a simple fax:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Send a Fax. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

2 On the Welcome to Fax Configuration Wizard screen, click Next. The

Recipient Information screen opens.

3 Type the name and fax number of the recipient of your fax.

4 If you need to use the area code for your recipient, click Use dialing rules

to type the full ten-digit fax number.

5 If you want to send you r fax to m ore than one recipient, click Add and type

the name and fax number of the next recipient.

6 When you have added all your recipients, click Next. The Preparing the

Cover Page screen opens.

7 Click the arrow to open the Cover page template, then click the cover

page template you want to use.

8 Type the subject text in the Subject line area.

9 Type the message text in the Note area, then click Next. The Schedule

screen opens.

10 Select when you want to send the fax and a priority for the fax, then click

Next. The Completing the Send Fax Wizard screen opens.

11 Click Finish.

12 If the Windows Security Alert dialog box opens (see page 66), click

Unblock.

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Setting up your cover page template

You can create your own cover page template that you can use in place of the
cover page templates that Microsoft Fax provides for you. To create a cover page
template, you use the Fax Cover Page Editor. On this template, you insert
information fields that automatically import values you enter in both the Send
Fax Wizard and the Fax Configuration Wizard when you send your fax.

To set up your fax cover page template:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Fax Cover Page Editor. The Cover Page-Fax Cover Page Editor opens. If
the Cover Page Editor Tips dialog box opens, click OK.

■ If you want to include fields that are imported from the Send Fax

Wizard or the Fax Configuration Wizard (such as To or From), add
them to the page by using the Insert menu, then move them to
the appropriate place on your template. You can also use the Insert
menu to include information that is automatically calculated (such
as number of pages or date and time sent).

■ If you want to include text that always appears on your cover page

(such as a letterhead or address), draw a box using the text box tool,
type your text inside of it, then move the box to the appropriate
place on your template.

■ If you want to include a logo that appears on your cover page, copy

it to the Windows clipboard, then paste it into the Cover Page Editor
and move it to the appropriate place on your template.

2 To save your cover page template, click File, then click Save As. The Save

As dialog box opens with your personal cover pages folder already in the

Save in list.

3 Type the new cover page template name.

4 Click Save.

Faxing from programs

1 Open your document in the program it was created in.

2 Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens.

3 Click the arrow button to open the Name list, then click the Fax printer.

4 Click Print. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

5 Complete the wizard by following the instructions in “Sending a simple

To fax a document directly from most programs:

fax” on page 67.

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Faxing a scanned document

To fax a document that you have scanned:

1 Scan the document using the program for your scanner.

2 With the scanned file open, click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box

opens.

3 Click the arrow button to open the Name list, then click the Fax printer.

4 Click Print. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

5 Complete the wizard by following the instructions in “Sending a simple

fax” on page 67.

Receiving and viewing a fax

To receive and view a fax:

Faxing a scanned document

Canceling a fax

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Fax Console. The Fax Console opens. When the Fax Console is open, it

detects incoming faxes and stores them in the Inbox.

2 To view a fax, click Inbox, then double-click the fax you want to view. The

fax viewer opens, where you can view and print the fax.

You can cancel a fax that you have set up to send at a time in the future.

To cancel a fax that has not been sent:

1 If Fax is not open, click Start, All Programs, Accessories,

Communications, Fax, then click Fax Console. The Fax Console opens.

2 Click Outbox, then right-click the fax you want to cancel.

3 Click Delete to cancel the fax.

4 Click Ye s .

Automatically retry sending a fax

You can set up Fax so it continues to try sending your fax if the receiving fax
machine is busy.

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Fax is automatically set up to retry three

times at ten minute intervals.

Important

To automatically retry sending a fax:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

2 If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other

Hardware. Click View installed printers or fax printers. The Printers and

Faxe s window opens.

-OR-

If your Control Panel is in Classic View, double-click the Printers and Faxes
icon. The Printers and Faxes window opens.

3 Right-click Fa x, then click Properties. The Fax Proper ties dialog box opens.

4 Click the Devices tab, then click Properties. The Modem dialog box opens.

5 Specify the number of retries and the amount of time between retries.

6 Click OK.

Automatically canceling a fax

If your computer tried to send a fax and failed to connect to a fax machine, you
can automatically cancel the failed fax.

To automatically cancel a failed fax:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

2 If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other

Hardware. Click View installed printers or fax printers. The Printers and

Faxe s window opens.

-OR-

If your Control Panel is in Classic View, double-click the Printers and Faxes
icon. The Printers and Faxes window opens.

3 Right-click Fa x, then click Properties. The Fax Proper ties dialog box opens.

4 Click the Devices tab, then click Properties. The Modem dialog box opens.

5 Click the Cleanup tab.

6 Click to select the Automatically delete failed faxes after check box and

specify the number of days.

7 Click OK.

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CHAPTER 8

Using Drives and Ports

• Using the memory card reader

• Using the CD or DVD drive

• Using a second monitor

• Viewing the display on a television

• Using Windows Media Center

•Using multimedia

• Playing music and movies

• Creating audio files and music
libraries

• Creating and editing videos

• Creating music CDs and video DVDs

• Advanced multimedia software
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Using the memory card reader

You can use the optional memory card reader to transfer pictures from a digital
camera to your computer. You can also use the memory card reader to transfer
data between your computer and a device that uses memory cards, such as a
PDA, MP3 player, or cellular telephone.

Memory card types

Activity
indicator

The memory card reader supports the following card types:

Memory card reader
slots

Card Type Slot Insert

Secure Digital

MultiMediaCard

SM (SmartMedia™) left Label facing down (gold contact

Memory Stick

Memory Stick PRO

xD (optional) left Label facing up

Comp actFlash

IBM Microdrive

™

™

®

™

®

™

left Label facing up

left Label facing up

area facing up)

left Label facing up

left Label facing up

right Label facing up

right Label facing up

72

Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, the E: and F: drives)
so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.

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Using a memory card

Using the CD or DVD drive

To avoid memory card damage or errors

while using a memory card, insert only

one memory card in a slot at a time.

Caution

To insert a memory card:

1 Insert the memory card into the memory card slot as indicated in the

previous table.

Do not remove the memory card or turn

off the computer while the memory card

reader access indicator is blinking. You

could lose data. Also, remove the

memory card from the reader before you

turn off the computer.

Caution

2 To access a file on the memory card, click Start, then click My Computer.

Double-click the drive letter (for example, the E: drive), then double-click
the file name.

To remove a memory card:

Important

hardware icon in the taskbar to

Do not use the remove

remove the memory card.

■ Wait for the memory card reader access indicator to stop blinking, then

pull the memory card out of the slot.

Using the CD or DVD drive

You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features.

Identifying drive types

Your computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front
of the drive for one or more of the following logos:

If your drive has this
logo...

This is your drive
type...

CD drive

CD-RW drive

DVD/CD-RW drive

DVD drive

DVD+RW

Use your drive for...

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, and accessing
data.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, accessing
data, and creating CDs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, accessing
data, creating CDs, and playing DVDs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs,
and accessing data.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs,
accessing data, and recording video and data to
DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.

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Inserting a CD or DVD

If your drive has this
logo...

This is your drive
type...

DVD R/RW drive

Double layer
DVD+RW

DVD-RAM

Use your drive for...

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs,
accessing data, and recording video and data to
DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and DVD-RW discs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs,
accessing data, and recording video and data to
double layer DVD+R discs.
Note: To use the double layer capability of the double
layer recordable DVD drive, the blank DVDs you
purchase must state Double Layer, Dual Layer, or DL.
Using other types of blank media will result in less
capacity.

Installing programs, accessing data, and recording
video and data to DVD-RAM discs.

Some music CDs have copy protection

software. You may not be able to play

these CDs on your computer.

When you place a single-sided disc in the

tray, make sure that the label side is

facing up. If the disc has two playable

sides, place the disc so the name of the

side you want to play is facing up.

Important

Important

Activity indicator
(location varies)

Manual eject hole
(location varies)

Eject
button

To insert a CD or DVD:

1 Press the eject button on the CD or DVD drive.

2 Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up.

3 Press the eject button to close the tray.

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Using a second monitor

If your computer’s video card supports it (it must have two video connections),
you can connect an additional monitor or projector to your computer.

Using a second monitor

The dialog boxes shown in this section

are examples only and may not represent

the actual screens on your computer.

For the location of the VGA port on your

computer, see the setup poster or “Back”

Important

Tips & Tricks

on page 10.

To use a projector or additional monitor:

1 Turn off your computer.

2 Plug the projector or monitor cable into the secondary VGA port on

your computer.

3 Turn on your computer.

4 Plug the projector or monitor power cord into an AC power outlet, then

turn it on. Windows recognizes the new hardware and searches for its
driver. You may need to install the driver from the disc supplied by the
manufacturer or download the driver from the manufacturer’s Web site.

5 After the driver is installed, right-click any empty space on the desktop,

then click Properties. The Display Properties dialog box opens.

6 Click the Settings tab.

7 Right-click the second monitor icon (labeled 2), then click Attached.

8 Click Apply.

9 Adjust properties such as Screen Resolution or Color Quality if

necessary.

10 Click OK.

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Viewing the display on a television

The TV out feature is available only on

computers that have a Video out or

S-Video out jack. computer.

The dialog boxes shown in this section

are examples only and may not represent

the actual screens on your computer.

To turn on external video by default,

connect the television (or other external

video device) before starting your

Audio is not transmitted through the

Video out or S-Video out jacks. Use a set

of headphones or external powered

speakers to hear sound while playing a

DVD. DVD playback to a VCR will be

scrambled by copyright protection

For the location of the video jacks on your
computer, see the setup poster or “Back”

Important

Important

Important

computer.

Important

software.

Tips & Tricks

on page 10.

The Video out or S-Video out jack on your computer lets you view your display
on a television screen using a standard RCA or S-Video cable.

To view your computer display on a television:

1 With your computer off, connect one end of an appropriate video cable

to the Video out or S-Video out jack on your computer.

2 Connect the other end of the cable to the Video in jack on your television

or VCR.

3 Turn on the television or VCR.

4 Start your computer.

5 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

6 Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box

opens.

7 Click the Settings tab.

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Viewing the display on a television

8 Click Advanced. The Multiple Monitors Properties dialog box opens.

Enable TV

TV

If the Enable TV and TV buttons are

grayed out, your computer has not

detected the television. Make sure that

the television is turned on and connected

Important

correctly.

9 Click the Displays tab.

10 Click the Enable TV button if it is not already enabled, then click Apply.

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Modifying television settings

To modify television settings:

1 On the Multiple Monitors Properties dialog box Displays tab, click TV. The

TV Properties dialog box opens.

2 Modify the settings, then click OK.

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Using Windows Media Center

If your computer came with Windows Media Center installed and with a Media
Center remote control (optional), you can use the remote control to watch TV,
videos, and DVDs, to listen to music, and to view photos. (The remote control
included with your Media Center may look different.) For detailed setup
information, see your Media Center setup poster.

Using Windows Media Center

Shortcut buttons

Audio/Video (A/V) control

buttons

Numeric

keypad/data

entry buttons

Start button

Power
button

Transport buttons

Navigation buttons

Button(s) Functions

Shortcut buttons Give you direct access to Media Center features.

Start button Opens the Media Center’s main menu.

Audio/Video (A/V)
control buttons

Numeric keypad/data
entry button

Power button Puts the Media Center computer in Standby mode (reduced power).

Transport buttons Let you replay recorded (buffered) TV and radio programs and play the

Control volume levels, volume mute, channel selections, and the DVD
menu.

Lets you enter numbers and characters from the remote control.

CD and DVD player.

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Button(s) Functions

Navigation buttons Let you move the cursor around the Guide and menus, make selections,

navigate back to the previous screen, change the screen display aspect
ratio, and get more information. Press the
selection.

To use the Media Center remote control:

1 Press the Start button on the remote control. The Media Center

software starts.

2 Use the remote control navigation buttons to select a Media Center menu

option, then press OK.

Manually updating the Media Center Program Guide

You can use the Media Center Guide to view TV program schedules, search for
programs by genre, schedule program recordings, and more. When you first use
the Media Center setup wizard, the Program Guide is set up to automatically
download program information from your cable or satellite service provider.
However, on occasion, you may need to update the Program Guide manually.

To manually update the Media Center Program Guide:

1 Before starting Media Center, make sure that you are connected to the

Internet.

OK button to make a

Media Center requires Internet access to

update the Media Center Program Guide.

Make sure that you connect to the

Internet before continuing the manual

Program Guide update instructions.

Important

2 Press the Start button on the remote control. Media Center starts.

3 Navigate to Settings, then press OK. The Settings menu opens.

4 Navigate to TV, then press OK.

5 Navigate to Guide, then press OK.

6 Navigate to Get guide data, then press OK. The Guide Data dialog box

opens.

7 Select Ye s , then press OK. Media Center downloads the Program Guide

updates.

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Using multimedia

Adjusting the volume

Using multimedia

You can use the Windows volume controls to adjust the overall volume and the
volume of specific sound devices in your computer.

To adjust the overall volume level from Windows:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio

Devices.

2 Click/Double-click the Adjust the system volume or Sounds and Audio

Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties dialog box opens.

3 Click the Volume tab.

For more information about adjusting

the volume, click Start, then click Help

adjusting volume in the Search box ,

Help and Support

and Support. Type the keyword

then click the arrow.

4 Drag the Device Volume slider to change the volume or click to select the

Mute check box, then click OK.

To adjust specific volume levels:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio

Devices.

2 Click/Double-click the Adjust the system volume or Sounds and Audio

Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties dialog box opens.

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3 Click the Volume tab.

4 Click Advanced in the Device volume area.

82

If the device you want to adjust does not appear in the window, click
Options, Properties, the check box next to the audio device you want to
adjust, then click OK.

5 Drag the volume level and balance sliders for the device you want to

adjust. For more information about the volume controls, click Help in the
window.

6 Click × in the top-right corner of the window to close it.

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Playing music and movies

Playing WAV audio files

Sound Recorder is a simple Windows program that lets you record and play WAV
files. WAV is the most common audio file format used for your Windows system
sounds.

To play a WAV audio file with Sound Recorder:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then click Sound

Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.

Playing music and movies

Playing audio and video files

Rewind

Fast Forward

2 Click File, then click Open. The Open dialog box opens.

3 Click the file you want to play, then click Open.

4 Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by

clicking (stop).

Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files, including
WAV, MIDI, MP3, AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. For more information about using
Windows Media Player, click Help.

Play

Record

Stop

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To play a file using WindowsMedia Player:

Double-click the file in My Computer.

Shortcut

1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player opens.

Vide o
screen

Playing CDs or DVDs

Some music CDs have copy protection

software. You may not be able to play

these CDs on your computer.

To watch a DVD you must have a DVD

drive in your computer. If you do not have

a DVD drive and would like to add an

internal or external drive, visit the

accessories.gateway.com.

For more information about playing CDs
or DVDs, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type the phrases playing CDs

or playing DVDs in the Search box, then

Important

Important

Accessory Store at

Help & Support

click the arrow.

StopPlay

Video file information

2 Click File, then click Open. The Open dialog box opens.

3 Click the file you want to play, then click Open.

4 Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by

clicking (stop).

You can play CDs using Windows Media Player, and you can play DVDs using
Windows Media Player or or CyberLink PowerDVD.

A standard Compact Disc (CD) holds an entire album of digital songs, and can
be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive.

A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data
capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies or several
albums of music can fit on a single disc. DVDs can be played on a DVD player
or a DVD drive-equipped computer.

Playing a CD or DVD using Windows Media Player

Use Windows Media Player to listen to CDs or watch DVDs. For more information
about using Windows Media Player, click Help.

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Insert a CD or DVD Ö Windows Media

Player opens and plays the disc

Shortcut

Playing music and movies

To play a CD or DVD:

1 Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in

and that the volume is turned up.

2 Insert a CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive.

3 If a dialog box opens with a list of CD players or DVD players, click

Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player opens.

- OR -

If a dialog box does not open with a list of CD players or DVD players, click
Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.
Windows Media Player opens.

Play/pause

Stop

Previous

4 Click (play). If you do not hear sound or you want to change the volume,

Next

Vol ume

Mute

see “Adjusting the volume” on page 81.

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Playing a DVD using CyberLink PowerDVD

To play a DVD using CyberLink PowerDVD:

For more information about playing

DVDs using CyberLink PowerDVD, click

Start, All Programs, CyberLink

PowerDV D, then click PowerDVD Help.

Help & Support

1 Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in

and that the volume is turned up.

2 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink PowerDVD, then click PowerDVD.

The PowerDVD video screen and control panel open.

3 Insert a DVD into the DVD drive, then click (play). The DVD plays.

To control the DVD or adjust the volume, use the controls in PowerDVD.

Creating audio files and music libraries

Creating music files

You can create several types of audio files for your listening enjoyment,
including WAV, MP3, and WMA files.

Recording WAV audio files

Sound recorder is a simple Windows program that lets you record and play WAV
files. WAV is the most common audio file format used for your Windows system
sounds. For information about playing WAV files, see “Playing WAV audio files”

on page 83.

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For more information about making or
playing an audio recording, click Start,

then click Help and Support. Type the

phrases recording audio or playing

audio in the Search box, then click the

Help & Support

arrow.

Creating audio files and music libraries

To record a WAV audio file:

1 Plug a microphone into one of the Microphone jacks on your computer.

For the location of the Microphone jacks, see your computer’s hardware
reference.

2 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then click Sound

Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.

Rewind

Fast Forward

3 Click (record), then speak into the microphone.

4 When you finish recording, click (stop).

5 Click File, then click Save As. The Save As dialog box opens.

6 Name the recording, specify the location where you want to save the

Play

Record

Stop

recording, then click Save. The recording is saved.

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Creating WMA and MP3 music files using Windows Media Player

Some music CDs have copy protection
software. You cannot copy tracks from

Important

these CDs.

Using Windows Media Player, you can copy the tracks from a music CD to your
computer’s hard drive as WMA or MP3 files. WMA and MP3 are methods for
digitally compressing high-fidelity music into compact files without noticeably
sacrificing quality. WMA files end in the file extension WMA, and MP3 files end
in the file extension MP3.

To create WMA or MP3 files:

1 Insert a music CD into your CD or DVD drive.

2 If a dialog box opens with a list of CD players, click

Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.

- OR -

If a dialog box does not open with a list of CD players, click Start, then
click Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.

88

3 Click Tools, Options, then click the Rip Music tab.

4 Click the arrow to open the Format list, then click either mp3 or Windows

Media Audio. For more information on the differences between the two

types of files, click Learn more about MP3 formats.

www.emachines.com

Creating audio files and music libraries

5 Click File, CDs and Devices, Rip Audio CD, then click the drive that

contains the audio CD.

6 Click to clear the check box for any track you do not want to record.

7 Click Rip Music. Windows Media Player records the tracks to your hard

drive as WMA files. A progress bar appears next to each track as it is
recorded.

Building a music library

During the download process, WMA and
MP3 files may become corrupt. If you are

having trouble listening to, or working

with, a downloaded file, try downloading

Caution

the file again.

Use Windows Media Player to build a music library. You can organize your music
tracks (individual MP3 or WMA audio files) by categories, find a track quickly by
sorting, and add information to a music file.

You can add music tracks to your music library by:

■ Creating MP3 or WMA files—When you create MP3 or WMA files from

the tracks on your music CD, Windows Media Player automatically adds
these files to your music library.

■ Dragging and Dropping—Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer or

your desktop to the music library.

■ Downloading files from the Internet—When you are connected to the

Internet, WMA and MP3 files that you download are automatically added
to your music library.

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Editing track information

After you add a WMA or MP3 file to your music library, you can edit the track’s
information.

To edit track information:

1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player opens.

2 Click the Library tab.

3 Right-click the track you want to edit, then click Advanced Tag Editor. The

Advanced Tag Editor dialog box opens.

4 Enter track information such as Title, Artist, Album, and Genre.

5 Click OK. The new track information appears in the Windows Media Player

library.

Creating and editing videos

If your home video camera supports it, it can be connected to your computer
so that you can download video from the camera as data files. You can also
create video from a Web cam attached to your computer. For instructions on
how to create video, see your camera’s user guide.

Editing videos

For more information about editing

videos, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type the phrase Window s

Movie Maker in the Search box, then

Help & Support

click the arrow.

Windows Movie Maker is a video capture program that lets you capture and edit
full-motion video, single images, and audio through the IEEE 1394 port
(optional) on your computer. For more information about using Windows Movie
Maker, see its online help.

You may have received additional movie editing software with your computer.
For more information about using this software, including additional features
not available in Windows Movie Maker, see that program’s online help.

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Transferring your video to your computer

To transfer your video to your computer:

1 Connect your video camera to your computer by following the camera

manufacturer’s instructions.

2 If a dialog box opens with a list of video editing programs, click

Windows Movie Maker. Windows Movie Maker opens.

- OR -

If a dialog box does not open with a list of video editing programs, click
Start, All Programs, then click Windows Movie Maker. Windows Movie
Maker opens.

Creating and editing videos

Windows Movie Maker recognizes your camera and the Video Capture
Wizard opens.

3 If the wizard does not open, click Capture From Video Device.

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4 Complete the screens in the Video Capture Wizard, clicking Next after

each one.

Video files may require a significant

Caution

amount of free hard drive space

depending on your settings. A one hour

tape may require more than 10 GB of

hard drive space for storage with

additional space required for editing.

When you reach the final screen, Windows Movie Maker rewinds the video
tape in your camera and captures it onto your hard drive.

For information about the settings in the Video Capture Wizard, click

Learn more about video settings in the wizard, or click Help, then click
Help Topics in Windows Movie Maker.

Editing your video

After your video file is captured on your computer, you can edit it. Some of the
edits you can make to your video include:

■ Splitting your video into more than one clip or combining two or more

clips into one clip

■ Trimming unwanted material from the beginning or end of your clip

■ Inserting video transitions between clips

■ Adding video effects

■ Adding narration

■ Adding music

■ Adding titles and credits

Saving your video

For information about the editing your video, click Help, then click Help Topics
in Windows Movie Maker.

After you finish editing your video, you can save it to one of the following places.
Under Movie Tasks:

■ Click Save to My Computer to save your movie to your hard drive.

■ Click Save to CD to save your movie to a recordable CD.

■ Click Send in e-mail to send your video as an e-mail attachment.

■ Click Send to the Web to post or send your video to your Web site so

friends and family can watch your video on the Web.

■ Click Send to DV Camera to play your video back to your video camera

so you can record it on tape and view it on your television.

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www.emachines.com

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

So me C Ds hav e co py p rot ec tio n so ft war e.

You cannot create MP3, WAV, or WMA

files from these CDs and you may not be

able to listen to these CDs on your

Tips & Tricks

Important

You can also use Windows Media Player

to create music CDs. For more

information, see “Creating a music CD

using Windows Media Player” on

Creating a music CD

We recommend that you do not use your

computer for other tasks while creating

If you record copyrighted material on a
CD or DVD, you need permission from the
copyright owner. Otherwise, you may be
violating copyright law and be subject to

payment of damages and other

remedies. If you are uncertain about your

rights, contact your legal advisor.

Important

CDs or DVDs.

computer.

page 93.

You can create music CDs using Windows Media Player.

Creating a music CD using Windows Media Player

To create a music CD using Windows Media Player:

1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player opens.

2 Insert a blank, writable CD into your CD or DVD drive.

3 If a dialog box opens, click Take no action, then click OK.

4 Click the Burn tab. The Select files to burn window opens.

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