eMachines HM50-YK Service Manual

eMachines HM50-YK

Service Guide

PRINTED IN TAIWAN

Service guide files and updates are available

on the ACER/CSD web; for more information,

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

II

Revision History

Please refer to the table below for the updates made on eMachines HM50-MV/HM50-YK service guides.

Date Chapter Updates

III

Copyright

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

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.
Acer Incorporated makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the

contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular
purpose. Any Acer Incorporated software described in this manual is sold or licensed "as is". Should the
programs prove defective following their purchase, the buyer (and not Acer Incorporated, its distributor, or its
dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing, repair, and any incidental or consequential
damages resulting from any defect in the software.

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

IV

Conventions

The following conventions are used in this manual:

SCREEN MESSAGES Denotes actual messages that appear

on screen.

NOTE Gives bits and pieces of additional

information related to the current
topic.

WARNING Alerts you to any damage that might

result from doing or not doing specific
actions.

CAUTION Gives precautionary measures to

avoid possible hardware or software
problems.

IMPORTANT Reminds you to do specific actions

relevant to the accomplishment of
procedures.

V

Preface

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

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

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

VI

VII

Table of Contents

System Specifications 1

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

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

Your Acer Notebook tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Closed Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Rear View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Left View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Right View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

TouchPad Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Using the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Windows Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Hot Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Special Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Using the System Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Hardware Specifications and Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

System Utilities 25

BIOS Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Navigating the BIOS Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

HM50-YK AMD BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Main . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Advanced . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

BIOS Flash Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

DOS Flash Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

WinFlash Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Remove HDD/BIOS Password Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Machine Disassembly and Replacement 45

Disassembly Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Pre-disassembly Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Disassembly Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

External Module Disassembly Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

External Modules Disassembly Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Removing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

Removing the SD Dummy Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Removing the Lower Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Removing the Optical Drive Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Removing the DIMM Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Removing the WLAN Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Removing the Hard Disk Drive Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Main Unit Disassembly Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Main Unit Disassembly Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Removing the Switch Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Removing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Removing the LCD Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

VIII

Table of Contents

Removing the Upper Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Removing the Power Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Removing the Left Speaker Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Removing the Right Speaker Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Removing the TouchPad Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Removing the Mainboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Removing the RTC Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Removing the Thermal Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Removing the CPU Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

Removing the CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82

LCD Module Disassembly Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

LCD Module Disassembly Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Removing the LCD Bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Removing the Camera Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Removing the LCD Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Removing the LCD Brackets and FPC Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

Removing the Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90

LCD Module Reassembly Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Replacing the Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Replacing the LCD Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96

Replacing the Camera Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Replacing the LCD Bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Main Module Reassembly Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

Replacing the CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

Replacing the CPU Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102

Replacing the Thermal Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102

Replacing the Mainboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Replacing the TouchPad Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

Replacing the Right Speaker Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Replacing the Left Speaker Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Replacing the Power Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

Replacing the Upper Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

Replacing the LCD Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112

Replacing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117

Replacing the Switch Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

Replacing the Hard Disk Drive Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

Replacing the WLAN Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120

Replacing the DIMM Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120

Replacing the ODD Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121

Replacing the Lower Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121

Replacing the SD Dummy Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122

Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123

Troubleshooting 125

Common Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125

Power On Issue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126

No Display Issue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127

Random Loss of BIOS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128

LCD Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129

Built-In Keyboard Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129

TouchPad Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130

Internal Speaker Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130

HDD Not Operating Correctly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132

ODD Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133

Wireless Function Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136

IX

Table of Contents

Thermal Unit Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136

External Mouse Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137

Other Failures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137

Intermittent Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

Undetermined Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

Post Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139

Jumper and Connector Locations 143

Top View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144

Power Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145

Clearing Password Check and BIOS Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146

Clearing Password Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146

Clear CMOS Jumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146

BIOS Recovery by Crisis Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147

FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List 149

eMachines HM50-YK Exploded Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150

Main Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150

Base Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Rear Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152

eMachines HM50-YK FRU List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153

Screw List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

Model Definition and Configuration 162
Test Compatible Components 181

Microsoft® Windows® Vista Environment Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .182

Online Support Information 189
Index 191

X

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 1

System Specifications

Features

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

Operating System

• Genuine Windows® Vista™

Platform

• AMD Athlon64 Dual-Core Processor CPU, S1 socket

• A TI RS690MC/SB600 chipset

System Memory

• Low-latency, high-bandwidth

• 128-bit DDR2 SDRAM controller operating at up to 333 MHz

• On-board memory with up to 2 unbuffered SO-DIMM slots supporting DDR II 667/800.

• Adjustable Maximum 128MB UMA VGA memory shared from North Bridge

• Maximum memory: 2GB per slot; 4GB total

• On-board cache up to 1MB

Display

• 15.6" WXGA, HD 720p, 1366x768

Graphics

• Integrated VGA solution for RS690MC

Storage subsystem

• One 9.5mm, 2.5" HDD (5400 rpm) supported with 160/250/320/500GB and above

• External USB FDD

• 5-in-1 card-reader

Optical Drive

• Fixed type, G-base, SATA interface, Combo/Super-multi DVD-ROM drive

Audio

• Realtek ALC272X-GR for High Definition Audio Codec with Dolby Digital Live

• Internal speakers x2 (2W)

• Mic-in jack

Chapter 1

2 Chapter 1

• Headphone/Line out jack

Dimensions and Weight

• 372.3mm x 246.5mm x 26.8mm/40.6mm with ID

• Weight < than 3100g (15.6" LCD/6-cell battery/super-multi ODD)

Communication

•Wireless

• 802.11b/g/n WLAN/WiMax

• Mini PCIE Wireless LAN module with with mini card slot

• Dual-Band built-in Antenna for Wireless LAN

•LAN

• Atheros AR8132L for 10/100 LAN

• PCI-E 10/100M LAN

• WOL (AC mode S5) support

• Modem

• External USB 2.0 modem

• Support Wake on Ring (S3)

Privacy control

• BIOS user, supervisor, HDD passwords

• Kensington lock slot

Power subsystem

• 65W

• Universal jack for adapter

• Battery: 6-cell AS2009A

Special keys and controls

• EM-7T keyboard

• Supports Application keys for Windows XP/Linux version

• Support for Home key and Application keys for Windows XP/Linux version

• Multi-language support

I/O interface

• VGA port, 15 pins

• DC-IN port for adapter

• RJ-45 Ethernet port for LAN

• 2 USB port

• Headphone out / Line-out

• Microphone-in

• 5-in-1 card Reader

Chapter 1 3

• Kensington Lock (7.5mm)

Environment

• Temperature:

• Operating: 5 °C to 35 °C

• Non-operating: -20 °C to 65 °C

• Humidity (non-condensing):

• Operating: 20% to 80%

• Non-operating: 20% to 80%

4 Chapter 1

System Block Diagram

Chapter 1 5

Your Acer Notebook tour

After knowing your computer features, let us show you around your new computer.

Front View

No. Icon Item Description

1 Integrated

webcam

Web camera for video communication
(for selected models).

2 Display screen Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD),

displays computer output.

3 Touchpad toggle Turns the internal touchpad on and off.

Power button Turns the computer on and off.
Wireless LAN

communication
button/indicator

Enables/disables the wireless LAN function.
Indicates the status of wireless LAN
communication.

4 Speaker Left and right speakers deliver stereo audio

output.
5 Keyboard For entering data into your computer.
6 T ouchPad Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions

like a computer mouse.

2

1

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

6 Chapter 1

Closed Front View

NOTE: 1 The front panel indicators are visibl e even when the computer cover is closed

7 Click buttons (left

and right)

The left and right buttons function like the left

and right mouse buttons.
8 Palmrest Comfortable support area for your hands when

you use the computer.
9 HDD Indicates when the hard disk drive is active.

Num Lock Lights up when Num Lock is activated.

Caps Lock Lights up when Caps Lock is activated.

No. Icon Item Description

1

Power

1

Indicates the computer's power status.

Battery

1

Indicates the computer's battery status.

1. Charging: The light shows amber when the

battery is charging.

2. Fully charged: The light shows green when

in AC mode.
2 5-in-1 card

reader

Accepts Secure Digital (SD), MultiMediaCard

(MMC), Memory Stick (MS), Memory Stick

PRO (MS PRO), xDPicture Card (xD).

NOTE: Push to remove/install the card.

Only one card can operate at any
given time.

No. Icon Item Description

1 2

Chapter 1 7

Rear View

Left View

No. Icon Item Description

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

prolonged use.

No. Icon Item Description

1 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter

2 Ethernet (RJ-45)

port

Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based

network.
2 External display

(VGA) port

Connects to a display device

(e.g. external monitor, LCD projector).
4 USB 2.0 ports Connect to USB 2.0 devices (e.g. USB mouse,

USB camera).
5 Microphone-in

jack

Accepts input from external microphones.

Headphones/
speaker/line-out
jack

Connects to audio line-out devices

(e.g. speakers, headphones).

1

1 2 3 4 5

8 Chapter 1

Right View

Bottom View

No. Item Description

1 Optical drive Internal optical drive; accepts CDs or DVDs.
2 Optical disk access

indicator

Lights up when the optical drive is active.

3 Optical drive eject button Ejects the optical disk from the drive.
4 Emergency eject hole Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer is turned

off.
Note: Insert a paper clip into the emergency eject hole to

eject the optical drive tray when the computer is off.

5 Kensington lock slot Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer security

lock.
Note: Wrap the computer security lock cable around an

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

No. Icon Item Description

1 Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack.

2 Battery release

latch

Releases the battery for removal.

1 234 5

1
2

3

4

5

6

Chapter 1 9

3 Battery lock Locks the battery in position.
4 Hard disk bay Houses the computer's hard disk (secured with

screws).

5 Memory

compartment

Houses the computer's main memory.

5 Ventilation slots

and cooling fan

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

Note: Do not cover or obstruct the fan opening.

No. Icon Item Description

10 Chapter 1

Indicators

The computer has several easy-to-read status indicators. The front panel indicators are visible even when the
computer cover is closed.

NOTE: 1. Charging: The light shows amber when the battery is charging. 2. Fully charged: The light shows

green when in AC mode.

Icon Function Description

Power Indicates the computer's power status.

Battery Indicates the computer's battery status.

HDD Indicates when the hard disk drive is active.

Num Lock Lights up when Num Lock is activated.

Caps Lock Lights up when Caps Lock is activated.

Chapter 1 11

TouchPad Basics

The following items show you how to use the TouchPad:

• Move your finger across the TouchPad (1) to move the cursor.

• Press the left (2) and right (3) buttons located beneath the TouchPad to perform selection and
execution functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse.
Tapping on the TouchPad is the same as clicking the left button.

NOTE: When using the TouchPad, keep it - and your fingers - dry and clean. The TouchPad is sensitive to

finger movement; hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping too hard will not
increase the TouchPad’s responsiveness.

Function Left Button (2) Right Button (3) Main TouchPad (1)

Execute Quickly click twice. Tap twice (at the same speed

as double-clicking a mouse

button).
Select Click once. Tap once.
Drag Click and hold, then use

finger on the TouchPad to
drag the cursor.

Tap twice (at the same speed

as double-clicking a mouse

button); rest your finger on

the TouchPad on the second

tap and drag the cursor.
Access

context menu

Click once.

12 Chapter 1

Using the Keyboard

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

Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad

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

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

Lock key Description

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

<Fn> + <F11>

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

Scroll Lock <Fn> +

<F12>

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

Desired access Num Lock on Num Lock off

Number keys on
embedded keypad

Type numbers in a normal manner.

Cursor-control keys on
embedded keypad

Hold <Shift> while using cursor­control keys.

Hold <Fn> while using cursor­control keys.

Main keyboard keys Hold <Fn> while typing letters on

embedded keypad.

Type the letters in a normal
manner.

Chapter 1 13

Windows Keys

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

Key Description

Windows key Pressed alone, this key has the same effect as clicking on the Windows Start button;

it launches the Start menu. It can also be used with other keys to provide a variety of
functions:

<>: Open or close the Start menu
<> + <D>: Display the desktop
<> + <E>: Open Windows Explore
<> + <F>: Search for a file or folder
<> + <G>: Cycle through Sidebar gadgets
<> + <L>: Lock your computer (if you are connected to a network domain), or

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

<> + <M>: Minimizes all windows
<> + <R>: Open the Run dialog box
<> + <T>: Cycle through programs on the taskbar
<> + <U>: Open Ease of Access Center
<> + <X>: Open Windows Mobility Center
<> + <BREAK>: Display the System Properties dialog box
<> + <SHIFT+M>: Restore minimized windows to the desktop
<> + <TAB>: Cycle th rough programs on the taskbar by using Windows Flip 3-D
<> + <SP ACEBAR>: Bring all gadgets to the front and select Windows Sidebar

<CTRL> +

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

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

taskbar by using Windows Flip 3-D

Note: Depending on your edition of Windows Vista, some shortcuts may not function

as described.

Application
key

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

14 Chapter 1

Hot Keys

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

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

Hotkey Icon Function Description

<Fn> + <F1> Hotkey help Displays help on hotkeys.

<Fn> + <F2> Acer eSettings

Management

Launches Acer eSettings Management in Acer
Empowering Technology.

<Fn> + <F3> Acer ePower

Management

Launches Acer ePower Management in Acer
Empowering Technology.

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

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

screen, external monitor (if connected) and
both.

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

power. Press any key to return.

<Fn> + <F7> TouchPad toggle Turns the internal TouchPad on an d off.

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

<Fn> + < > Brightness up Increases the screen brightness.

<Fn> + < > Brightness down Decreases the screen brightness.

Chapter 1 15

Special Key

You can locate the Euro symbol and the US dollar sign at the upper-center and/or bottom-right of your
keyboard.

The Euro symbol

1. Open a text editor or word processor.

2. Hold <Alt Gr> and then press the <5> key at the upper-center of the keyboard.
NOTE: Note: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol. Please refer to www.microsoft.com/

typography/faq/faq12.htm for more information.

The US dollar sign

1. Open a text editor or word processor.

2. Hold <Shift> and then press the <4> key at the upper-center of the keyboard.
NOTE: This function varies by the operating system version.

16 Chapter 1

Using the System Utilities

Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible)

NOTE: This feature is only available on certain models.

To enable the dual monitor feature of the notebook, first ensure that the second monitor is connected, then
select Start, Control Panel, Display and click on Settings. Select the secondary monitor (2) icon in the
display box and then click the check box Extend my windows desktop onto this monitor. Finally, click
Apply to confirm the new settings and click OK to complete the process.

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

Double (vertical), Triple (primary at left), Triple (primary at right), or Quad Acer Gridvista is dual-display
compatible, allowing two displays to be partitioned independently.

Acer Gridvista is dual-display compatible, allowing two displays to be partitioned independently.
AcerGridVista is simple to set up:

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

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

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

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

recommended value.

Chapter 1 17

Hardware Specifications and Configurations

Processor

Processor Specifications

CPU Fan True Value Table

• Throttling 50%: On=99°C, Off=96°C

• OS Shutdown: 105°C

• H/W Shutdown: 110°C

Northbridge

Item Specification

CPU • AMD Athlon64 Dual-Core Process, Cache 1MB, TK42

• AMD Athlon64 Process, 2.2GHz, Cache 256KB, TF38

• AMD Athlon64 Process, 2.0GHz, Cache 256KB, TF36

• AMD Athlon64 Process, 1.6GHz, Cache 512KB, TF20
Type AMD Athlon64 Dual-Core Mobile CPU
Core Logic • ATI RS690MC

• ATI SB600

• ENE KB926 for Keyboard Controller, Battery management Unit.

• Integrated VGA solution for RS690MC
CPU Package Micro uPGA-638 Package
Power 45W
On-die Cache Up to 1MB L2 cache
Front Side Bus 667/800/1066MHz
Thermal IC

Item

CPU

Speed

Cores

Bus

Speed

Mfg

Tech

Cache

Size

Package

Core

Voltage

Acer P/N

AATF20 1.6GHz 1 638 MHz 512K TF20

PGA

KC.ATF02.200

AATF36 2.0GHz 1 638 MHz 256K TF36

PGA

KC.ATF02.360

AATF38 2.2Ghz 1 638 MHz 256K TF38

PGA

KC.ATF02.380

AATK42 1.6GHz 2 638 MHz 65 nm 1M TK42 KC.ATK02.420

Fan On Temp (°C) Fan Speed (rpm) SPL Spec (dBA)

50 3000 28
55 3300 31
60 3700 34
65 4100 37
75 4500 40
80 4500 40

Item Specification

Chipset ATI RS690MC
Package
Features •

18 Chapter 1

Southbridge

BIOS

System Memory

Item Specification

Chipset ATI SB600
Package
Features •

Item Specification

BIOS vendor Phoenix BIOS
BIOS Version V0.1 1T04
BIOS ROM type Flash
Features • Flash ROM 1MB

• Supports ISIPP

• Supports Acer UI

• Supports multi-boot

• Suspend to RAM (S3)/Disk (S4)

• Various hot-keys for system control

• Supports SMBUS 2.0, PCI2.3

• ACPI 2.0 compliance with Intel Speed Step support C1, C2,
C3, C4 and S3, S4 for mobile CPU

• DMI utility for BIOS serial number configurable/asset tag

• Supports PXE

• Supports Y2K solution

• Supports Win Flash Wake on LAN from S3

• Wake on LAN form S4 in AC mode

• System information

Item Specification

Memory controller ATI RS690MC + ATI SB600
Memory size 4GB maximum
DIMM socket number 2
Supports memory size per socket 2GB
Supports maximum memory size 4GB (total)
Supports DIMM type 200-pin +1.8V DDRII
Supports DIMM Speed 667/800 MHz
Supports DIMM voltage 1.8V
Cache Upto 1MB L2 Cache on CPU

Chapter 1 19

Memory Combinations

NOTE: Above table lists some system memory configurations. You may combine DIMMs with various

capacities to form other combinations. On above table, the configuration of slot 1 and slot 2 could be
reversed.

LAN Interface

Wireless Module 802.11b/g/n

Slot 1 Slot 2 Total Memory

0MB 512MB 512MB
0MB 1024MB 1024MB
0MB 2048MB 2048MB
512MB 512MB 1024MB
512MB 1024MB 1536MB
512MB 2048MB 2560MB
1024MB 0MB 1024MB
1024MB 512MB 1536MB
1024MB 1024MB 2048MB
1024MB 2048MB 3072MB
2048MB 0MB 2048MB
2048MB 512MB 2560MB
2048MB 1024MB 3072MB
2048MB 2048MB 4096MB

Item Specification

LAN Chipset Atheros AR8132L
Package
LAN connector type
LAN connector location
Feature
Interface

Item Specification

Manufacturer
Model
Modem Device •
Interface

20 Chapter 1

Hard Disk Drive Interface

Super-Multi Drive

Item Specification

Vendor & Model
Name

Seagate
ST9500325AS
ST9250315AS

Seagate
ST9320320AS
ST9160310AS

Toshiba
MK3255GSX
MK2555GSX
MK1655GSX

WD
WD5000BEVT
WD3200BEVT
WD2500BEVT
WD1600BEVT

Capacity (MB) 500, 250 320, 160 320, 250, 160 500, 320, 250,

160
Bytes per sector 512 512 512 512
Data heads 4, 2 4, 2 4, 2, 2 4, 4, 3, 2
Drive Format
Disks 2, 1 2 or 1, 1 2, 1, 1 2, 2, 2, 1
Spindle speed

(RPM)

5400 5400 5400 5400

Performance Specifications
Buffer size 8 MB 8 MB 8 MB 8 MB
Interface SATA SATA SATA SATA
Internal transfer

rate (Mbits/sec,
max)

352 395~952

(typical)

850 Mbits/s

maximum

I/O data transfer
rate

(Mbytes/sec
max)

150 300 300 maximum

DC Power Requirements
Voltage

tolerance

5V ±5% 5V ±5% 5V ±5% 5V ±5%

Item Specification

Vendor & model name HLDS GT20N Sony AD7580S
Performance

Specification

With CD Diskette With DVD Diskette With CD Diskette With DVD Diskette

Transfer rate (MB/sec) Sustained:

3,600 KB/s (24x) max.

Sustained:

11.08 Mbytes/s (8x)
max.

Sustained:
1,571 (typical)

Sustained:
10,993 (typical)

Buffer Memory 2 MB
Interface SATA