Gateway M250A, M250ES, M250G, M250GS, M250B User Manual

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Contents

1Getting Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Using eSupport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Help and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Searching for a topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Using Your Computer guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2 Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Left side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Keyboard area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Identifying your model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Gateway model and serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Finding your specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Installing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Connecting the dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Connecting to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethe rnet network . . . . . . 2 4

Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Using the touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

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Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

4 Using Drives and Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Using the DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Inserting a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Playing a CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Playing a DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Creating CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Adding and removing a PC Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Viewing the display on a projector or monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Connecting a video camera to your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

5 Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Replacing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

6 Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Adding or replacing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Replacing the hard drive kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

7 Using the Optional Port Replicator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Connecting to the port replicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Attaching to the port replicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

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Disconnecting from the port replicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

8 Maintaining Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Protecting your notebook from viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Restoring your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

9 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Device installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

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iii

Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113

Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

A Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

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Chapter 1

Getting Help

• Using the Gatew ay W eb site

• Using Help and Supp ort

•Using BigFix

• Using Your Comput er guide

• Using online help

Chapter 1: Gettin g Help

Thank y ou for purchasing our notebook!

You have made an excellent decision choosing Gateway . W e are sure t hat you will be pleased with the outstanding quality, reliability, and performance of your new notebook. Each and every Gateway notebook uses the latest technology and pas ses through the m ost strin gent quality control tests to ensure that you are provided with the best product possible.

Your new Gateway notebook is designed to provide an exceptional balance of performance and portability. Your notebook uses the latest chipset and mobile processor technologies to manage the processor speed and power consumption for a greater battery life experience. This design provides you with maximum performance when plugged into AC power balanced with optimized battery life when on battery power.

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

Gateway stands behind our v alue 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 depar tment will provide you with fast, considerate service.

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

Thank you again, from all of us at Gateway.

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Gateway Web s ite

Gate way W eb sit e

Gateway's online support is available 24 hours per d ay, 7 days per week and provides the most current drivers, product specifications, tutorials, and personalized information about your notebook. Visit the Gateway eSupport Web site at support.gateway.com

Using eSupport

The eSupport site is divided into seven major areas:

■ Support Hom e

■ Product Support

■ Downloads

■ Customer Service

■ Upgrade Center

■ Resources

■ Contact Us

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Chapter 1: Gettin g Help

Support Home

Click Support Home, then click Computers. T o view support documents for your notebook, type your serial number in the click

Submit.

Serial Number box, then

Click the arrow button to open the click specifications, and guides for all Gateway notebooks.

Notebook Computers to access product documentation,

Select Y our Com puter Product box, then

Product Support

Click Product Support to view a list of all the products that Gateway supports.

Downloads

Click Downloads, then click My Downloads to get the latest software updates for BIOS and driver upgrades. By entering your serial number you get drivers specific to your notebook. Click through a step-by-step wizard to locate your drivers.

Browse All Downloads to walk

Customer Service

Click Customer Service to view information about your account and general information about warranties and special offers.

Upgrade Cen ter

Click Upgrade Center to view and purchase upgrades for your notebook.

Resources

Click Resources to access utilities to help you manage your notebook.

Click Contact Us to access links to customer care with a live technician, including chat and e-mail. Clic k numbers for both sales and support. For more information, see

“Telephone support” on pa ge 112.

Call Us to get a list of Gateway telephone

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Help and Suppor t

Help and Support

Your notebook includes Help and Support, an easily accessible collection of help information, troubleshoote rs, and automa ted support. Use Help and Support to answer questions a bout Windows an d to help you quickly discover and use the many features of your Gateway notebook.

To start Help and Support:

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

You can find help informatio n by clicking a link, performing a search, or browsing the index.

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Chapter 1: Gettin g Help

Searching for a topic

To search for a topic in Help and Support, type a word or phrase (keyword) in the click the arrow button.

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

■ Suggested T o pics - These topics are located in Help and Support and

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

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

Search box located at the top of any Help and Support screen, then

are relevant to yo ur search topic.

Support and contain the words you entered in the

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

Search box.

Search box. You

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

To view a topi c, click the topic n ame in the

Search Resu lts list.

BigFix

Your notebook may include BigFix. BigFix monitors your notebook for problems and conflicts. It automatically gathers information about the latest bugs, security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet. Whenever BigFix detects a problem , it alerts you by flashing the blue taskbar icon. To fix the problem, click on that icon to open BigFix.

To start BigFix:

■ Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then cli ck BigFix.

To learn more about using BigFix:

■ From the BigFix program, click Help, then click Tutorial.

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Using Your Comp uter guide

Using Your C omputer guide

In addition to this guide, the Using Y our Computer guide has been included on your hard drive. The Using Your Computer guide includes information on using Windows, using the Internet, sending a fax, and changing power-saving settings as well as other topics.

To access the Using Your Computer guide:

■ Click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Online help

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 menu or by clicking a

Help button.

Help

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Chapter 1: Gettin g Help

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.

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Chapter 2

Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook

• Identifying f eatures

• Locating y our notebook’ s mod el and serial number

• Locating the Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

• Locating the specifica tions for y our notebook

• Purchasing accessories

Chapter 2: Checki ng Out Your Gateway No tebook

Front

Volume control

Microphone jack

Headphone jack

Memory card reader

LCD panel release latch

Component Icon Description

Vo l u m e con tro l

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack.

Headphone jack Plug ampli fied speake rs or headphone s into this jack .

Memory card reader

■

Press the b u tton to th e right to increase the volume .

■

Press the button to the left to decrease the volume.

■

Press the button in to mute the volume.

The buil t-in spea kers a re turned off when spe akers or headphones are plugged into this jack.

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

memory card reader” on page 43. The memory card

reader supports Memory Stick

, Memory Stic k Pr o®,

MultiMediaCard™, and Secure Digital™.

LCD panel release latch

Open the LCD panel by sliding the release latch.

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Left side

Modem jack

Docking port

Ventilation fan PC Card

Monitor

port

slot

Component Icon Description

Modem jac k Plug a modem c able into this jack. For more information, s ee

“Connecting the dial -up modem” on page 23.

Docking port Connect the port replicator to this port.

Warning: Power is passed through this por t. This docking connection is certified to UL 1950 for use only with port replicators designed for your Gateway notebook.

Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.

Warning: Do not work for long periods with the notebook resting on your lap. If the air vents are blocked, the notebook may become hot enough to harm your skin.

Caution: Do not block or in ser t objects i nto these slots. If these slots are b lock ed, your notebook may ov erheat resultin g in unexpected shutdown or permanent damage to the notebook.

Monitor port Plug an analog VGA monitor or projector into this port.

PC Card slot Insert one Type II PC Card into this slot. F or more information ,

Caution: Provide adequate space around your notebook so air vents ar e not obs tructed . Do not us e the not ebook on a bed, sofa, r ug, or other similar surface.

see “Adding and removing a PC Card” on page 44.

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Chapter 2: Checki ng Out Your Gateway No tebook

Righ t sid e

IEEE 1394

port

USB

ports

DV D d r i ve Po w er

connector

Component Icon Description

IEEE 1394 port Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire® or i.Link®)

device (such as a digital camcorder or external hard drive) into this 4-pin IEEE 1394 port.

USB por ts Plug USB devices (such as a diskette d rive, flash dr ive,

printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports.

DVD/CD-RW or record able DVD drive

Insert CDs or DVDs into this drive. For more information, see “Using the DVD drive” on page 40. This drive may be a combina tion DVD/CD-RW or recordable DVD drive. To determine the type of drive in the notebook, examine the drive tray’s plastic cover and compare the logo to those listed in “Identifying drive types” on page 40.

Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

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Back

Component Icon Description

Back

Ethernet jackKensington lo ck slot Power/batt ery

charge indicator

Kensington™ lock slot

Power/ battery charge indicator

Secure your no tebook to an object b y connecting a K ensington cable lock to this slot.

■

LED soli d blue - note book is on, and if th e notebook is connected to AC power, the battery is fully charged.

■

LED blinking blue - notebook is in Standby mode.

■

LED solid purple - battery is charging.

■

LED blinking pu rple - bat tery is charg i ng an d not eb o ok is in Standby mode.

■

LED blinking red - battery charge is very low and has insufficient power to turn on the notebook.

■

LED off - notebook is off.

Ethernet jack Plug a 10/100/1000 Eth ernet network cab l e i nto this jack. The

other end of the cable can be plugged into a cable modem, DSL modem, router , access point, or an Ethernet netwo rk jack. For more information, see “Connecting to a cable or DSL

modem or to an Ether net network” on page 24.

www.gateway.com

Chapter 2: Checki ng Out Your Gateway No tebook

Bottom

Battery Battery

latch

emory

bay

Hard drive

bay

Website: Online Support: Tech Support Phone: Hours:

Battery lock

System

label

Component Description

Battery Provides power when the notebook is not plugged into AC power. Battery latch Slide to release the battery. For more information, see “Changing

batteries” on page 53.

Memory bay Install a memory module into this bay. For more information, see

“Adding or replacing memory” on page 61.

Hard dr ive bay The hard drive is loca ted in th is bay. For more i nformatio n, see

“Replacing the hard drive kit ” on page 65.

System label Includes the product model number. For more information, see

“Identi fying your mod el” on page 1 6.

Battery lock Slide to unlock the battery. For more information, see “Changing

batteries” on page 53.

www.gateway .com

Ke yboard area

Keyboard are a

Power button

Keyboard

Status

indicators

Touchpad

Component Icon Description

Power button Press to turn the power on or off. You can also configure the

power button for Standby/Resume mode. For more information on configuring the power button mode, see “Changing Power-Saving Settings” in which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Keyboard Provides all the features of a full-sized keyboard. For more

information, see “Using the keyboard” on page 29.

Touchpad Provides all the functionality of a mouse . For more i nformation,

see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on page 33.

Status indicators

Inform you when a drive is in use or when a button has been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used. For more information, see “Status indicators” on page 28.

Using Your Computer

www.gateway.com

Chapter 2: Checki ng Out Your Gateway No tebook

Identifying your model

Important The la bels shown in this sec tion are for i nformatio nal

purposes only. Label in formation v aries b y model, f eat ures ordered, and location.

Gatew ay model and serial number

The label on the bottom of your notebook contains informat ion that identifies your notebook model and its features. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.

Online Support: support.gateway.com

Tech Support Phone: Hours: Model:

S/No:

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the bottom of your notebook includes the product key code for your operating system.

www.gateway .com

Finding your s pecifications

F inding your specifications

For more information about your notebook, such as memory size, memory type, and hard drive size, visit Gateway’s eSupport page at

support.gateway.com

Gateway documentation and detailed specifications. For more information, see “Gateway Web site” on page 3.

. The eSupport page also has links to additional

Accessories

To order accessories, visit the Accessory Store at accessories.gateway.com.

Batteries

If you run your notebook on battery power for extended periods, you may want to buy an additional battery so you can swap batteries when necessary. See “Changing batteries” on page 53 for more information about using an additional battery.

Carrying cases

Gateway has large-cap acity carrying cases if you need additional space for accessories or supplies.

Memory

Large programs, such as multimedia game s or graphics programs, use a lot of memory . If your programs are running more slowly than you think they should, try adding more memory. See “Adding or repl acing

memory” on page 61 for more information.

Port replicators

Although you can attach devices directly to your notebook, a port replicator lets you make all of those connections at one time. When you travel with your notebook, you merely disconnect from the port replicator instead of unplugging all the devices.

A port replicator also provide s additional ports and other expansion features not included with your notebook. See “Using the Optional Port

Replicator” on pa ge 71 for more information about using a port replicator

with your notebook.

www.gateway.com

Chapter 2: Checki ng Out Your Gateway No tebook

Printers

You can attach almost any type of printer to your notebook. The most common types are inkjet and laser printers, which print in color or black and white.

Inkjet printers and cartridges are relatively inexpensive, but they are slower than laser printers. Using an inkjet color printer, you can print pictures, banners, and greeting cards, as well as documents.

Laser printers and cartridges are more expensive, but they print much faster than inkjet printers. Laser printers are better than inkjet printers when you are printing large document s.

USB flash drive

Use a USB flash drive for storing files or transferring files to another computer.

www.gateway .com

Chapter 3

Getting Started

• Installing the ba ttery

• Connecting the AC adapter

• Connecting the di al-up modem

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

• Turning y our notebook on and off

• Using the status indicator s

• Using the ke yboard and the EZ P ad touchpad

• Adjusting the v olume

• Connecting to a wireless network

Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Installing the battery

To install the battery:

1 Close the LCD panel. 2 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up. 3 Hold the battery label-side down and slide it into the open battery

slot until the battery clicks into place.

4 Slide the battery lock to the locked position.

Co nnecting the A C adapter

You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or your notebook’s battery . The battery was shipped to you partially charged. Y o u should use the AC adapter right away to fully charge the battery. Allow three hours for the battery to fully charge.

Important If the battery is not fully charged before you use your

notebook on ba ttery power f or the first time, the battery lif e may be much shorter than you expect. If the battery life seems short even after being charged for three hours, the battery may need to be recalibrated. For information on recalibrating th e battery , see “Recalibr ating the battery” on

page 51.

www.gateway .com

To connect the AC adapter:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

Caution Make sure that y ou use the AC adapter that came with y our

notebook or one of the same type purchased from Gateway.

Replace the power cord if it becomes damaged. The replacement cord must be of the same type and voltage rating as the original cord or your notebook may be damaged.

Connecting the AC adapter

2 Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power connector.

www.gateway.com

Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

3 Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. The power/battery charge

indicator turns on (see “Back” on page 13 for the location of the power/battery charge indicator). If the power/battery charge indicator does not turn on, complete the following steps until it turns on:

a Unplug the adapter from your notebook, then plug it back in. b Press FN+F1 to toggle the status lights on and off.

4 When you finish using your no tebook for the first time, turn off your

notebook and leave your notebook connected to AC power until the power/battery charge indicator turns blue.

Warning Do not attempt to disassemble the AC adapter. The

AC adapter has no user-replaceable or user-serviceable parts inside. The A C adapter has dangerous vo ltages that can cause seriou s injury or death. C ontact Ga tew a y about returning defective AC adapters.

Important If the power/battery charge indicator does not tur n blue

after three hours, contact Gateway Customer Care at

support.gateway.com

Prot ecting from power sourc e problems

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

Warning High voltages can enter your notebook through both the

power cord and the modem connection. To protect your notebook and a void electrica l shock, use a surg e protector . If you ha ve a tel ephone modem, u se a surge prot ector that has a modem jac k. If you ha ve a cab le modem, use a surg e protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the modem.

www.gateway .com

Connecting the dial-up modem

Co nnecting the dial-up modem

Your notebook has a built-in 56K modem that you can use to connect to a standard telep hone line.

Warning To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger

telecommunications line cord.

To connect the modem:

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

left side of your notebook.

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 notebook, then start your communications program.

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Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Co nnecting to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethernet network

Your notebook has a network jack that you can use to c onnect to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethernet net work.

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

1 Insert one end of the network cable into th e network jack on

the back of your notebook.

2 Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable modem , DSL

modem, or Ethernet network jack.

3 Start your notebook.

www.gateway .com

Starting your notebook

To start your notebook:

1 Slide the latch on the front of your notebook, then lift the LCD

panel.

2 Press the power button located above the keyboard.

Starting your n otebook

The power button is preset to On/Off mode. However, you can also set it to function in Standby/Resume mode.

Tips & Tricks For more information about changing the power button

3 If you are starting your notebook for the first time, follow the

on-screen instructions to set up your notebook.

mode, see “Changing Power-Saving Settings” in

Your Computer

drive. T o access t his guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentati on.

www.gateway.com

which has been included on your hard

Using

Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Warning Do not work for long periods with the notebook resting on

your lap. If the air vents are blocked, the notebook may become hot enough to harm your skin.

Caution Provide adequa te space around your no tebook so air vents

are not obstructed. Do not use the notebook on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

W aking up your no tebook

When you have not used your notebook for several minutes or if you close the LCD panel without turning off your notebook, it may enter a power-saving mode called Standby. While in Standby, the power indicator flashes.

If your notebook is in Standby mode, press the power button to “wake” it up.

Tips & Tricks For more information about changing the power button

mode, see “Changing Power-Saving Settings” in

Your Computer

drive. T o access t his guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentati on.

which has been included on your hard

T urning off y our notebook

To turn off your notebook:

1 Click Star t, then click Turn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog

box opens.

2 Click Tu r n Off. Windows shuts down and turns off yo ur notebook.

Using

Important If for some reason you cannot use the Turn Off Computer

option i n Windows to turn off your not ebook, pre ss and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release it.

www.gateway .com

Restarting (reb ooting) your notebook

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

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

To close unresponsive programs and restart your notebook:

1 Press CTRL+ALT+DEL. The Windows Security dialog box opens. 2 Click Task Manager. The Windows Task Manager dialog box opens. 3 Click the program that is not responding. 4 Click End Task. 5 Click X in the top-right corner of the Windows Task Manager dialog

box.

6 If your notebook does not respond, turn it o ff, wait ten seconds, then

turn it on again.

Important If your notebook does not turn off immediately, complete

the following steps until the notebook tur ns off: 1 Press and hol d the pow er butto n f or about fiv e seconds,

then release it.

2 Unplug the powe r cord an d remo ve the battery f or more

than 10 seconds.

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

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Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Status indicat ors

Status indicators inform you when a drive is being used or when a but ton has been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used.

AC power

Caps lock

Wireless network

Indicator Icon Description

AC power

Wireless network (optional)

Caps lock

Num lock

Drive

■

LED on - AC power is connecte d.

■

LED off - AC power is not connected.

■

LED on - Wi reless n etwork is turned on.

■

LED off - Wireless network is turned off.

■

LED on - C aps lo ck is turn ed on.

■

LED off - Caps l ock is tur ned off.

■

LED on - Numeric keypad is turned on.

■

LED off - Numeric keypad is turned off.

■

LED blinking - The hard drive or DVD drive is in use.

■

LED off - The hard dr ive or DVD drive is no t in use.

Drive

Num lock

Important If none of the indicators are on, you may need to press

FN+F1 to toggle the status lights on and off.

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Using the k eyboard

Your notebook features a full-size keyboard that functions the same as a desktop computer keyboard. Many of the keys ha ve been assigned alternate functions, including shortcut keys for Windows, function keys for specific system operations, and the Num Lock keys for the numeric keypad.

Function keys/System keys

Numeric

keypad

Using the keyboard

Navigation keys

FN key

Windows key

Tips & Tricks You can attach an external keyboard to the

notebook or port replicator using a USB por t. You do not need to shut down the note book to con nect a USB keyboard.

Application key

Arrow keys

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Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Key types

The keyboard has several different types of keys. Some keys perform specific actions when pressed alone and other actions when pressed in combination with another key.

Key type Icon Description

Function keys Press th ese keys labeled F1 to F12 to perform actions

in programs. For example, pressing Each program uses different function keys for different

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

F1 may open help.

System keys Press these colo red keys in combination with the

to perform specific actions. For more information, see

“System key combinations” on page 31.

Navigation keys Press th ese keys to move the curs or to the b eginning

of a line, to the end of a l ine, up the pag e, down the page, to the beginning of a document, or to the end of a document.

Arrow keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or

left.

Application key Press this key for quick access to shortcut menus and

help ass istants in Windows.

Windows key Press this key to open the Windows Start menu. This

key can also be used in combination with other keys to open utilities like

F (Sea rch utili ty), R (Run utility), and

FN key

E (Explorer utility).

FN key Press the FN key in combination with a colored system

key to perform a specific action.

Numeric keypad Use these keys to type numbers when the numeric

keypad is turned on. Press numeric keypad.

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FN+ to turn on the

Using the keyboard

Sy stem key combinations

When you press the FN key and a system key at the same time, your notebook performs the action identified by the text or icon on the key.

Press and hold F

N, then

press this system key...

To...

Toggle t he status i ndicator s on or off. For mor e information, see “Status indicators” on page 28.

Tur n the optio nal wirel ess networ k on or of f. For more information, see the printed network guide that came with your notebook.

Warning: Radio frequency wireless comm uni catio n can interfere with equ ipme nt on comm ercial aircr a ft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off whil e traveling in an a irp lane. 80 2.11G (a lso know n as wireless Ethernet or Wifi) comm unica tion de vice s are examples of devices that provide wireless communication.

Enter St andby mode. Pr ess the power butt on to leave Standby mode. For more information, see “Changing Power-Saving Settings” in

Using Your Computer

has been included on your hard dr ive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

which

Toggle t he noteboo k display in t he following orde r:

■

The LCD

■

An external monitor or projec tor (a monitor or projector must be plugged into the monitor port on your notebook)

■

Both displays at the same time For more information, see “Viewing the display on a

projector or monitor” on page 46.

Decrease the LCD panel brightness.

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Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Press and hold FN, then press this system key...

To...

Increas e the LCD panel bri ghtness.

Play or Pause the CD or DVD.

Stop playing the CD or DVD.

Skip back one CD song or DVD track.

Skip ahead one CD song or DVD track.

Turn on Num Lock so you can use the numer ic keypad. Press this key combination again to turn off Num Lock. The Num Lock status indicator appears when this function is turned on.

www.gateway .com

Using the EZ P ad touchpad

Using the EZPad touchpad

The EZ Pad™ consists of a touchpad, two buttons, and a scroll zone.

Touchpad

Scroll zone

Left button Right button

When you move your finger on the touchpad, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction. You can use the scroll zone to scroll through documents. Use of the scroll zone may vary from program to program.

www.gateway.com

Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

You can use the EZ-Pad left and right buttons below the touchpad to select objects.

Tips & Tricks For instructions on how to adjust the double-click speed,

pointer speed, right-hand or left-hand configuration, and other touchpad settings, see “Changing the mouse or touchpad settings” in been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Using Your Computer

which has

Using the touchpad

To... Do this...

Move the pointer on the screen.

Select an object on the screen.

Start a program or open a file or folder.

Move your finger around on the touchpad. If you run out of space and need to move the pointer farther, lift your finge r, mov e it to the middle of the touchpad, then continue moving your finger.

Position the pointer over the objec t. Quickly press and release t he left button once. This action is called

clicking

Position the pointer over the objec t. Press the left button twice in rapid successio n. This action is called

double-clicking

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To... Do this...

Using the EZ P ad touchpad

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

Move an object on the screen.

Position the pointer over the objec t. Quickly press and release t he rig ht button once. This action is called

right-clicking

Position the pointer over the objec t. Press the left button and hold i t down, then use the touchpad to move (drag) the object to the appropriate part of the scr een. Release the button to drop the object where you want it.

Tips & Tricks You receiv ed y our not ebook with the EZ P ad to uchpad set

to only accept cli cking by using the t ouc hp ad buttons. You can change this feature to allow tapping on the touchpad to simulate clicking the left button. For more infor mation, see “Changing the mouse or touchpad settings” in

Your Computer

drive. T o access t his guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentati on.

which has been included on your hard

Using

www.gateway.com

Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

Adjusting the v olume

You can use the volume control to adjust the overall volume your notebook.

To adjust the overall volume level using hardware controls:

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

speakers.

-ORPress the volume control on the notebook. For more information,

see “Front” on page 10.

Tips & Tricks For instructions on how to adjust the volume in Windows,

see “Adjusting th e Volume” in has been inclu ded on your ha rd drive. To access this guide , click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Using Your Computer

which

www.gateway .com

Turning your wi reless radio on or off

T urning y our wireless r adio on or off

Warning Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere

with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations requi r e wire les s devices to be turned off while trav eling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, and IEEE 802.11g communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication.

Warning In environments where the risk of interference to other

devices or services is harmful or perceived as harmful, the option to use a wireless device may be restricted or eliminated. Airports, hospitals, and oxygen or flammable gas laden atmospheres are limited examples where use of wireless devices may be re st rict ed or e li mi nate d. Whe n in environments where you are uncertain of the sanction to use wireless devices, ask the applicable authority for authorization prior to us e or turning on the wire less de vice .

Your Gateway notebook may have wireless networking built-in.

To turn the wireless radio on or off:

■ Press FN + F2. The wireless status indicator turns on or off. For the

location of the wireless status indicator, see “Status indicators” on

page 28.

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Chapter 3: Gettin g Started

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Chapter 4

Using Drives and Ports

• Using D VD driv es

• Using the media card reader

•Using a PC Card

• Viewing the display on a monitor or projector

• Connecting a video cam era to your notebook

Chapter 4: Using Drive s and Ports

Using the D VD drive

Y ou can use your notebook to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features.

Important Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may

not be able to play these CDs on your notebook.

Identifying drive types

Your Gateway note book may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive for one o r more of the following logos:

If your drive has thi s logo... This is your drive type... Use your drive for...

ROM/R/RW

Combination DVD/CD-RW drive

Multi-format DVD

±RW/CD-RW drive

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, and recording music and data to recordable CDs. You cannot use this drive to create DVDs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, recording music and data to CD-R or CD-RW discs, and recording video and data to DVD-R, DV D + R , DVD - R W, o r DV D + RW d i s c s .

www.gateway .com

Inserting a CD or DVD

Eject button

To insert a CD or DVD:

Using the DVD drive

Manual eje ct hole

1 Press the eject button on the DVD drive. After the tray opens slightly,

pull the disc tray completely open.

2 Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up, then press down

carefully on the disc until it snaps into place.

Important When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure

that the label side is facing u p. If the disc h as tw o playable sides, place the disc so the name of the side you want to play is facing up.

3 Push the tray in until it is closed.

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Chapter 4: Using Drive s and Ports

Playing a CD

Use a music program or Windows Media Play er on your notebook to:

■ Play music CDs

■ Create MP3 and WMA music files from your music CDs

■ Edit music track information

■ Use your music files to build a music library

Tips & Tricks For more information about playing CDs, see “Using

Windows Media Player” in been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Using Your Computer

which has

Playing a D VD

A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because of this increas ed capacity, full-length movi es, several albums of music, or several gigabytes of data can fit on a single disc. You can play DVDs with a DVD program or Windows Media Player.

Tips & Tricks For more information about playing DVDs, see “Using

Windows Media Player” and “Using CyberLink PowerD VD” in

Using Your Computer

hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

which has been included on your

Crea ting CDs and DV Ds

You can use a CD and DVD burning program, Windows X P, Windows Media Player, or Windows Movie Maker to copy or create data CDs and DVDs, create music CD s, create video DVDs, and more.

Tips & Tricks For more information about creating CDs and DVDs, see

“Using Window s Media Play er”, “Using Nero Express”, a nd “Editing videos” in included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then clic k Gateway Documentation.

www.gateway .com

Using Your C omput er

which has been

Using the memor y card reader

Using the memory card reader

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

Memory card types

The memory card reader supports Memory Stick®, Memory Stick Pro®, MultiMediaCard™, and Secure Digital™.

Inserting a memory card

To insert a memory card:

1 Remove the protector from the memory card slot. For the location

of the memo ry card slot, se e “Front” on p age 10. To remove the protector, follow the steps in “Removing a memory ca rd” on page 44.

2 Insert the memory card into the memory card slot with the label

facing up and the arrow on the label poi nting towards the notebook.

Using a memory card

To access a file on a memory card:

1 Click Start, then click My Computer. 2 Double-click the drive letter (for example, the E: drive), th en

double-click the file name.

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Chapter 4: Using Drive s and Ports

Removing a memory card

Important Do not use the remove hardware icon in the taskbar

to remove the memory card. If you use the remove hardware icon, your notebook may not recognize your memory card reader until you restart your notebook.

To remove a memory card:

1 Push the memory card into the notebook. The memory card pops

out slightly.

2 Pull the memory card out of the notebook. 3 Insert the protector into the memory card slot.

Adding and r emoving a PCCard

Your notebook has a PC Card slot (also known as a PCMCIA card slot). This slot accepts one Type II card. Yo u do not need to restart your notebook when changing mo st cards because your notebook supports hot-swapping. Hot-swapping means that you can insert a PC Card while your notebook is running. If your PC Card does not work after hot-swapping, see the PC Card manufacturer’s documentation fo r further information.

www.gateway .com

Adding and re moving a PC Car d

To insert a PC Card:

■ Push the card firmly into the PC Card slot label-side up until the

outer edge of the card is flush with the side of your notebook.

To remove a PC Card:

1 Click the remove hardware icon in the taskbar, the PC Card

name, then click

-ORTurn off your notebook.

Important If the remove hardware icon does not appear on the

Stop.

taskbar, click the show hidden icons button.

2 Release the eject button by pressing the PC Card eject button once. 3 Eject the PC Ca rd by pressing the eject button again.

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Chapter 4: Using Drive s and Ports

Viewing the displa y on a projector or monitor

You can use your notebook for giving presentations by connecting an external monitor or projector to your monitor (VGA) port. Y our notebook supports simultaneous LCD and external display. Simultaneous display lets you control the presentation from your notebook and at the same time face your audience.

To use a projector or external monitor:

1 Turn off your notebook. 2 Plug the projector or monitor cable into the VGA port on your

notebook. For the location of the VGA port, see “Left side” on

page 11.

3 Turn on your notebook. 4 Plug the projector’s or monitor’s power cord into an AC power source

and turn it on. Wind ows reco gni zes th e new hardware and se arches 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 opens.

Properties. The Display Properties dialog box

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6 Click the Settings tab.

Viewing the display on a projector or monitor

7 Right-click the second monitor icon (labeled 2), then click Attached. 8 Click Apply. 9 Adjust properties such as Screen Resolut ion or Color Quality if

necessary.

10 Click OK.

Important Press FN+F4 to swi tch between viewi ng the displa y on th e

LCD panel and viewing the display on the projector or monitor.

Important If an external monitor or projector is connected and you

close the LCD panel, your notebook may turn off the LCD panel, but will not enter Standby mode.

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Chapter 4: Using Drive s and Ports

Co nnecting a video camera to your not ebook

Your notebook has a 4-pin IEEE 1394 port (also known as a Firewire® or i.Link

To connect your video camera to your notebook:

port) for connecting devices such as a video ca mera.

1 Connect one end of the IEEE 1394 cable to your video camera.

Important For more information about using the IEEE 1394 port on

your video camera, see your camera’s documentation.

2 Connect the other end of the cable to the IEEE 1394 port on

the side of your notebook.

Tips & Tricks For more information about editing video, see “Editing

videos” in on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Using Your Computer

www.gateway .com

which has been included

Chapter 5

Managing Power

• Checkin g and recharging the b attery

• Recalibrat ing the battery

• Changing batteries

• Extending the lif e of the battery

Chapter 5: Managin g Power

Monitoring the battery charge

Closely monitor the battery charge. W hen the battery charge gets low, change the battery or connect to AC power immediately to prevent losing any unsaved work. To monitor the battery charge:

■ Double-click the power cord icon or battery icon in the

taskbar. The Power Met er dialog box opens.

Important If the power cord or battery icon does not appear on the

taskbar , clic k the show hidd en icons button. If the icon still does not appear, make sure that Always show icon on the taskbar is checked on the Advance tab in the

Power Options Properties

For more information, see “Changing advanced settings” in

Using Your Computer

hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

■ Look at the power/battery charge indicator (see “Back” on page 13):

■ LED solid blue - notebook is on, and if the notebook is connected

dialog box.

which has been included on your

to AC power, the battery is fully charged.

■ LED blinking blue - notebook is in Standby mode.

■ LED solid purple - battery is charging.

■ LED blinking purple - battery is charging and notebook is in

Standby mode.

■ LED blinking red - battery charge is very low and has insufficient

power to turn on the notebook.

■ LED off - notebook is off.

■ Wait for a Low Battery warning message to appear.

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Recharging the batte ry

If your power/battery charge indicator displays what looks like an inaccurate charge, you may need to recalibrate the ba ttery. For more information, see “Recalibrating the battery” on page 51 .

Recharging the battery

The battery recharges while it is installed and your notebook is connected to AC power. While the battery recharges, the p ower/battery charge indicator turns on and the power cord icon in the taskbar has a lightning bolt .

Important If the power cord or battery icon does not appear on the

taskbar , clic k the show hidd en icons button. If the icon still does not appear, make sure that Always show icon on the taskbar is checked on the Advance tab in the

Power Options Properties

dialog box.

For more information, see “Changing notebook power settings” in on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Using Your Computer

which has b een include d

Recalibrati ng the battery

If your notebook unexpectedly goes into Standby mode while you are using it but the battery charge is not low, you may need to recalibrate your battery. You should also recalibrate the battery periodically to maintain the accuracy of the battery gauge.

To recalibrate the battery:

1 Close all open files and programs. 2 Connect your notebook to AC power and let the battery charge

completely.

3 Disconnect the AC power and restart your notebook.

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Chapter 5: Managin g Power

4 Completely discharge the battery by doing the following:

a From the desktop, right-click on the power icon, then select

Adjust Power Properties.

b Click the Pow er Sc he m es tab. c C lick the arrow button to open the Power Schemes list, then click

Always On.

d Click the Alarms tab. e C lick to clea r the Low battery alarm and Critical battery alarm check

boxes. Let the battery drain until your notebook automatically turns off.

Important Do not use your notebook during the recalibration process.

Do not connect the AC adapter to your notebook during this process, or you will interrupt the recalibrati on proc es s and will have to start again.

5 After the battery is completely drained, reconnect your notebook to

AC power.

6 Charge the battery completely until the battery status indicator turns

blue.

7 When you are ready to use your notebook again, do the following:

a From the desktop, right-click the power icon, then select Adjust

Pow er Properties

b Click the Pow er Sc he m es tab. c C lick the arrow button to open the Power Schemes list, then click

Portable/Laptop.

d Click the Alarms tab. e C lick to select the Low battery alarm and Critical battery alar m check

boxes.

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Changing batte ries

Changing batt eries

If your notebook is connected to AC power, you can change the battery while the notebook is turned on. If your notebook is not plugged into an AC outlet, you must turn the notebook off while changing the battery .

Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

Replace only with a battery specifically manufactured for your Gate w ay notebook . Discard u sed batteries accordin g to local hazardous material regulations.

The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mishandled. Do not disassemble, heat above 212°F (100°C), or incinerate. Dispose of used battery promptly. Keep away from children.

Replacing the battery

To replace the battery:

1 Disconnect your notebook from the optional port replicator

(“Disconnecting from the port replicator” on page 78).

2 If your notebook is on and is connected to AC power, go to Step 3.

-ORIf your notebook is on and is not plugged into an AC outlet, save

your work and turn off your notebook.

3 Close the LCD panel. 4 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up.

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Chapter 5: Managin g Power

5 Slide the battery lock to the unlock position.

6 Slide the battery release latch, then slide the battery out of the

notebook.

7 Slide a recharged battery into the notebook until it snaps into place.

8 Slide the battery lock to the locked position. 9 Turn your notebook over.

10 Open the LCD panel and press the power button.

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Extending batter y life

Extending battery life

Conserving batt ery power

To conserve power while using the battery to power your notebook:

■ Dim the display as low as is comfortable.

■ Remove PC Cards when you do not need them. Many PC Cards use

a small amount of power while inserte d, even if they are not being used.

■ Modify the power management settings for maximum power

savings.

Tips & Tricks For more information about using power management

setting s, see “Cha nging Power-Saving Sett ings” in

Your Computer

drive. T o access t his guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentati on.

which has been included on your hard

Using

■ Close the LCD panel to turn off the display while you are not using

your notebook. The display stay s off unti l y ou open the panel again.

■ Use Hibernate mode for maximum power savings while your

notebook is not in use.

Tips & Tricks For more information about using Hibernate mode, see

“Changing notebook power settings” in

Computer

access this guide, click Start, All Programs, th en click Gateway Documentation.

■ Use the DVD drive only when nece ssary. This drive uses a larg e

which has be en in cluded on your hard drive. To

Using Your

amount of power.

■ Recharge the battery often, take an extra battery, and fully recharge

the batteries before traveling. For more information, see “Recharging

the battery” on page 51 and “Changing batteries” on page 53.

www.gateway.com

Chapter 5: Managin g Power

Tips & Tricks For more information about traveling with your notebook,

see “Tra veling w ith your no tebook” in which has been i ncluded on y our hard driv e. To acces s this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

Using Your Computer

Using alterna te power sourc es

To extend batter y life, use alternate power sources whenever possible.

■ If traveling internationally, take electrical adapters. Save the battery

for times when you cannot use a power adapter . If you plan on taking your AC power adapter, also take a single-plug surge protector.

■ If you will have access to an EmPower™ in-flight power receptacle,

an automobile power outlet, or an automobile cigarette lighter, use a power inverter. Save the battery for times when you cannot use a power adapter.

■ To find AC power outlets in airports, look for them next to support

pillars, in large areas such as boarding gates, and under banks of telephones.

Changing pow er modes

You can use the following power modes to lengthen the life of your notebook’s battery:

■ Standby - while your notebook is in Standby, it switches to a low

power state where devices, such as the display and drives, turn off.

■ Hibernate - (also called s ave to disk) writes all current memory (RAM)

information to the hard drive, then turns y our notebook completely off. The next time you turn on your notebook, it reads the memory information from the hard drive an d opens the programs and documents that were open when you activated Hibernate mode.

Using power saving modes

Always save your work before usin g Standby mode. In Standby mo de, your notebook reduces or turns off the power to most devices except memory. However, the information in memory is not saved to the hard drive. If power is interrupted, the information is lost.

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Extending batter y life

When in Hibernate mode, your notebook saves all memory information to the hard drive, then turns the power completely off.

If your notebook is... ...and you want to... ...then

On Enter Standby m ode Press FN+F3. On Enter Hibernate

mode (must be activated)

In Standby or Hibernate mode

Exit Standby or Hibernate mode

Click Start, then click Turn Off Computer. Press and hold

SHIFT, then click Hibernate.

Press th e power button.

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Chapter 5: Managin g Power

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Chapter 6

Upgrading Your Notebook

• Adding and rep lacing memory

• Replacing th e hard drive

Chapter 6: Upgrading Your Notebook

Pre venting sta tic electricity discharge

Important Before installing memory or replacing the hard drive, you

should read and understa nd the in f ormation in t his sec tion.

The components inside your notebook are extremely sensitive to static electricity, also known as el ectrostatic discharge (ESD).

Warning To avoi d exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and

moving parts, turn o ff your note book and unplug the power cord, modem cab le , and netw ork cab le be fore opening the case.

Warning To prevent ri sk of electr ic shock, d o not i nser t any obj ect

into the vent holes of the notebook.

Before installing memory or replacing the hard drive, follow these guidelines:

■ Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors, pl astic, and

packing fo am.

■ Remove components from their antistatic bags only when you are

ready to use them. Do not lay components on the outside of antistatic bags because only the inside of the bags provide electrostatic protection.

■ Always hold components by their edges. Avoid touching the edge

connectors. Never slide components over a ny surface.

■ Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most electronics stores)

and attach it to a bare metal part of your workbench or other grounded connection.

■ Touch a ba re metal surface on your wo rkbench or other grounded

object.

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Adding or replaci ng memory

Adding or replacing memory

Your notebook uses memory modules called SO-DIMMs (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules). The modules are available in various capacities and any m odule can be placed in the slot. Use only memor y modules designed for your Gateway notebo ok for upgrading your memory.

Memory

bay

To add or replace memory modules:

1 Follow the guidelines under “Preventing static electricity discharge”

on page 60 .

2 Turn off your notebook. 3 Disco nnect the A C adapte r, modem cable , and netw ork cabl e. 4 Disconnect all peripheral devices and remove any PC cards. 5 Disconnect your notebook from the optional port replicator (see

“Disconnecting from the port replicator” on page 7 8).

6 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up.

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Chapter 6: Upgrading Your Notebook

7 Remove the battery. For more information, see “Replacing the

battery” on page 53.

8 Remove the memory bay cover screw.

Screw

9 Slide the memory bay cover, then remove it.

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Adding or replaci ng memory

10 If you are removing a module, gently press out ward on the clip at

each end of the memory module until the module tilts upward.

Clip

11 Pull the memory module out of the slot.

Clip

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Chapter 6: Upgrading Your Notebook

12 Hold the new or replacement module at a 30-degree angle and press

it into the empty memory slot. This module is keyed so it can only be inserted in one direction. If the module does not fit, make sure that the notch in the module lines up with the tab in the memory bay.

Important Use onl y memory modules de signed for your

Gateway notebook.

13 Gently push the module down until it clicks in place. 14 Replace the memor y bay cover, then replace the cove r screw. 15 Insert the battery, then turn your notebook over. 16 Reconnect the optional port replicator. 17 Connect the power adapter, modem cable, and network cable, then

turn on your notebook.

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Replacing the har d drive kit

Replacing the hard drive kit

If you would like more hard drive capacity, you can replace your original drive with a hig her-capacity dri ve.

Hard drive

To replace the hard drive kit:

1 Back up any data you want to transfer to the new hard drive. For

more information, see “Backing up files” in Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click

Start, All Programs, th en click Gateway Documentation.

2 Follow the guidelines under “Preventing static electricity discharge”

on page 60 .

3 Turn off your notebook. 4 Disco nnect the A C adap ter, modem cabl e, and ne twork ca ble. 5 Disconnect all peripheral devices and remove any PC cards. 6 Disconnect your notebook from the optional port replicator (see

“Disconnecting from the port replicator” on page 7 8).

7 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up.

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Chapter 6: Upgrading Your Notebook

8 Remove the battery. For more information, see “Changing batterie s”

on page 53 .

9 Remove the hard drive bay cov er screw, slide the hard drive bay

cover, then remove it.

Screw

10 Remove the two screws securing the hard driv e kit to the no tebook.

Screw

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Replacing the har d drive kit

11 Slide the old hard drive kit away from the hard drive connector , then

lift the hard drive kit out of your notebook.

12 If your new hard drive already includes the hard drive kit bracket,

go to Step 17.

-ORIf you need to move the hard drive kit bracket from your old hard

drive kit to your new hard drive, go to Step 13.

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Chapter 6: Upgrading Your Notebook

13 Remove the screws that secure the hard drive to the hard drive kit

bracket.

Screws

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14 Remove the bracket from the old drive.

Replacing the har d drive kit

15 Insert the new drive into the bracket so the screw holes line up. 16 Replace the screws that secure the bracket to the drive. 17 Slide the new hard drive kit into your notebook, then replace the

screws that secure the hard drive kit to the notebook.

18 Replace the hard drive bay c over and replace the cover screw. 19 Insert the battery, then turn your notebook over. 20 Reconnect the optional port replicator.

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Chapter 6: Upgrading Your Notebook

21 Connect the power adapter, modem cable, and network cable, then

turn on your notebook.

22 For instructions on installing Windows, your drivers, and your

applications, see the instructions in the restore booklet that came with your notebook.

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Chapter 7

Using the Optional Port Replicator

• Identifying f eatures

• Connecting and disco nnecting the port replicator

• Securing the port replicator wi th a locking cable

Chapter 7: Using th e Optional Port Replicat or

Top

Component Icon Description

Power button

Power button Press to turn the power on or off.

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Right

USB ports

Component Icon Description

USB ports Plug USB devices (such as a diskette drive, flash

drive, printer, scanner , camer a, ke yboard, or mou se) into these ports.

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Chapter 7: Using th e Optional Port Replicat or

Back

USB

Headphone

jack

IEEE 1394 port

Component Icon Description

Headphone jack Plug amplified speakers or headphones into this jack.

port

Parallel port

Serial port

The built-in speakers are turned off when speakers or headphones are plugged into this jack.

Monitor port

Ethernet jack

Power connector

IEEE 1394 port Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire

device (such as a digital camcorder or exter nal hard drive) into this 4-pin IEEE 1394 port.

USB port Plug a USB device (such as a diskett e drive, flash drive,

print er, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mo use) int o this port.

Parallel port Plug a parallel device (such as a printer) into this port.

Serial port Plug a serial device into this port.

Monitor port Plug an analog VGA monitor or projector into this port.

Ethernet jac k Plug a 10/100/100 0 Ethernet network cable into th is jack.

The other end of the cable can be plugged into a cable modem, DSL modem, or an Ethernet network jack. For more info rmation, see “Connecting to a cable or DSL

modem or to an Ethernet network” on page 24.

or i.Link®)

Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

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Connecting to the po rt replicator

Co nnecting to the port replicator

Y o u can attach your notebook to the port replicator while your notebook is off, on, or in Standby mode.

Attaching t o the port replicator

To attach your notebook to the port replicator:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter that was packaged with

your port replicator.

2 Connect the AC adapter to your port replicator’s power connector.

For more information, see “Back” on page 74.

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Chapter 7: Using th e Optional Port Replicat or

3 Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. 4 Connect external devices to the ports on the port replicator. 5 Plug the port replicator into t he port replicator jack on the notebook.

For more information, see “Left side” on page 11.

6 Press the power button located on the top of the port replicator.

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Connecting to the po rt replicator

Important The notebook may detect additional devices and add

drivers after being attached to the por t replicator. This process must be completed for components to work correctl y. Follow any on-sc reen instr uctions, if ne cessar y.

Important The port replicator’s power button controls both the

notebook and the port replicator only after the por t replicator is connected to AC power.

Important The notebook’s monitor port is disabled when the port

replicator is conne ct ed to the not ebook. If yo u w ant t o use an external monitor, plug it into the monitor port on the port replicator.

Important The notebook’s Ethernet jack is disabled when the port

replicator is connected to the notebook. If you want to connect to a cable or DSL modem, or to an Ethernet network, plug the Eth ernet cable into the Ethernet jack on the port replicator.

Important If you are using a USB or parallel port printer connected

to the port replicator, y ou mus t select Virtual printer port for USB during the Windo w s printer ins tallati on. Wind ow s will not be able to det ect your printer if y ou make a diff erent selection.

Important This port replicator does not support Fast IR.

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Chapter 7: Using th e Optional Port Replicat or

Disconnecting from the port replicator

You can separate your notebook from the port replicator while your notebook is off or on (not in Standby or Hibern ate mode).

To separate your notebook from the port replicator:

1 If your notebook is off, go to Step 2.

-ORIf your notebook is on, click

Undock Computer menu i tem ap pears in the Start menu only while the notebook is docked.

Start, then click Undock Computer. The

2 Unplug the port replicator from the notebook.

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Chapter 8

Maintaining Your Notebook

• Caring for y our notebook

• Cleaning y our notebook

• Protecting your notebook from viruses

• Updating Windows

• Restoring your system

Chapter 8: Maintaini ng Your Notebook

Caring for your not ebook

To extend the life of your notebook:

■ Be careful not to bump or drop your note book, and do not put any

objects on top of it. The case, although strong, is not made to support extra weight.

■ When transporting your notebook, we recommend that you put it

in a carryi ng case.

■ Keep your notebook away f rom ma gnetic fields. Magnetic fields can

erase data on hard drives.

■ Never turn off your notebook when the drive indicator is on because

data on the hard drive could be lost or corrupted.

■ Avoid subjecting your notebook to extreme temperature changes.

The case (and LCD panel) can become brittle and easy to break in cold temperatures and can melt or warp in high temperatures. Damage due to either extreme is not c overed by your warranty. As a gener al rule, y our note book is sa fest at te mperatur es that a re comfortable for you.

■ Keep all liquids away from your notebook. When spilled onto

computer components, almost any liquid can result in expensive repairs that are not covered under your warranty.

■ Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt can clog the

internal mechanisms and can lead to permanent damage to the notebook.

■ Do not block the ventilation fan slots. If these slots are blocked, your

notebook may overheat resulting in un expected shutdown or permanent damage to the notebook.

■ When storing your notebook for an extended period of time, unplug

AC power and remove the battery after discharging it partway.

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Cleaning your noteb ook

Cleaning y our notebook

Keeping your notebook clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your notebook performing at its best. You may want to gather th ese items and put together a notebook cleaning kit:

■ A soft, lint-free cloth

■ An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like extension

■ Cotton s wabs

■ A DVD drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

Warning When you shut down your notebook, the power turns off,

but some electrical current still flows through your notebook. To avoid possible injury from electrical shock, unplug the power cord, modem cable, and network cable from the wall outlets.

Always turn off your notebook and other peripherals before cleaning any components. Also, remove the batter y before clea ning any co mponents.

Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean your notebook and other parts of your system. Do not use household abrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damage the finish on components.

Your notebook is cooled by air circulated through the vents on the case, so keep the vents free of dust. With your notebook turned off and unplugged, brush the dust away from the vents with a damp cloth. Be careful not to drip any water into the vents. Do not attempt to clean dust from the inside of your notebook.

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Chapter 8: Maintaini ng Your Notebook

Cleaning the keyboard

You should clean the keyboard occasionally by using an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like extension to remove d ust and lint trapped under the keys.

If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off yo ur notebook and turn the notebook upside down. Let the liquid drain, then let the keyboard dry before trying to use it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it.

Cleaning the notebook screen

Use a soft cloth and water to clean the LCD scree n. Squirt a little water on the cloth (never directly on the screen), and wipe the screen with the cloth.

Caution A notebook LCD screen is made of specially coated glass

and can be scratched or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based glass cleaners.

Cleaning CDs or DVDs

Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a c irc le, using a product made especiall y for the purpose.

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Protecting your notebook from viruses

A virus is a program that attaches itself to a file on a computer, then spreads from one computer to another . V iruses can damage data or cause your notebook to malfunction. Some viruses go undetected for a period of time because they are activated on a certain date.

Protect your notebook from a virus by:

■ Register in g y ou r co p y of No rto n

Internet Security and subscribing to the virus definition upd ate service. Y ou received a free limited time subscription to the Norton Internet Security service when you purchased your notebook.

■ Using the Norton Internet Security program to check files and

programs that are attached t o e-mail messag es or downloa ded from the Internet.

■ Checking all programs for viruses before installing them.

■ Disabling macros on suspicious Microsoft Word and Excel files.

These programs will warn you if a document that you are opening contains a mac ro that might have a vi rus.

■ Periodically updating the Norton Internet Security program to

protect against the latest viruses.

■ Making sure the Windows Security Center is configured to provide

you with the highest level of protection.

Tips & Tricks For more inform ation ab out modifyi ng secur ity setti ngs,

Help and

Support

see “Modifying Security Se ttin gs ” in which has been i ncluded on y our hard driv e. To acces s this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

For more information about protecting your notebook against viruses, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword viruses in the Search box

, then click the arrow.

www.gateway.com

Using Your Computer

Chapter 8: Maintaini ng Your Notebook

To scan for vi ruses:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Norton Internet Security, then click Norton

Internet Security

. Norton Internet Security op ens.

2 Click Norton AntiVirus.

www.gateway .com

3 Click Scan for Viruses.

Protecting your notebook from viruses

4 Click the type of scan you want to make in the Scan for Viruses area.

To remove a virus:

1 If Norton Internet Security finds a virus, follow all on-screen

instructions to remove the virus.

2 Turn off your notebook and leave it off for at least 30 seconds. 3 Turn on your notebook and rescan for the virus.

To update Norton Internet Security:

Important You receiv ed a free lim ited ti me sub scription to the N orton

Internet Security service when you purchased your notebook. To update Norton Internet Security after the free subscription period, you must extend your subscription.

1 Make sure that you are connected to the Internet. 2 Click Start, All Programs, Norton Internet Security, then click Norton

Internet Security

. Norton Internet Security op ens.

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Chapter 8: Maintaini ng Your Notebook

3 Click LiveUpdate. The LiveUpdate wizard opens. 4 Follow the on-screen instructions to update your Norton Internet

Security program with the latest virus protection files.

5 When the program has finished, click Finish.

Updating W indows

Windows Up date is the online extension of Windows that help s you keep your notebook up-to-date. Use Wind ows Update to choose updates for your notebook’s operating system, software, and hardware. New content is added to the site regularly, so you can always get the most recent updates and fixes to protect your notebook and keep it runnin g smoothly . Windows Update scans your notebook and provides you with a tailored selection of updates that apply only to the software and hardware on your notebook.

To run Windows Update:

1 Connect to the Internet. 2 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Update . 3 Follow the on-screen instructions.

Help and

Support

For more information about Windows Update in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword Windows Update in the HelpSpot

Search box , then click the arrow.

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Restoring your syste m

Restoring your syst em

All programs that were preinstalled on yo ur notebook are available on the backup restore discs that you created with the recovery media program, on the hard drive, or on restore discs that were included with your notebook. If you need to restore your notebook to the original configuration, you can use the backup restore discs or you can use the backup files located on the hard drive.

The instructions for using the restore discs or hard drive backup files are included in the instruction booklet that came with your notebook.

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Chapter 8: Maintaini ng Your Notebook

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Chapter 9

Troubleshooting

• Troubleshooting typica l hardware an d software pro blems

• Getting telephon e support

• Using automated troub leshooting systems

Chapter 9: Trouble shooting

Safety guidelines

While troubleshooting your notebook, follow these safety guidelines:

■ Never remove the memory bay or hard drive bay cover while your

notebook is turned on, while the battery is installed, and while the modem cable, network cable, and AC power adap ter are connected to your notebook.

■ Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal

components. For more information about preventing damage from static electricity, see “Preventing static electricity discharge” on

page 60.

■ After you complete any maintenance tasks where you remove the

memory bay or h ard d rive ba y co ver, make sure tha t yo u rep lace t he cover, reinstall any screws, then replace the battery before you start your notebook.

Warning Do not tr y to t roubles hoot your pr oblem if power cords or

plugs are damaged, if your notebook was dropped, or if the case was damaged. Instead, unplug your notebook and contact a qualified computer technician.

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F irst steps

If you have problems with your notebook, try these things first:

■ Make sure that the AC power adapter is connected to your notebook

and an AC outlet and that the AC outlet is supplying power.

■ If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure that it is turned

on.

■ If a peripheral device (such as a keyboard or mouse) does not work,

make sure that all connections are secure.

■ Make sure that your hard drive is not full.

■ If an error message appears on the screen, write down the ex act

message. The message may help Gateway Customer Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem.

First steps

■ If you added or removed per ipheral devices, rev iew the installat ion

procedures you performed and make sure that you followed each instruction.

■ If an error occurs in a program, see the pro gram’s printed

documentation or the online help.

Help and

Support

For more information about troubleshooting, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword troubleshooting in the Search box

, then click the arrow.

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Chapter 9: Trouble shooting

Troubleshooting

Audio

Audio troubleshooting is covered under “Sound” on pag e 109.

Battery

Battery troubleshooting is cov ered under “Power” on page 107.

CD drives

CD drive troubleshooting is covered u nder “DVD drives” on page 94.

Device installa tion

You have computer problems after adding a new device

Sometimes a new device, such as a PC Card, can cause a system resource (IRQ) conflict. Check IRQ usage to determine if there is an IRQ conflict.

To check IRQ usage:

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 Devic e Manager window opens.

3 Click View, then click Resources by type. Double-click Interrupt

request (IRQ)

displayed.

. All IRQs and their hardware assignments are

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Troubleshooting

Help and

Support

For more information about IRQs, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword IRQs in the Search

box , then click the arrow.

To free IRQ resources for the new device:

1 In the Device Manager window, check the device list for a

resource conflict. A reso urce conflict appears as a bl ack exclamation point in a yellow circle.

2 Remove the device you are trying to install, then determine

which one of the existing devices or ports you can disable.

3 Right-click the device or port you want to disable, then click

Disable. The device or port is disabled.

Display

The screen is too dark

Adjust the brightness using the system keys. For more information, see

“System key combinatio ns” on page 31.

The screen resolution is not correct

Change the screen resolution from the Display Properties dialog box.

Tips & Tricks For instructions on changing the screen resolution, see

“Adjusting the screen resolution” in which has been i ncluded on y our hard driv e. To acces s this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

The text on the display is dim or difficult to read

■ Adjust the brightness and contrast using the system keys. For more

information, see “System key combinations” on page 31.

Using Your Computer

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Chapter 9: Trouble shooting

■ Change the display settings.

Tips & Tricks For instructions on changing the display settings, see

“Adjusting the screen and desktop settings” in

Computer

access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

■ Move your notebook away from sources of electrical interference,

which has be en in cluded on your hard drive. To

Using Your

such as televisions, unshielded speakers, microwaves, fluorescent lights, and metal beams or shelves.

The display has pixels that are always dark or too bright

This condition is normal and inherent in the TFT technology used in active-matrix LCD screens. Gateway’s inspection standards keep these to a minimum. If you feel these pixels are unacceptably numerous or dense on your display, contact Gateway Customer Care to identify whether a repair or replacement is justified based on the number of pixels affected.

The display is blank

■ Adjust the brightness using the system keys. For more information,

see “System key combinations ” on page 31.

■ Make sure the notebook is not in standby or hibernate mode. For

more information, see “Changing power modes” on page 56.

■ The notebook may be sending its display to an external monitor or

projector . Press F

N + F4 several times to toggle through the a ttached

display, an external monitor or projector, or both.

An external monitor or project is not working

If your notebook is connected to a port replicator, make sure the external monitor or projector is connected to the monitor port on the port replicator and not on the notebook. The notebook’s monitor port is disabled when connected to a port replica tor.

DVD drives

Your note book does not r ecogni ze a disc

■ The disc may not be seated correctly in the tray. When you place a

disc on the tray, make sure that you press the disc firmly onto the spindle so the retainers hold the disc in place.

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Gateway M250A, M250ES, M250G, M250GS, M250B User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual