Gateway 901 User Manual

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Gateway 901 Series

Family Room Media Center

User’s Guide

Table of Contents

Chapter One: Setting Up Family Room Media Center 1

About your Family Media Center 2

Planning your Family Media Center setup 3

Locating connections 3

Connections overview 4

Setting up the hardware 6

Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse 8

Connecting the audio and video source 12

Connecting the IR control cable 14

Connecting a display device 15

Connecting an audio system 17

Setting up the software 19

Chapter Two: Getting Started 21

Checking out your Gateway Family Media Center 22

Front 22

Back (Gateway FMC-901 Media Center) 25

Back (Gateway FMC-901X Media Center) 27

Learning about the remote 30

Using the remote 31

Learning about the wireless mouse 32

Using the wireless mouse 33

Fine-tuning the wireless mouse pointer control 34

Changing the wireless keyboard or mouse channels 38

Determining the wireless keyboard or mouse channels 35

Turning the wireless keyboard or mouse power on or off 35

Learning about the wireless keyboard 36

Starting the Windows XP Media Center 38

Using the Windows XP Media Center 39

Chapter Three: Using My TV 42

Watching TV 42

Using the remote to play TV recordings 43

Using the Guide 45

Table of Contents

Manually updating the Guide 46

Recording TV programs 47

Using Recorded TV 49

Changing My TV Settings 50

Burning recorded TV programs to DVD 51

Chapter Four: Using My Music 53

Getting started with My Music 54

Adding music files to the Media Library 54

Adding music CDs to the Media Library 55

Playing My Music 57

Chapter Five: Using My Pictures 61

Getting started with My Pictures 62

Organizing picture files 63

Viewing My Pictures 64

Using More Info 65

Playing audio during a slide show 66

Chapter Six: Using My Videos 67

Getting started with My Videos 68

Organizing video files 69

Viewing My Videos 70

Using More Info 71

Chapter Seven: Using Play DVD 73

Playing a DVD 74

Chapter Eight: Using Radio 77

Table of Contents

Playing the Radio 78

Using the remote to play Radio recordings 80

Changing Radio Settings 81

Chapter Nine: Using Other Features 83

Changing Windows XP Media Center Settings 84

Using More Programs 85

Using Online Spotlight 86

Chapter Ten: Getting Help 87

Media Center FAQs 88

Wireless keyboard and mouse troubleshooting 91

Getting more help 93

Using Help and Support 94

Other Family Media Center resources 95

Documentation 95

Windows Update 95

Web site 95

Contacting Gateway 96

Appendix A: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information 103

SettingUp

Family Room Media Center

• Plan your Family Media Center setup

• Set up hardware and software

ChapterOne

About your Family Media Center

The Family Media Center provides rich entertainment and powerful computing capabilities. You can run the Windows XP Media Center while using other programs or just enjoy the Windows XP Media Center in full-screen mode without using other programs.

Use the Family Media Center remote the same way you use remotes for other home entertainment systems. You can use the remote and Family Media Center to watch and record TV, play videos and music, and view pictures.

Use the wireless keyboard and mouse to run Windows XP Media Center and other programs.

Planning your Family Media Center setup

Locating connections

You’ve probably already decided where you want to locate your Family Media Center, but before you start setting up the Media Center, take a few minutes to make sure that all of these connections are available in the location you’ve selected.

Internet connection — Your Family Media Center needs an Internet connection to update the program guide and to access the Internet. Make sure that you have access to a dial-up or broadband Internet connection before starting your Media Center software setup. Contact your Internet service provider for more information about setting up your Internet connection.

Video source — Make sure that you have access to a video source before starting your Family Media Center setup. Your Media Center receives video input from a coaxial, composite video, or S-Video cable. The video source usually comes from an antenna, direct cable TV connection, cable box, or satellite receiver. Cable boxes and satellite receivers are also called set-top boxes.

Connections overview

Your Family Media Center accepts a variety of audio and video inputs and it can output audio and video to a number of audio and video devices. This is a sample setup diagram of a Media Center configuration. The possible audio and video input connections to your Family Media Center and the audio and video output connections from the Media Center are shown. For detailed information about setting up the Media Center, see “Setting up the hardware” on page 6.

Caution:

Ventilation slots are located on the sides of your Family Media Center to allow for correct ventilation. To ensure reliable operation and to protect your Media Center from overheating, make sure that the ventilation slots are not blocked and that there is space around the ventilation slots for air circulation.

Connect to the Internet using:

• RJ-11 jack

• RJ-45 jack

Connect to an audio device using:

• 1/8” Digital Out jack

• 1/8” Analog Out jacks (front, rear, subwoofer/center speakers)

• Toslink Digital Out jack

Connect to a display device using:

• DVI-D Out jack

• S-Video Out jack

• VGA Out port

Connect to your Family Media Center using:

• Cable set-top box (S-Video, composite, or coaxial connection)

• Satellite receiver set-top box (S-Video, composite, or coaxial connection)

• Antenna (coaxial connection)

Setting up the hardware

Gateway FMC-901 Media Center

1 Connect the modem or

broadband Internet (optional)

2 Connect the audio/video source

A coaxial (TV in) connection carries both the

audio and video signals.

If you use an S-Video

or a Composite video connection, you will also need to connect audio using RCA or Toslink stereo plugs.

For detailed instructions about connecting the audio/video source, see page 12.

3 Connect the IR control

Plug one end of the IR control into your

computer, then stick the other end to the set-top box sensor window.

remove the adhesive paper from the back of the IR control

For detailed instructions about connecting the IR control cable, see page 14.

Gateway FMC-901X Media Center

4 Connect to a display

Connect to a monitor or television using a

VGA, DVI, or television cable.

For detailed instructions about connecting to a display device, see page 15.

5 Connect to an audio system

For detailed instructions about connecting to an audio

system, see page 17.

6 Install the mouse, keyboard, and remote batteries.

For more information, see “To install and charge the mouse battery pack” on page 8.

For more information, see “To install the keyboard batteries” on page 9.

7 Plug in your Media Center 8 Turn on your Media Center

Press the power button on the front of your Family Media Center.

9 Sync up wireless devices

keyboard mouse

For more information, see “Sychronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse

Before using the wireless mouse and keyboard, install the batteries into both devices, connect the power adapter to the mouse charging cradle, charge the mouse for 9 hours before using, and synchronize the mouse and keyboard with the radio frequency (RF) receiver on your Family Media Center.

To install and charge the mouse battery pack

Press the battery

release button on the end of the mouse, then remove the battery pack and discard the plastic insulator tab.

Insert the battery

pack back into the battery compartment.

Connect the power

adapter to the mouse charging cradle, then plug the power adapter into the power outlet.

Place the mouse in the charging cradle. The cradle’s

LED indicator light, located at the bottom of the cradle, turns solid green and the mouse LED indicator will faintly flash green while the batteries are charging.

The mouse LED indicator lights continuously when it is fully charged and ready to use.

Tip:

To conserve power, the mouse enters a “sleep mode” when it is left on and not used for more than 24 hours. Click any mouse button to wake the mouse from “sleep mode.”

Tip:

When the battery drops to 20% of its full charge, the mouse LED indicator blinks intermittently while in use. To optimize the NiMH

battery, recharge it at the end of each day’s use.

Tip:

If you do not need a fully charged battery for extended use, you can remove the mouse from the charging cradle at anytime. You do not need to wait for the mouse’s LED indicator light to stop flashing.

Tip:

The keyboard cover may be attached to the back of the keyboard when you receive it. Remove the keyboard cover from the back of the keyboard, as shown below, to access the battery compartment cover.

To protect the keyboard when not in use, you can place the keyboard cover over the keyboard keys.

To install the keyboard batteries

Press the keyboard cover tabs down to remove

the keyboard cover from the back of the keyboard.

Remove the battery compartment cover.

Insert 4 AAA batteries into the battery

compartment. Make sure that you match the + and – on the batteries with the + and – symbols inside the battery compartment.

Replace the battery compartment cover and

keyboard cover.

Tip:

When synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse, make sure that you synchronize (teach) both the keyboard and mouse during the same Learning mode session. If you synchronize one wireless device and later enter the Learn mode to synchronize the other wireless device, the Learn mode erases all previous learned settings from memory and looks for new devices.

After the Teach/Learn sequence is complete, the receiver, keyboard, and mouse remain synchronized after turning off your Family Media Center or changing the channels the devices operate on. You only have to perform the Teach/Learn sequence when the devices are first installed or when adding additional devices to the system. For more information about changing the mouse or keyboard channels, see “Changing the keyboard or mouse channels” on page 34.

To synchronize the wireless mouse and keyboard

Press and hold the Learn button on your Family

Media Center for 2 seconds then release the button. The Status light on the Family Media Center’s front panel blinks slowly to indicate the receiver is in the Learn mode.

Before synchronizing the mouse and keyboard,

make sure that the batteries are installed in the keyboard and the battery pack is fully charged and installed in the mouse. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

Learn button

Teach button

Press and release the

Teach button located on the bottom of the mouse. The Status light on the Family Media Center’s front panel blinks rapidly for four seconds, then begins blinking slowly.

Press and release

the Teach button on the top left corner of the wireless keyboard.

Teach button

To exit the Learn mode, press the Learn button on

your Family Media Center for two seconds. If you do not exit the Learn mode, it will automatically time out after five minutes.

Connecting the audio and video source

Your Family Media Center has connectors for coaxial (TV), S-Video, or composite video. Select the connector that your video source supports:

• Coaxial (TV) — The video and audio signals are both carried on one cable. The coaxial cable is the way to connect a direct cable or an antenna video source to your Media Center.

• S-Video or composite video — S-Video signals provide the sharpest picture. Alternatively, you can use composite video for a slightly less sharp (but better than coaxial) video signal. If you use S-Video or composite video, you also need to connect the audio source using RCA stereo plugs.

To connect coaxial (TV)

Connect a coaxial cable (not included)

•

from a video device, such as a direct cable connection, a cable set-top box, a satellite set-top box, or an antenna, to the Coaxial In (TV) port on the back of your Media Center.

Tip:

The quality of the video coming into your Family Media Center determines the quality of the video output to your Media Center display device. A direct cable connection, cable set-top box, or satellite set-top box usually provides a better quality signal than an antenna. Use the highest quality video source available for best video display results.

The quality of cable used to connect the video source to your Media Center has an affect on the video output quality from your Media Center. Use high quality video cables to connect the video source to your Media Center.

Caution:

If the video devices connected to your Media Center are not grounded correctly, your Media Center could be damaged. For more information about correct grounding, see the safety and regulatory information on page 103.

To connect S-Video or composite video

Connect an S-Video or composite video cable

from a video source (such as a cable set-top box, a satellite set-top box, or other video device) to the S-Video In or Composite Video In port on the back of your Family Media Center.

- OR -

Connect an RCA cable (not included) from the

Audio Out jacks on the video device to the Audio In RCA jack on the back of your Media Center.

Connecting the IR control cable

If your Family Media Center configuration uses a set-top box for the Media Center video source, connect the infrared (IR) control cable from the Family Media Center to the set-top box IR sensor window. The IR control cable sends input from the remote sensor to your set-top box to change channels.

To connect the IR control cable

Plug the IR control cable into the IR control port

on the back of your Family Media Center.

Locate the IR sensor by shining a flashlight

through the set-top box IR sensor window. Look for a 1/2 to 3/8 inch metallic rectangle with a 1/8 inch dark circle in the middle. This is the IR sensor.

Remove the adhesive paper from the back of the

IR control.

Place the sticky side of the IR control on the

set-top box sensor window. Make sure that the IR control is placed directly in front of the IR sensor that you located in step 2.

Tip:

The Family Media Center IR control cable sends infrared signals to your set-top box or satellite receiver. However, some set-top boxes are set to receive radio frequency (RF) signals from the remote. Before using the Family Media Center remote, make sure that the set-top box is set to accept infrared signals. See your set-top box guide for information about remote settings.

Connecting a display device

You can use a computer monitor, flat-panel display, TV, or other display device. Some older TVs provide a lower quality display than computer monitors or flat-panel displays that are optimized for your Family Media Center.

Your Media Center provides display outputs from a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) port, VGA (monitor) port, or an S-Video port. Select the highest quality port that your TV supports:

• DVI — Best. Use this if your TV has a DVI port.

• VGA — Better. If your TV does not have a DVI port but has a VGA port, use this.

• S-Video — Good. S-Video display quality is usually good for TV images. The display quality for the Media Center computer functions, however, is not as good as DVI or VGA output. S-Video display output is not optimized for computer video display.

If you did not purchase a display device when you purchased your Media Center and your video display does not provide the image quality that you expected, contact a Gateway sales representative to help you select a display device that is optimized for your Media Center. See “Contacting Gateway” on page 96 for Gateway contact information.

Tip:

Many TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced video displays a video frame with two passes of alternating scan lines. The TV screen first displays the video image odd lines one at a time, sequentially from top to bottom, then it fills in the other half of the video image with the even lines. Because most TVs use this interlaced method to display the picture on the screen, a standard interlaced analog television will most likely flicker when displaying thin lines and small text. An interlaced video display device will produce a lower quality display, especially when viewing and using the Family Media Center computer functions.

Progressive scan video displays a video frame with one pass of sequential scan lines. A progressive scan TV displays the entire picture, drawn sequentially from top to bottom, without the odd/even interlacing. This results in a fuller, sharper picture, and better display quality for viewing and using the Family Media Center computer functions. The progressive scan picture is also brighter and easier on your eyes.

Tip:

If you want the audio to play from the external TV that you connected to, connect the Audio out jacks (analog or digital) to your TV Audio in jacks. If you do not connect the Audio out jacks to your TV, the sound will continue to play from your Family Media Center and other sound system connected to your Media Center.

Help:

By default, if your display device was purchased with your Family Media Center computer, the computer uses a screen resolution of 1024 x 768 for computer monitors. Many TVs cannot display this high resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the Family Media Center screen resolution to 800 x 600 or 640 x 480. For more information about adjusting display settings, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword changing display settings in the Search box, then press Enter.

To connect a display device

Connect a VGA cable (not included), S-Video

cable, or DVI cable (not included) to the VGA port, S-Video port, or DVI port on the back of your Family Media Center.

Connect the other end of the cable to the VGA

port, S-Video port, or DVI port on the back of your TV.

OR OR

Turn the TV on and select the TV In video source.

For more information about selecting the TV In video source, see your TV’s documentation.

Connecting an audio system

If you purchased a sound system with your Family Media Center, use the setup poster and other documentation that was included with the sound system to set it up.

If you have an existing stereo or home theater, you can connect your Media Center to an existing sound system. Use:

• 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cables to connect the Family Media Center to an analog sound system.

• 1/8” stereo to 1/8” stereo plug to connect the Family Media Center to digital audio inputs (S/PDIF).

• Toslink digital cable to connect your Family Media Center to digital audio inputs (S/PDIF).

Gateway FMC-901 Media Center Gateway FMC-901X Media Center

Connect rear left and right analog speakers with 1/8" stereo to RCA plug Y-cables

Connect front left and right analog speakers

with 1/8" stereo to

RCA plug Y-cables

Connect center/

subwoofer speakers

with 1/8" stereo to

RCA plug Y-cables

Connect digital

(S/PDIF) audio with

Toslink digital cable

Connect front left and right analog speakers

with 1/8" stereo to

RCA plug Y-cables

Connect center/

subwoofer speakers

with 1/8" stereo to

RCA plug Y-cables

Connect digital

(S/PDIF) audio with

Toslink digital cable

Connect digital (S/PDIF) audio with 1/8" stereo to 1/8" stereo plug for digital output or use 1/8" stereo to RCA plug for analog output

Connect rear left and right analog speakers with 1/8" stereo to RCA plug Y-cables

1/8” stereo to 1/8” stereo plug Toslink digital cable1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cables

Tip:

The audio system setup varies, depending on your sound system audio inputs. See your sound system’s user guide for more information about connecting audio inputs.

After you have connected your add-on sound system, use the sound and audio properties to select speaker setup options.

To select speaker options in XP Media Center 2004

Click Start, Control Panel, Sounds, Speech,

and Audio Devices, then click Sounds and Audio Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices

Properties dialog box opens.

Click the Volume tab, then click the Advanced

button in the Speaker Settings section. The Advanced Audio Properties dialog box opens.

Click the Speakers tab, click the arrow button

to open the Speaker setup list, then click the speaker setup that most closely matches your sound system type.

Click OK to save your speaker setup.

Tip:

If you have a Gateway FMC-901 Family Media Center model, you can also configure audio inputs with the SigmaTel audio Speaker Wizard and SigmaTel Universal Jacks dialog box. Click Start, All Programs, SigmaTel, then click one of the SigmaTel programs.

Setting up the software

1 Complete the Windows XP setup

After you’ve turned on your Family Media Center, wait for it to start up, then follow the on-screen instructions.

2 Complete external devices setup

Connect devices, such as a printer or scanner, after you

complete the Windows setup. Follow the instructions that came with the device.

3 Start the Windows XP

Media Center setup wizard

After you’ve completed the initial

Windows setup, press the Start button on your remote.

Tip:

The Windows XP Media Center setup wizard requires Internet access to complete the Windows XP Media Center software configuration. Before starting the Windows XP Media Center setup wizard in step 3, make sure that your Internet connection is set up. Contact your Internet service provider for more information about setting up your Internet connection.

Before starting the Windows XP Media Center setup wizard, check for Windows Updates to make sure that Windows XP Media Center has the most recent software releases and security updates installed. For more information, see “Windows Update” on page 95.

4 Conﬁ gure the Windows XP Media Center

software for your speciﬁ c requirements

Follow the on-screen instructions.

• Learn about your Gateway 901 Series Family Media Center

• Learn about the remote

• Learn about the wireless keyboard and mouse

GettingStarted

• Start the Windows XP Media Center

• Use your Family Media Center

ChapterTwo

Checking out your Family Media Center

Front

10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

23 45 6 7

Item Component Icon Description

1 Power button

Hard drive / card

reader indicator

3 Status display Indicates the current Media Center mode and status.

Press to turn the power on. Press to put the Family Media Center in Standby mode or resume from Standby mode.

LED blinks on and off as data is read from and written to the hard drive or memory card.

31 32 33 34 35 36 37

28 29 30

(FMC-901) DVD/CD-RW combo

drive (FMC-901X) DVD RAM/-R/CDRW

Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install games and programs, watch DVDs, and store large ﬁ les onto recordable CDs and DVDs (recordable DVD is optional)

Item Component Icon Description

DVD/CD drive eject

button

Four-way scroll

button

7 OK button Press to make menu selections.

8 Home Press to navigate to the browser’s default home page.

9 Back Press to navigate to the previous browser page.

10 S-Video In port

11 Video In port (RCA) Plug an RCA cable from a video source, such as a VCR, into this port.

Press to open the CD/DVD tray.

Press the up

Plug an S-Video cable from a video source, such as a camcorder or VCR into this port.

, down , left , or right buttons to move the pointer around the Guide and menus.

Audio In jack

(Left RCA)

Audio In jack

(Right RCA)

14 USB ports (2)

15 Headphone jack Plug ampliﬁ ed speakers or headphones into this jack.

16 Learn

17 Mic-In jack

18 IEEE 1394 ports

19 IEEE 1394 ports

USB v2.0

Plug the left channel external audio input source, such as a stereo or camcorder, to this jack so you can play sound through the Family Media Center speakers or record sound on your Family Media Center.

Plug the right channel external audio input source, such as a stereo or camcorder, to this jack so you can play sound through the Family Media Center speakers or record sound on your Family Media Center.

Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices, such as a USB printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse, into these ports.

Press to put the Family Media Center into a “learn” mode to synchronize with the mouse and keyboard. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

Plug an external microphone to record or transmit voice input.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire® or i.Link®) device, such as a digital camcorder, into the 6-pin IEEE 1394 port.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire or i.Link) device, such as a digital camcorder, into the 4-pin IEEE 1394 port.

Item Component Icon Description

20 SmartMedia SM Transfer ﬁ les from a digital device to your Media Center through the removable memory card drive.

21 CompactFlash CF Transfer ﬁ les from a digital device to your Media Center through the removable memory card drive.

SecureDigital Memory Stick

Memory Stick Pro MultiMedia Card

23 Volume + / - button Press to increase and decrease the volume level.

24 Channel + / - button Press to change the channel sequentially to a lower or higher channel number.

25 My TV button Press to open the Media Center My TV feature.

26 DVD Menu button Press to open the Media Center DVD player.

27 My Music button Press to open the Media Center My Music feature.

28 My Pictures button Press to open the Media Center My Pictures feature.

29 My Videos button Press to open the Media Center My Videos feature.

30 Radio button Press to open the Media Center My Radio feature.

31 Stop button Press to stop the currently playing media. For example, stop Live TV, recorded TV, and CD or DVD media.

32 Play button Press to play the selected media. For example, Live TV (that is buffered), recorded TV, and CD or DVD media.

33 Pause button Press to pause the currently playing media. For example, pause Live TV, recorded TV, and CD or DVD media.

34 Replay button

35 Skip button

36 Rewind button

SD MS

MS Pro

MMC

Transfer ﬁ les from a digital device to your Media Center through the removable memory card drive.

Press to replay the currently playing media in 7 second increments. For example review the previous 7 seconds of Live TV, recorded TV, and CD or DVD media.

Press to fast-forward the currently playing media in 7 second increments. For example review the previous 7 seconds of Live TV, recorded TV, and CD or DVD.

Press to rewind the currently playing media. For example, rewind Live TV (that is buffered), recorded TV, and CD or DVD media

37 Forward button

Press to fast-forward the currently playing media. For example, fast-forward Live TV (that is buffered), recorded TV, and CD or DVD media.

Back (Gateway FMC-901 Media Center)

38 40 41 42 43 44 45 4639

47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59

Item Component Icon Description

38 Ethernet jack

Rear left and right

Analog Audio Out jack (line out)

40 Mic-In (microphone jack)

41 S-Video Out port

42 DVI-D Out port Plug a digial DVI-D display device, such as a plasma display, into this port.

43 To Phone jack

44 S-Video In port

45 FM In antenna (external coaxial connector) Plug an external FM antenna into this port.

Plug 10/100 Ethernet network cable into this jack. For more information about networking, see the Networking Your Computer guide. Click Start, All Programs, Gateway Documentation, then click the networking guide.

Plug powered, analog rear speakers or an external ampliﬁ er into this jack. Use a 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cable.

Plug a microphone into this jack to record or transmit voice input.

Plug a video device, such as a monitor or a camcorder, that support S-Video into this port.

Plug the telephone into this port.

Plug an S-Video cable from a video source, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this port.

Item Component Icon Description

46 TV In jack (coaxial)

47 Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

48 IR Control port

49 Digital Audio In (S/PDIF) jack Plug an optical (Toslink) digital audio cable from an audio source into this jack.

50 Digital Audio Out (S/PDIF) jack Plug an optical (Toslink) digital audio cable from this jack into a digital audio device.

Plug a coaxial cable from a video source, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this jack.

Plug the IR control cable into this port. Sends input from the keyboard or remote to a set-top box to change channels.

51 IEEE 1394 port

52 USB ports (2)

Subwoofer/Center Analog Audio Out jack

(line out)

Front left and right

Analog Audio Out jack (line out)

55 AUX (audio input jack)

56 VGA Out (monitor port) Plug an analog VGA monitor into this port.

57 To Wall (modem In jack)

58 Audio In jack (left channel)

59 Audio In jack (right channel)

60 Video In jack (RCA) Plug an RCA cable from a video source, such as a VCR, into this jack.

USB v2.0

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire or i.Link) device, such as a digital camcorder, into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port.

Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices, such as a USB printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse, into these ports.

Plug powered, center/subwoofer speakers or an external audio ampliﬁ er into this jack. Use a 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cable.

Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external audio ampliﬁ er, or headphones into this jack. Use a 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cable.

Plug an external audio input source, such as a stereo or camcorder, into this jack so you can play sound through the Media Center speakers or record sound on your Media Center.

Plug an RJ-11 modem cable into this jack.

Plug an RCA cable from a left channel audio out jack, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this jack.

Plug an RCA cable from a right channel audio out jack, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this jack.

Back (Gateway FMC-901X Media Center)

61 62

68 69

78 80 81

77767574 79

Item Component Icon Description

61 Ethernet jack

62 S-Video Out port Plug a video device, such as a monitor or camcorder, that support S-Video into this port.

63 VGA Out (monitor port) Plug an analog VGA monitor into this port.

64 To Phone jack

Front left and right Analog Audio Out jack

(Green jack)

Mic-In (microphone jack)

(Pink jack)

Plug 10/100 Ethernet network cable into this jack. For more information about networking, see the “Networking Your Computer” guide. Click Start, All Programs, Gateway Documentation, then click the networking guide.

Plug the telephone into this jack.

Plug powered, analog front speakers, or an external audio ampliﬁ er into this jack. Use a 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cable. Also supports headphones.

Plug an external microphone to record or transmit voice input.

Item Component Icon Description

Plug an audio system into this jack. Provides six-channel or compressed AC-3 digital

Digital Out jack (line out)

(Yellow jack)

Digital

Out

output (S/PDIF) for connection to external digital devices and speakers. Also supports center and subwoofer (LFE) analog channels for connection to 5.1 analog speaker systems. Use a 1/8” stereo to 1/8” stereo plug for digital output or use 1/8” stereo to RCA plug for analog output.

Line in (Analog In jack)

(Blue jack)

69 FM In antenna (external coaxial connector) Plug an external FM antenna into this port.

70 TV In jack (coaxial)

71 S-Video In port

72 Video In port (RCA) Plug an RCA cable from a video source, such as a VCR, into this port.

73 Audio In jack (left channel)

74 Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.IR control cable into this port.

75 IR Control port

76 Digital Audio In (S/PDIF) jack Plug an optical (Toslink) digital audio cable from an audio source into this jack.

77 Digital Audio Out (S/PDIF) jack Plug an optical (Toslink) digital audio cable from this jack into a digital audio device.

78 IEEE 1394 port

79 USB ports (2)

USB v2.0

Plug an external audio input source, such as a stereo, into this jack so you can record sound on your Media Center or play sound through the external speakers.

Plug a coaxial cable from a video source, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this jack.

Plug an S-Video cable from a video source, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this port.

Plug an RCA cable from a left channel audio out jack, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this jack.

Plug the IR control cable into this port. Sends input from the keyboard or remote to a set-top box to change channels.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire or i.Link) device, such as a digital camcorder, into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port.

Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a USB printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports.

Item Component Icon Description

80 DVI-D Out jack Plug a digial DVI-D display device, such as plasma display, into this port.

81 To Wall (modem In jack) Plug an RJ-11 modem cable into this jack.

Rear left and right Analog Audio Out jack

(Black port)

Subwoofer/Center Analog Audio Out jack

(Orange port)

84 IEEE 1394 port

85 Audio In jack (right channel)

Plug powered, analog rear speakers or an external ampliﬁ er into this jack. Use a 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cable.

Plug powered, center/subwoofer speakers or an external audio ampliﬁ er into this jack. Use a 1/8” stereo to RCA plug Y-cable.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire or i.Link) device, such as a digital camcorder, into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port.

Plug an RCA cable from a right channel audio out jack, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, into this jack.

Learning about the remote

let you replay recorded (buffered) TV and radio programs and play the CD

Media Center Start button

starts the Media Center software.

Audio/Video (A/V)

control buttons

control volume levels,

volume mute, channel

selections, and the

DVD menu.

Transport buttons

and DVD player.

Navigation buttons

let you move the pointer around the Guide and menus, make selections, navigate back to the previous screen, change the screen display aspect ratio, and get more information. Press the OK button to make a selection.

Numeric keypad/ Data entry buttons

let you enter numbers and characters from the remote.

Power control button

puts the Family Media Center in Standby mode (reduced power).

Shortcut buttons

give you direct access to Windows XP Media Center features.

Tip:

The remote has a range of 23 feet (7.5 meters) and performs best with a maximum angle of 22.5 degrees from the center of the IR receiver in all directions. Make sure that there is a clear line of sight between the remote and the IR receiver.

Using the remote

Use the Media Center remote to watch TV, videos, and DVDs, to listen to music, and to view pictures.

Use the remote navigation buttons to highlight a Windows XP Media Center menu option, then press the OK button to select the menu option.

Press one of the menu shortcut buttons on the remote for direct access to a Windows XP Media Center menu.

- OR -

Learning about the wireless mouse

Status LED indicator

Scroll wheel and button

use to move vertically through a

document or program.

Left/Right select buttons

use to select objects and

menus on the screen.

indicates mouse status. See “Media Center FAQs” on page 88.

Activation trigger

lets you make mouse selections while using the mouse in the air.

Battery pack

install rechargeable battery pack

Channel button

use to change the radio frequency (RF) channel the mouse uses. For more information, see “Changing the wireless keyboard or mouse channels” on page 34.

Teach button

use to synchronize the mouse with the radio frequency (RF) receiver. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

Battery release button

press to open the battery pack compartment.

Activation trigger

lets you make mouse selections while using the mouse in the air.

To use the wireless mouse in the air

Using the wireless mouse

The wireless mouse gives you flexibility to control your Family Media Center. The mouse provides precise tracking on most surfaces. You can also use the mouse in the air to point and select on the screen.

Tips:

For optimal mouse performance, avoid using the mouse on highly reflective glass or mirrored surfaces.

For optimal battery life, avoid using the mouse on dark-colored surfaces.

To use the wireless mouse on a flat surface

Before using the wireless mouse, set up and

synchronize the mouse with the radio frequency (RF) receiver on your Family Media Center. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

Remove the mouse from the charging cradle and

place it on a flat surface. The LED light on the Family Media Center flickers rapidly when the mouse communicates with the RF receiver.

Before using the wireless mouse, set up and

synchronize the mouse with the radio frequency (RF) receiver on your Family Media Center. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

Hold the mouse in a comfortable, relaxed position:

• Put your index finger on the activation trigger

and your thumb at the base of the scroll wheel.

• Press and hold the activation trigger with your

index finger. While holding the trigger, flex your wrist up, down, and sideways (in a manner similar to using a flashlight). The mouse pointer tracks the motions of your hand.

Tips:

Double-click the activation trigger to keep the pointer continuously active. To stop the pointer movement, click the activation trigger again.

Move the pointer over a target and release the activation trigger before clicking the left or right mouse buttons. This parks the pointer and lets you click more accurately.

• Use you thumb to press the left or right mouse

button or operate the scroll wheel.

Use the mouse like a standard desktop mouse.

Fine-tuning the wireless

Changing the wireless

mouse pointer control

While getting familiar with your wireless mouse and getting a feel for the “in air” method of pointer control, you may want to adjust the mouse settings. You can adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, left-hand or right-hand configuration, and other mouse settings. We recommend you adjust:

Pointer Speed to Average. Some new users

•

prefer this setting to be slightly slower than average. Advanced users tend to increase the speed so that less wrist movement gives them more screen coverage with the pointer.

Acceleration to Low or Off.

•

To change the mouse settings

In Windows XP, click Start, then click Control

Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other Hardware.

Click/Double-click the Mouse icon. The Mouse

Properties dialog box opens.

Click the Advanced Features tab, then click

Settings to change your mouse settings.

keyboard or mouse channels

When two wireless devices, such as the keyboard and mouse, are used in the same area, each device should be set to operate on a different channel. For best reception, space the channels apart by one or more channels. For example, set the channels to channel 2 and 4 rather than channel 2 and 3.

Tips:

If the Teach/Learn sequence has already been performed, you do not need to re-synchronize the keyboard and mouse after a channel change.

To change the wireless keyboard or mouse channel

Press and hold the Channel button on the

bottom of the wireless keyboard or mouse for two seconds.

Release the Channel button. The keyboard or

mouse changes to the next channel and the keyboard or mouse green LED (and the charging cradle’s red LED) flashes. The number of flashes indicates the new channel the keyboard or mouse is using.

To modify mouse settings, click the + in front of a

setting, then modify the setting.

Determining the wireless

Turning the wireless keyboard

keyboard or mouse channels

The wireless keyboard and mouse have eight channels available to communicate on. Use the following instructions to determine the channel a device is currently using.

To determine the wireless keyboard or mouse channel

Press and quickly release the Channel button on

the bottom of the wireless keyboard or mouse.

Count the number of times the keyboard’s or

mouse’s green LED (and the charging cradle’s red LED) flashes. The number of flashes indicates the channel the keyboard or mouse is using.

Tips:

If the keyboard’s or mouse’s channel is changed when the Media Center PC power is off, the devices will become unsynchronized. To re-synchronize the devices, click and quickly release the Channel button as described in the instructions above to confirm the keyboard’s or mouse’s channel. The keyboard or mouse broadcasts a message across all eight channels that tells the Family Media Center’s receiver which channel the device is currently operating on. The receiver then automatically restores synchronization.

or mouse power on and off

Turn the wireless keyboard and mouse off to prevent battery drain when traveling or when you do not plan to use your Family Media Center for several days.

Warning:

Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane.

To turn the wireless keyboard or mouse off

Simultaneously press and release the Channel

•

and Teach buttons on the bottom of the wireless keyboard or mouse. The keyboard or mouse turns off and will not respond to button clicks. The LED indicator flashes three times to confirm the device is turned off.

To turn the wireless keyboard or mouse on

Simultaneously press for three seconds, then

•

release the Channel and Teach buttons on the bottom of the wireless keyboard or mouse for. The keyboard or mouse turns on and will respond to button clicks. The LED indicator flashes for one second to confirm the device is turned on.

Learning about the wireless keyboard

Use the keyboard to navigate and select the Windows XP Media Center menus and options and perform other activities such as typing an e-mail.

For information about changing the wireless keyboard channels, see “Changing the wireless keyboard or

23 4 5

mouse channels” on page 34. For information about determining the wireless keyboard channel, see “Determining the wireless keyboard or mouse channels” on page 35. For information about turning the wireless keyboard on or off, see “Turning the wireless keyboard or mouse power on or off” on page 35.

Item Component Icon Description

1 Status LED indicator Status Indicates keyboard status. See “Media Center FAQs” on page 88.

2 Channel button

3 Teach button

Use to change the radio frequency (RF) channel the keyboard uses. For more information, see “Changing the wireless keyboard or mouse channels” on page 34.

Use to synchronize the keyboard with the radio frequency (RF) receiver. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

4 Transport buttons

5 Audio/Video (A/V) control buttons

6 Internet and e-mail buttons

7 Windows keys

8 Application key Lets you access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

9 Directional (navigation) keys

Lets you replay buffered TV programs and play the CD and DVD player.

Controls volume levels and volume mute.

Starts your Internet browser and e-mail program. Lets you navigate the Internet browser and search for information.

Gives you direct access to the Windows Start menu.

Lets you move the pointer around the Guide and menus.

Starting the Windows XP Media Center

You can take full control of the Family Media Center from your wireless keyboard, remote, and mouse. Use the device that is comfortable for you.

To start Windows XP Media Center from the Start menu

Click Start, then click Media Center.

•

To start Windows XP Media Center with the remote

Press the Start button on the remote.

•

Using the Windows XP Media Center

You can switch to the Microsoft Windows desktop at any time. Windows XP Media Center will continue to run in the background.

To switch between the Windows XP Media Center and the desktop

Click the minimize button to view

•

the desktop.

Click the maximize button to

•

expand the active window to fit the entire screen.

Click the Media Center taskbar button or press

•

the Start button on the keyboard or remote to return to the Media Center.

The Windows XP Media Center menu bar and transport controls toolbar appear when you move the mouse. Use the keyboard, remote, or mouse to make selections.

Menu bar

Transport controls

UsingMyTV

• Watch Live TV

• View the Guide and select TV programs

• Schedule, record, and sort TV program recordings

• Search for programs by categories, title, or keyword

• Change My TV settings

ChapterThree

Watching TV

You can control your TV viewing experience with My TV. Use My TV to watch TV, record TV, watch buffered (time-shifted) TV, watch recorded programs, search for programs, change TV settings, and more.

While watching My TV or using the Guide, you can press the More Info button on the remote to view more information about the selected program.

To watch a TV program

On the remote, press the My TV button. The last

viewed TV channel is displayed.

To view a TV program in full-screen mode

With My TV on, navigate to highlight Live TV.

Press the OK button to maximize the TV viewing

window to full-screen mode.

To exit the full-screen mode

With My TV in full-screen mode, press the

•

remote’s Back navigation button. The previous Windows XP Media Center screen is displayed.

On the remote, press the CH/PG + or CH/PG –

button to change channels, enter a channel on the remote’s numeric keypad, select channels from the Guide, or search for a TV program by category, title, or keyword.

Help:

If you prefer, you can use the Family Media Center keyboard instead of the remote to control My TV. The arrow keys on your keyboard work as the navigation buttons. For other commands, use the keyboard shortcuts described in the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open the Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Using the remote to play TV recordings

My TV automatically records TV programs to a program buffer as you watch TV. When you stop or pause live TV programs, My TV continues recording (buffering) the program for up to 30 minutes so you can watch the program where you previously left off. You can also

Remote button

Pause Pause to freeze the live TV image. While paused, My TV continues to record the program for

Stop Stop to halt live TV. My TV continues to record the program for up to 30 minutes. If you stop

Play Play to resume watching TV where you left off when you pressed the Pause or Stop button.

Fwd Fwd (Fast forward) to advance through a live TV or recorded program that has been stopped

Rewind Rew (rewind) to go back in a program that has been stopped or paused and recorded to the

Press:

up to 30 minutes. If you paused live TV for more than 30 minutes, you cannot play the show from the exact point where you paused it.

live TV for more than 30 minutes, you cannot play the broadcast from the exact point where you stopped it.

Press the Stop button to stop viewing live or recorded TV.

or paused and recorded to the program buffer. Press the Fwd button a second or third time to increase the fast forward speed.

program buffer. Press the Rew button a second or third time to increase the rewind speed.

press the Replay button, while watching a program, to rewind and replay a segment of the program. Use the remote transport buttons or the transport controls toolbar (activated by moving the mouse), to control Live TV and recorded TV playback.

Skip Skip once to advance 29 seconds through a recorded program that has been stopped or

paused and recorded to the program buffer. You can press the Skip button repeatedly, but only until you reach the end of the program buffer.

Replay Replay once to go back 7 seconds in a live TV or recorded program that has been stopped or

paused and recorded to the program buffer. You can press the Replay button repeatedly, but only until you reach the beginning of the program buffer.

Tip:

To change the display’s aspect ratio with the remote, press the More Info button, then press Zoom.

Help:

For more information about watching buffered TV programs, see topics in About My TV section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open the Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button

To rewind and replay a buffered TV program

On the remote, press the Rew button until you

•

locate the point in the TV program that you want to replay, then press the Play button. The buffered program plays and live TV continues to record to the buffer.

Tip:

My TV buffers 30 minutes of TV program segments. You can replay buffered TV programs for up to 30 previous minutes of the program’s broadcast. If you want to replay longer TV programs or save them to watch later, use the My TV record features. For more information, see “Recording TV programs” on page 47.

Tip:

When you change channels, the program buffer deletes the buffer content from the current channel and begins recording the new channel to the program buffer.

To pause or stop and replay a buffered TV program

On the remote, press the Pause or Stop

button at the point in the TV program that you want to pause or stop the program. Live TV continues to record to the buffer for up to 30 minutes.

Press the Play button when you want to return to

watching the program. The program starts playing from the point where you paused it.

You can continue watching the buffered program or fast forward, rewind, skip, or replay segments that were buffered. If you want to return to Live TV and skip past the buffered broadcast segments, press the Live TV button.

Using the Guide

The Guide displays channel and TV program information, TV program titles, descriptions, categories, ratings, and program times. You can view and scroll through the list of current and future TV shows in the Guide. When you select a program title, information about the program displays below the program listings.

Use the Guide to select programs to watch, set up program recordings, and search for TV programs.

To start the Guide

On the remote, press the Guide button. The Guide

•

opens.

To select a program listed in the Guide

With the Guide open, press the up , down ,

left , or right remote navigation buttons to scroll through the TV listings line-by-line.

- OR -

Press the CH/PG + or CH/PG – buttons on the remote to scroll through the TV listing page-by-page.

Help:

For information about watching Pay-Per-View programs on your Family Media Center, see topics in About the Guide section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Highlight the program you want to watch and

press the OK button. One of the following will occur:

• If the program is currently broadcasting, the window will maximize and display the program.

• If the program is scheduled to broadcast at a later time, a detailed program information page opens. You can select a recording option.

Manually updating the Guide

When you use the Windows XP Media Center setup wizard, you can set up the Guide to automatically download program information from your cable or satellite service provider. However, if your Internet Service Provider does not support automatic Guide updates or if the Guide needs to be updated for another reason, you may need to update the Guide manually to refresh the program listings.

To manually update the Guide

Before starting the Windows XP Media Center,

make sure that you connect to the Internet.

Tip:

The Windows XP Media Center requires Internet access to update the Guide. Make sure that you connect to your Internet connection before continuing the manual Program Guide update instructions. Contact your Internet Service Provider for more information.

On the remote, press the My TV button. The

Windows XP Media Center My TV starts.

Navigate to Settings, then press the OK button.

The Settings menu opens.

Help:

For more information about using and configuring the Guide, see topics in About the Guide section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Navigate to Guide, then press the OK button.

Navigate to Get Guide data, then press the OK

button. A message asks if you want to update the Guide information now.

Navigate to Yes, then press the OK button. The

Windows XP Media Center downloads Guide updates.

Recording TV programs

Your Family Media Center lets you record the program you are watching, record a program that is scheduled to broadcast later, or record a recurring program series.

To record the program you are watching

Use the CH/PG + or CH/PG – buttons, numeric

keypad, or the Guide to choose programs that you want to record.

On the remote, press the Record button. The

program recording starts.

Tip:

To record programs to the hard drive, your Family Media Center must be turned on, in standby mode, or hibernate mode. For more information about using standby and hibernate, Click Start, Help and Support, then search for the keywords standby or hibernate.

To set up a recording from the Guide

On the remote, press the Guide button. The Guide

opens.

Highlight the TV program you want to record,

then press the Record button. The record icon appears next to the program to indicate the recording has been scheduled.

To end the program recording, press the Stop

button or let the recording stop automatically when the current program is over.

Tip:

When recording a program, you can only watch the program that is recording. If you change channels during a program recording, the recording stops.

The program automatically records when the scheduled program begins broadcasting and stops recording when the program broadcast ends.

Tip:

The Guide is available to multiple user accounts on the Windows XP Media Center. However, the program recording schedules are shared among all accounts. A program recording conflict message appears if a user tries to schedule a recording for a time that has already been scheduled.

Tip:

When you schedule to record a program series, the Windows XP Media Center records each series episode from any channel that broadcasts the program series. Windows XP Media Center will not record duplicate programs from the series and it will look for alternative broadcasts times if a recording time conflict occurs.

To set up a recording for a program series

On the remote, press the Guide button. The Guide

opens.

Highlight the program you want to record, then

press the Record button two times to record a program series. The record series icon appears next to the program to indicate that the recording has been scheduled for all programs in this series.

Help:

For more information about recording programs manually, recording programs from search, and other recording methods, see topics in Record TV located under the My TV section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button

To change program recording settings

On the remote, press the Guide button. The Guide

opens.

Highlight the program that you have scheduled to

record, then press the OK button. The Program Info window opens.

The program automatically records each time the scheduled series broadcasts from any channel and stops recording when the program broadcast ends.

Highlight a menu option, press the OK button, then

change the record settings to your preferences.

Help:

For more information about managing Recorded TV, see topics in Record TV located under the Manage Recorded TV section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Using Recorded TV

Use Recorded TV to view and manage your program recordings. After you have recorded TV programs, go to Recorded TV to sort programs by date, name, and category. You can also schedule new program recordings and watch and manage scheduled program recordings.

In Recorded TV you can:

• Select Sort by date, Sort by name, or Sort by category to set your program list viewing preference.

To watch and manage Recorded TV

On the remote, press the My TV button. The

Windows XP Media Center starts.

Navigate to Recorded TV, then press the OK

button. The Recorded TV menu opens. A list of previously recorded and currently recording programs is displayed.

Tip:

On the remote, you can also press the Recorded TV button for a shortcut to access Recorded TV.

To play, delete, or keep a recorded program until a

specified date, navigate to a recorded program, then press the OK button. Select the program option.

• Select Add recording and schedule a new program recording with Guide or Search, with Channel and time, or by Keyword.

• Select Scheduled to view and manage future program recording options.

Changing My TV Settings

Use My TV Settings to customize the Windows XP Media Center My TV. You can adjust settings for the TV recorder, Guide, TV signal, display settings, audio, and My TV.

To use the Settings menu

On the remote, press the My TV button. The

Windows XP Media Center starts.

Navigate to Settings, then press the OK button.

The Settings menu opens.

Help:

For more information about the My TV Settings options, see topics in Change settings for My TV located under the My TV section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

In Settings you can:

• Select Recorder to view the TV program recording history log, change drive storage settings (such as how much disk space to allocate for program recordings), and change the TV program recording quality setting. Also, you can see how much recording time has been used, how much is available for recording new programs, what the recording default settings are, and more.

• Select Guide to edit the Guide listings, add missing channels to the Guide, reset the Guide lineup, and update the Guide information.

• Select Set up TV signal to choose the video service, such as cable, satellite, or antenna, that is connected to your Family Media Center.

• Select Adjust display settings to adjust the video settings for the display.

• Select Audio to set audio, captioning, and captioning display options.

• Select My TV to choose whether to automatically start playing the TV after starting My TV or whether to start playing the TV only when you select Live TV.

Burning recorded TV programs to DVD

After you have recorded a TV program, you may want to save the program to a DVD to watch on another computer that has a DVD player or your home DVD player. Use Sonic PrimeTime to copy the recorded program to a DVD (a recordable DVD drive is optional for the Gateway FMC-901 Media Center).

Tip:

Record TV programs to DVD-R type DVDs.

To use Sonic PrimeTime

Press the Start button on the remote. The Windows XP Media Center menu is displayed.

Highlight Create DVD, then press the OK

button. The Media Center minimizes and Sonic PrimeTime opens.

Tip:

If your Gateway 901 Series Media Center does not include a recordable DVD drive but includes a recordable CD drive, you can change the recording device option to Video CD (VCD) and record TV programs to a CD. The program will record in a lower quality video format, but will compress to fit on a CD. To change the recording device, click Settings, General, Recording Devices, then select the type of recording device you want to record programs to.

Use Sort by date, Sort by name, or Sort by

category to locate the recorded TV program you want to record to DVD.

Use the remote to highlight the TV program or

programs that you want to record, then press the OK button.

As you select TV programs, check marks appear beside the programs and the DVD icon shows the recording space available on the DVD.

After you have selected the TV programs you want

to record, highlight Burn DVD, then press the OK button. A message tells you that running additional programs while burning a DVD may cause the recording to fail.

If you have a number of programs running, close

the programs, then click OK. The TV programs burn to the DVD.

Tip:

DVD-Rs have a 4.7 GB maximum capacity. If the TV program you want to record is long enough to require more than 4.7 GB of recording space, you can reduce the Windows XP Media Center program recording quality setting before recording the program. The record quality setting options are Fair, Good, Better, or Best:

Recording quality

Best 3.0

Better 2.5

Good 2.0

Fair 1.0

Lowering the recording quality reduces the TV program recording space requirement, which may reduce the TV program file size enough for the program to fit on a recordable DVD (depending on the TV program length).

For more information about setting the recorded image quality option, see the topics in Change settings for My TV located under the My TV section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button

Approximate GB/hour

UsingMy Music

• Browse music selections

ChapterFour

• Search for music by titles and keywords

• Play music

• Add songs and audio files to the Media Library

• View music CD information such as artist name, song title, album cover art, and more

Getting started with My Music

My Music lets you enjoy a complete music experience from the Windows XP Media Center. You can listen to CDs, view artist information, create your own music playlists, categorize and listen to music by genres, search for music selections, and more.

The Windows XP Media Center lets you play these digital audio file types:

File type (format)

CD audio

Windows Media audio files

Windows audio files

MP3

File extension

.cda

.asx, .wm, .wma, .wmp, .wmx

.wav

.mp3 and .m3u

Tip:

Additional audio formats may be supported if you install new codecs (compressor/decompressor software used to compress and decompress digital media files) to play the audio file.

Adding music files to the Media Library

The Windows XP Media Center My Music works with the Windows Media Player. Use the Windows Media Player to add, delete, categorize, and organize music. Then use My Music to view, sort, play, and search for music.

To add music files on your Family Media Center to the Media Player’s Media Library

With the mouse, click Start, then click Windows

Media Player. Windows Media Player opens.

On the left side of the Media Player, click Media

Library. The first time you click Media Library, a message tells you that the Media Player needs to search your Family Media Center for music files.

If this is the first time you’ve added music files to

the Media Library, click Yes. The Media Player searches for all music files on your Family Media Center and adds them to the Media Library.

- OR -

If you want to add new music files to the Media Library, click the show menu bar arrow to

display the menu bar, click Tools, then click

Search for Media Files. The Add To Media Library By Searching Computer dialog box opens.

Help:

You can add music CD files to the Media Library in Media Center’s My Music, however you cannot delete, move, rename, and organize music files with My Music features. For a variety of music file management capabilities, use the Media Player’s My Library features.

For more information about managing music files, see topics in Add songs and audio files to the Media Library located under the My Music section of the Media Center Help. To open Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button

Adding music CDs to the Media Library

You can add and organize your personal CD collection with the Media Player’s Media Library, then use the Windows XP Media Center as your personal jukebox to play and enjoy your music. First use Media Player to copy, add, delete, move, create personal playlists, rename files on the hard drive, and more.

After you’ve customized your music files using the Media Library, then use the Windows XP Media Center to play music and view song, track, and artist information.

Select search options, then click Search. The Media Player searches for music files on your Family Media Center and adds them to the Media Library.

To add music files from a CD to the Media Player’s Media Library

With the mouse, click Start, then click Windows

Media Player. Windows Media Player opens.

Insert the CD you want to add to the Media

Library.

On the left side of the Media Player, click Copy

from CD, then click Copy Music.

The Copy Options (1 of 2) dialog box opens.

Click Add copy protection to your music or Do

not add copy protections to your music, then click to select the check box next to the copyright statement. You must agree to the copyright statement and select the check box next to the copyright statement before you can continue copying the CD to your Family Media Center.

If you agree to the copyright statement, click Next.

The Copy Options (2 of 2) dialog box opens.

- OR -

If you do not agree to the copyright statement, click X to close the dialog box and stop copying the CD to your Family Media Center.

Click Change my current format settings or

Keep my current format settings, then click Finish. The CD copies to the hard drive.

Tip:

When adding music files to the Media Library and playing files from your Family Media Center, make sure that you’re connected to the Internet to display CD information such as artist information, CD artwork, song titles, and more.

Playing My Music

You can play music CDs with Windows XP Media Center’s My Music. After you’ve added your CD collection to the Media Player’s Media Library, you’ll have a variety of music to listen to directly from your Family Media Center. You can play individual songs, CDs (albums), shuffle play, and customize your music files for special occasions with a personalized music playlist. After you’ve tailored music files with the Media Library, sit back and enjoy listening to your favorite music.

To listen to a CD

Insert the CD you want to listen to.

If the Windows XP Media Center TV or Guide is

open, Media Center asks if you want to play the CD. Highlight Yes, then click OK.

- OR -

If the Windows XP Media Center is not open, the default music player may start playing the CD. If you want the Media Center to be your default CD player, see “To set Windows XP Media Center as the default CD player” on page 60.

Navigate to highlight the CD selection, highlight

Play or Shuffle, then press the OK button.

The Now Playing menu opens and the CD plays.

- OR -

Press the My Music button. The My Music menu opens.

You can also:

• Select View Song to view the CD cover artwork and the currently playing song’s title.

• Select View Tracks to view a list of all the tracks on the CD.

• Select Shuffle to randomly arrange the music play selections.

• Select Repeat to repeat play the CD.

• Select Copy CD to copy the CD to the hard drive and add the music files to the Media Library for future listening (also

see “Adding music CDs to the Media Library” on page 55). You can also set audio, captioning, and captioning display options.

• Select Buy Music to search for and purchase CDs.

• Select Visualize to display interesting visual patterns on-screen while your music plays.

To listen to the Media Library music from the Windows XP Media Center

On the remote, press the My Music button. My

Music opens.

You can:

• Select Albums to play music, from your Media Library.

• Select Artists to view and play music from a list of all artists in your Media Library.

• Select Playlists to view and play music from your custom playlists or from auto-created playlists.

• Select Songs to view and play music from an alphabetized list of music files.

• Select Genres to view and play music from music categorized by genre, such as classical, jazz, new age, and rock.

• Select Search to search for music by a song title.

• Select Settings to change the visualizations options.

After you’ve selected your music, click OK. The

selections play.

Help:

For more information about methods to browse and select music files, see topics in Browse My Music and Play Music located under the My Music section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

To set Windows XP Media Center as the default CD player

With the mouse, click Start, then click My

Computer. The My Computer window opens.

Right click the Audio CD (D:) drive, then click

Properties. The Audio CD (D:) Properties dialog box opens.

Click the AutoPlay tab. The AutoPlay tab is

displayed.

Click Music CD in the Select a content type list.

Click the Select an action to perform option,

Play Audio CD using Media Center under Actions, then click OK.

• Manage and add pictures to

your photo library

• Browse and search for pictures

• View and touch up pictures

• Print and share pictures

• Watch pictures as slide shows

• View picture details such as file name, file date, picture pixel size, where the picture is stored, and more

UsingMy Pictures

ChapterFive

Getting started with My Pictures

The Windows XP Media Center’s My Pictures makes it easy and fun to look at your digital photos. My Pictures lets you view your pictures individually or as a slide show. You can organize and sort pictures by name or date. Use the keyboard, mouse, or remote to browse your pictures.

While browsing pictures or watching a slide show, you can press the More Info button to view more information about a picture, make adjustments to a picture, and print a picture. The Windows XP Media Center lets you view these digital image file types:

File type (format) File extension

Joint Photographic Experts Group

Tagged Image File Format

Graphics Interchange Format

Bitmap

Windows MetaFile

Portable Network Graphics

.jpg, .jpeg

.tif

.gif (animated .gif ﬁ les are not

supported)

.bmp

.wmf

.png

Organizing picture files

To view pictures and play slide shows in the Windows XP Media Center’s My Pictures, first copy and organize the picture files into the My Pictures or Shared Pictures

To organize picture files

With the mouse, click Start, then click My

Pictures. The My Pictures window opens.

folders. Windows XP Media Center only displays picture files placed in the My Pictures or Shared Pictures folders.

Make new folders in the My Pictures folder and

copy files to the folders or copy folders from other folders to the My Pictures folder.

You can also put pictures in the Shared Pictures folder to share pictures with other users.

Help:

For more information about managing picture files, see topics in Work with picture files located under the My Pictures section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Viewing My Pictures

After you’ve organized your picture files in the My Pictures or Shared Pictures folder, then you can view pictures in the Windows XP Media Center’s My Pictures.

To view pictures from the Windows XP Media Center

On the remote, press the My Pictures button. The

My Pictures menu opens and the picture folders display.

The picture folders are displayed just as you organized them in the My Pictures or Shared Pictures folders.

Navigate to a picture folder that you want to view,

then press the OK button. The picture folder opens.

You can view individual pictures by highlighting a picture and pressing the OK button.

You can also choose from the menu options:

• Select Play slide show to view the pictures in a slide show. The slide show automatically transitions between pictures. You can also press the left and right remote navigation buttons to view the pictures manually at your own pace.

• Select Sort by name to sort the pictures by the file names.

• Select Sort by date to sort the pictures by the file dates.

• Select My Pictures to view all the picture folders.

• Select Shared Pictures to view pictures that are shared from other users.

• Select Other media to view pictures that are on a removable memory card.

Using More Info

While viewing an individual picture or watching a slide show, you can press the More Info button to view picture details.

To view More Info about a picture

On the remote, while viewing pictures, press the

More Info button. The Picture Details menu opens and the picture is displayed.

• Select Settings to change the slide show preferences, such as the order to display pictures in, whether to show pictures in subfolders, caption options, and transition effects between pictures.

Choose from the menu options:

manually at your own pace.

Playing audio during a slide show

In addition to watching slide shows, you can also play music along with your slide show.

• Select Rotate to rotate the picture counter-clockwise in 90-degree increments.

• Select Rotate to rotate the picture clockwise in 90-degree increments.

• Select Print to print a full-page picture print.

• Select Touch up to remove red

eye and change the picture contrast.

• Select Next to view the next picture’s details.

• Select Previous to view the previous picture’s details.

To view a slide show with music

Use My Music to select music from your Media

Library, play a CD, or select a music playlist. For more information, see “Playing My Music” on

page 57.

On the remote, press the My Pictures button. The

My Pictures menu opens and the picture folders display.

Select the picture folder you want to watch as a

slide show, highlight Play slide show, then press the OK button. The slide show starts.

Help:

For more information about slide show options and settings, see topics in Play a slide show located under the My Pictures section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

• Manage and add videos to your video library

• Browse and search for videos

• View videos

• Share videos

• View video details such as file name, file date, picture pixel size, where the picture is stored, and more

UsingMy Videos

ChapterSix

Getting started with My Videos

The Windows XP Media Center’s My Videos makes it easy to enjoy your digital videos. My Videos lets you watch and share your videos. You can organize and sort videos by name or date. Use the keyboard, mouse, or remote to browse your videos.

The Windows XP Media Center lets you watch these digital video file types:

File type (format) File extension

Windows Media file .wm, .asf

Windows Media A/V

Video file

Movie file .mpeg, .mpg, .mpe, .m1v,

Windows MetaFile

.wmv

.avi

.mp2, .mpv2

.wmf

While browsing or viewing videos, you can press the More Info button to view more information about video.

Tip:

Additional video formats may be supported if you install new codecs (compressor/decompressor software used to compress and decompress digital media files) to play the video file.

Organizing video files

To view videos in the Windows XP Media Center’s My Videos, first copy and organize the video files into the My Videos or Shared Video folders. The Windows XP Media

To organize video files

With the mouse, click Start, My Documents, then

click My Videos. The My Videos window opens.

Center only displays video files placed in the My Videos or Shared Video folders.

Make new folders in the My Videos folder and

copy files to the folders or copy folders from other folders to the My Videos folder.

You can also put videos in the Shared Video folder to share videos with other users

Help:

For more information about managing video files, see topics in Manage video files located under the My Videos section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Viewing My Videos

After you’ve organized your video files in the My Videos or Shared Videos folder, you can view videos in the Windows XP Media Center’s My Videos. The video clips

To view videos from the Windows XP Media Center

On the remote, press the My Videos button. The

My Videos menu opens and the videos and video folders display.

are displayed just as you organized them in the My Pictures folder.

You can view videos by highlighting a video and pressing the OK button.

You can also choose from the menu options:

• Select Sort by name to sort the videos by the file names.

• Select Sort by date to sort the videos by the file dates.

• Select My Videos to view all the videos.

• Select Shared Video

to view videos that are shared from other users.

• Select Other media to view videos that are on a removable memory card.

Using More Info

While viewing videos, you can press the More Info button to view information about the video (if available) and change the video display’s aspect ratio.

To use More Info for videos

On the remote, while viewing videos, press the

More Info button. More information is displayed along the bottom of the screen.

Press the OK (Zoom) button to toggle through the

various aspect ratio screen display options.

Help:

For more information about using My Videos, see topics in My Videos section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open

Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

UsingPlay DVD

• Play DVDs

• Set language, subtitles, and audio defaults

ChapterSeven

Playing a DVD

You can watch a DVD with the Windows XP Media Center. If the Windows XP Media Center is running when you insert a DVD into the DVD drive, a message asks if you want to play the DVD. If you select Yes or do not make a selection, the DVD plays automatically. If you select No, then you can play the DVD in Windows XP Media Center at any time by selecting DVD Menu or

Play DVD on the Media Center Start menu.

To watch a DVD on the Windows XP Media Center

Insert the DVD you want to watch.

If the Windows XP Media Center is already

running, a message asks if you want to play the DVD. On the remote, highlight Yes, then press the OK button. The DVD plays.

- OR -

If you are not using Windows XP Media Center when you insert a DVD, a What do you want to

do? dialog box opens. Click Play DVD Video using Media Center. If you want the Windows

XP Media Center to always play DVDs using the Media Center, click to select the Always do the selected action check box. The DVD plays.

- OR -

If a DVD player installation program opens (for player software that was included with the DVD), cancel the installation, then press the Start button on the keyboard or remote. The Windows XP Media Center starts.

To select DVD menu options

Press the DVD menu button. The DVD menu

opens.

- OR -

Press the Stop button. The Stopped DVD menu opens.

On the remote, highlight the menu option you

want to select, such as language, subtitles, and others, then press the OK button.

Tip:

DVD menu options vary and depend on the options provided by the DVD publisher.

UsingRadio

• Play FM and Internet radio

• Preset favorite radio stations

• Rewind, pause, stop, skip forward, and play radio recordings

ChapterEight

Playing the Radio

You can enjoy the Family Media Center’s FM radio and control playback with the remote. When you play the radio, the Window XP Media Center records (buffers) up to 30 minutes of the radio program much like My TV does. This lets you go back and review part of the radio broadcast you heard earlier or listen to a broadcast segment that you missed while away from the radio.

Tip:

The Media Center Radio buffers up to 30 minutes of a radio program. However, it does not let you schedule a radio recording or manually record radio programs.

While listening to FM radio you can pause, play, stop, skip forward, or skip back in the audio stream. You can also change to a different station by tuning to a specific frequency, seeking the next available station, or selecting a radio preset.

Tip:

The Media Center FM radio shares the single tuner card with My TV. You cannot watch or record TV and listen to FM radio at the

same time. When Windows XP Media Center is scheduled to start a TV program recording, a warning appears that says FM radio stops when the TV recording starts. If you do not select Cancel recording, Windows XP Media Center automatically stops the radio and begins recording TV.

To auto-tune the FM radio with Seek

On the remote, press the Radio button. The Radio

window opens.

With the remote, highlight Seek + or Seek –, then

press the OK button. The radio auto-scans for radio stations.

When a station signal tunes in, the auto-scan stops on the station.

You can:

• Listen to the radio station.

• Highlight the Save button, then press the OK button to save this station on the next available preset radio memory slot.

• Highlight Seek + or Seek – to continue auto-scanning for stations.

To manually-tune the FM radio with Tune

To play FM radio

On the remote, press the Radio button. The Radio

window opens.

With the remote, highlight Tune + or Tune –, then

press the OK button repeatedly to manually scan for radio stations. When you tune a station, you can:

• Listen to the radio station.

• Highlight Save, then press the OK button to save the station on the next available preset radio memory slot.

• Highlight Tune + or Tune – to continue manually scanning for stations.

Tip:

If you know the radio station’s frequency, you can highlight the radio station frequency number box and type the station number you want to tune in.

On the remote, tune to an FM station or select a

•

preset station, highlight Start Radio, then press the OK button. (you can also press the remote Play button). The radio starts playing and recording (buffering) up to 30 minutes of the radio program.

To listen to Internet radio

On the remote, press the Radio button. The Radio

window opens.

Navigate to Internet, then press the OK button.

Navigate to highlight one of the Internet radio Web

links from the list.

Tip:

The Internet button appears in the Windows XP Media Center Radio only if one or more Internet radio Web links have been installed. Go to Online Spotlight to check for Internet radio Web links that you can download and use in Windows XP Media Center (press the

Start button on the remote, highlight Online Spotlight, then press the OK button).

Using the remote to play Radio recordings

When you play the radio, the Windows XP Media Center automatically records radio programs to a program buffer as you listen. When you stop or pause radio programs, the radio continues recording (buffering) the program for up to 30 minutes so you can listen to the broadcast

Remote button

Pause Pause to pause the radio program. While paused, the radio continues to record the radio

Stop Stop to stop the radio program. Windows XP Media Center continues to record the radio

Play Play to resume listening to the radio where you left off when you pressed the Pause or Stop

Fwd Fwd (Fast forward) to advance through a live or recorded radio program that has been

Rewind Rew (rewind) to go back in a radio program that has been stopped or paused and recorded to

Press:

program for up to 30 minutes. If you pause the program for more than 30 minutes, you cannot play the radio from the exact point where you paused it .

program for up to 30 minutes. If you stop the program for more than 30 minutes, you cannot play the radio from the exact point where you stopped it.

button. Press the Stop button to stop listening to a live or recorded radio broadcast.

stopped or paused and recorded to the program buffer. Press the Fwd button a second or third time to increase the fast forward speed.

the program buffer. Press the Rew button a second or third time to increase the rewind speed.

where you previously left off. You can also press the Replay button, while listening to a program, to rewind and replay a segment of the radio program. Use the remote transport buttons or the transport controls toolbar to control radio playback.

Skip Skip once to advance 29 seconds through a recorded radio program that has been stopped

or paused and recorded to the program buffer. You can press the Skip Forward button repeatedly, but only until you reach the end of the program buffer.

Replay Replay once to go back 7 seconds in a live or recorded radio program that has been stopped

or paused and recorded to the program buffer. You can press the Replay button repeatedly, but only until you reach the beginning of the program buffer.

Changing Radio Settings

Use Radio Settings to customize the Windows XP Media Center Radio. You can change, remove, and reorder

To use the Settings menu

On the remote, press the Radio button. The Radio

window opens.

Navigate to Settings, then press the OK button.

The Settings menu opens.

the FM radio preset stations. You can also auto-sort the stations in numeric order.

In Settings you can:

• Go to the text field for the radio station preset that you want to change, then use the numeric keypad to enter a minimum of three new digits.

• Use the up arrow or down arrow, in the FM radio preset list, to move a radio station up or down the list.

• Select the X next to a radio preset station to delete it.

• Select Auto Sort to sort the radio presets in numeric order.

Help:

For more information about the Radio Settings options, see topics in Manage FM radio presets located under the Radio section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

UsingOther Features

• Adjust Windows XP Media Center Settings

• Use More Programs

• View the Online Spotlight

ChapterNine

Changing Windows XP Media Center Settings

You can access most of the Settings menus within a specific Windows XP Media Center feature, such as My TV, My Pictures, My Music, and others. However, you can also access all of the Settings menus from Settings on the Windows XP Media Center’s main menu. This

To access the Settings menu

Press the Start button on the remote. The Windows XP Media Center menu is displayed.

With the remote, highlight Settings, then press

the OK button. The Settings menu is displayed.

menu provides easy access to all of the Settings menus, including the Windows XP Media Center general settings.

Browse the Settings menu to familiarize yourself with the Windows XP Media Center settings options.

Select a Settings menu and use the sub-menus to

adjust the Windows XP Media Center settings to your preferences.

Help:

For more information about the Settings menu options, see topics in Change settings in Media Center section of the Windows XP Media Center Help. To open Windows XP Media Center Help, move the mouse to activate the menu bar, then click the Help button .

Using More Programs

More Programs gives you access to other programs and games available to use or play from the Windows XP Media Center.

To use More Programs

Press the Start button on the remote. The Media Center menu is displayed.

Highlight a program or game, then press the OK

button.

Highlight More Programs, then press the OK

button. The Programs menu is displayed.

When finished, close the program or game. On

the remote, press the Back button to return to the Media Center menu.

Using Online Spotlight

The Windows XP Media Center Online Spotlight highlights new ways to enjoy and use your Family Media Center. Check the Online Spotlight regularly to learn more tips and tricks and to get the most out of your Family Media Center experience.

To access the Online Spotlight

Press the Start button on the remote. The Media Center menu is displayed.

With the remote, highlight Online Spotlight, then

press the OK button. The Online Spotlight page opens.

Browse information to learn more about the

Windows XP Media Center.

When finished, on the remote, press the Back

button to return to the Windows XP Media Center menu.

GettingHelp

• Get answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Learn about the Windows XP Media Center online help and other information resources

• Get Gateway contact information

ChapterTen

Media Center FAQs

Following are Family Media Center Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). To view other Media Center FAQs that are not covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site at

support.gateway.com/windowsxp/mediacenter/faqs/.

Q: Why does the Family Media Center video display look bad on my TV?

A: Many factors, such as the display type, quality of the video source, type of connection used, quality of video cables, display device screen resolution, size of TV, age of the TV, or the type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan), can affect the video quality substantially:

• Display type — The Family Media Center is best viewed on display devices recommended for the Family Media Center by Gateway. Other types of display devices, including retail TVs, may provide lower quality video. If you did not order a display device when you purchased your Family Media Center, a progressive scan display device with a DVI or VGA input is the best choice.

• Quality of video source — The quality of the video signal coming into the Family Media Center has an affect on the video quality. The video displayed from the Family Media Center is only as good as the source video signal. Cable, digital cable, and satellite usually provide better quality than an antenna.

• Type of connection used — You can connect the Family Media Center video output to a TV. However, the connection type has an affect on the video quality. The Family Media Center has three video

outputs:

DVI — If your TV includes a DVI port, connect the DVI cable from the Family Media Center’s DVI port to the TV’s DVI In port for the best quality. Many TVs do not have a DVI port.

VGA — If your TV includes a VGA port, connect the VGA cable from the Family Media Center’s VGA (monitor) port to the TV’s VGA In port for the better quality. Many TVs do not have a VGA port.

S-Video — If your TV does not have a DVI or VGA port, but includes an S-Video port, connect the S-Video cable from the Family Media Center’s S-Video Out port to the TV’s S-Video In port. S-Video display quality is usually good for TV images. The display quality for the Family Media Center computer functions, however, is not as good as DVI or VGA output. S-Video display output is not optimized for computer video display.

• Quality of video cables — Poor quality cables or the incorrect type of video cables can cause problems and affect the video quality. Gateway recommends using high quality video cables that can be purchased from Gateway on the Web, in a Gateway store, or on the phone. Note: Cable connections must be connected correctly for optimal video quality. A poor cable connection can lower video quality.

• Screen resolution — By default, if your display device was purchased with the Family Media Center, the computer uses a screen resolution of 1024 x 768 for computer monitors and 800 x 600 for the Gateway 42-inch Plasma TV. Many TVs cannot display this high resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the Family Media Center screen resolution to 800 x 600 or 640 x 480. For more information about adjusting display settings, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword changing display settings in the Search box, then press Enter.

• Size of display device — Small computer monitors for standard computer applications are generally not optimized for motion video playback. Although they offer excellent resolutions and refresh rates, they are designed to make static white backgrounds with black text look readable. Some small display devices do not make colorful motion video look its best. Generally, video will look better on a larger display device.

• Age of the TV — Newer TVs usually have more advanced features, produce a better quality picture, and support higher screen resolutions. The Family Media Center external video display will likely be better on a newer model TV.

• Type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan)

Many TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced video

displays a video frame with two passes of alternating scan lines. The TV screen first displays the video image odd lines one at a time, sequentially from top to bottom, then it fills in the other half of the video image with the even lines. Because most TVs use this interlaced method to display the picture on the screen, a standard interlaced analog TV will most likely flicker when displaying thin lines and small text. An interlaced video display device will produce a lower quality display, especially when viewing and using the Family Media Center computer functions.

Progressive scan video displays a video frame with

one pass of sequential scan lines. A progressive scan TV displays the entire picture, drawn sequentially from top to bottom, without the odd/even interlacing. This results in a fuller, sharper picture and better display quality for viewing and using the Family Media Center computer functions. The progressive scan picture is also brighter and easier on your eyes.

Q: How do I configure my Family Media Center to output to a TV?

A: Your Family Media Center detects whether you are using a DVI, VGA, or an S-Video display device and automatically changes the display settings for the type of display device you are using. For more information, review the FAQ topic at:

support.gateway.com/windowsxp/mediacenter/faqs/

Q: What display setting can I change to get better TV or DVD image quality?

(described above) on your computer to play TV programs recorded with Sonic PrimeTime.

A: Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation.

- OR -

Use the Adjust display settings calibration wizard to adjust the display type, display width, connection type, and display calibration. The Adjust display settings options are located under the Windows XP Media Center Settings, TV menu options. For more information about accessing the Windows XP Media Center Settings menu, see “Changing Windows XP Media Center Settings” on page 84.

For more information, review the FAQ topic at:

support.gateway.com/windowsxp/mediacenter/faqs/

Q: Can I burn TV programs that were recorded with my Family Media Center to a DVD-R disc?

A: Yes. Windows XP Media Center saves recorded TV programs in the .DVR-MS format. You can burn a .DVRMS file to a DVD with DVD recording (burning) software, such as Nero Express and Sonic PrimeTime.

Can I play recorded TV programs on other computers?

- OR -

Yes, you can record a .DVR-MS file, as a data file, to DVD with Nero Express and the DVD can be replayed on another Windows XP Media Center computer or on a non-Windows XP Media Center computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). The non-Windows XP Media Center computer must also have Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1, Windows Media Player 9, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update.

Q: Can I play recorded programs on my home DVD player?

A: Yes. Sonic PrimeTime, records DVDs to a format that home DVD players can read. For more information, see “Burning recorded TV programs to DVD” on page 51.

Q: Why do I get this “Download Error” message when the Windows XP Media Center tries to update the Program Guide?

A: You can record a TV program to DVD with Sonic PrimeTime. Sonic PrimeTime records the DVD in a DVD format much like a DVD movie. If you want to view the DVD on a computer, you need a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). You do not need Windows XP Service Pack (SP) 1, Windows Media Player 9, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update

A: You must be connected to the Internet to update the Guide. Make sure that your Internet account is set up and connected to the Family Media Center. For information, see “Manually updating the Guide” on page 46.

Wireless keyboard and mouse troubleshooting

Symptom Reason Solution

The Family Media Center does not recognize keyboard or mouse data input.

The mouse LED comes on when the activate button is pressed, but the Family Media Center does not respond.

When using the mouse in air, the mouse pointer is visible on the screen, but does not move.

The mouse pointer movement is choppy or erratic.

When pressing the mouse activate button, the mouse LED ﬂ ashes.

Keyboard/mouse and receiver are not synchronized.

Other radio frequency (RF) devices are interfering with the RF signal transmitted from the keyboard and mouse.

The keyboard batteries are dead or the mouse battery pack is not charged or is no longer holding a charge.

The mouse and receiver are not synchronized. Re-synchronize the mouse with the Family Media Center

The mouse gyro is not activated. Squeeze or double-click the activation trigger on the bottom of

Other radio frequency (RF) devices are interfering with the RF signal transmitted from the keyboard and mouse.

Batteries are low. Recharge or replace the battery pack. For more information,

Re-synchronize the keyboard and mouse with the Family Media Center receiver. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

• Change the keyboard or mouse channel. For more information, see “Changing the wireless keyboard or mouse channels” on page 34.

• Move other RF devices away from the Family Media Center (where the RF receiver is located).

Replace keyboard batteries or recharge the mouse batteries.

receiver. For more information, see “Setting up and synchronizing the wireless keyboard and mouse” on page 8.

the mouse.

• Change the mouse channel. For more information, see “Changing the wireless keyboard or mouse channels” on page 34.

• Move other RF devices away from the Family Media Center (where the RF receiver is located).

see “To install and charge the battery pack” on page 8.

When pressing the mouse activation trigger, the mouse LED is off.

Batteries are dead.

The mouse is turned off

• Recharge or replace the battery pack. For more information, see “To install and charge the battery pack” on page 8.

• Turn the mouse power on. For more information, see “Turning the wireless keyboard or mouse power on and off” on page 35.

Symptom Reason Solution

The mouse pointer moves too slow or too fast.

The mouse pointer drifts on the screen.

The mouse LED does not ﬂ ash in the charging cradle and the mouse does not charge.

The mouse battery life is running out too quickly.

The mouse speed or acceleration is not set correctly. Change the mouse pointer tracking speed. For more

The mouse sensor my require recalibration. Place the mouse on the desk for 4 or more seconds to steady

The mouse has dirty contacts.

The battery pack recharge life has ended.

The mouse is being used on a dark surface. Use the mouse on a light-colored surface to minimize

information, see “Fine-tuning the wireless mouse pointer control” on page 34.

the pointer.

Clean the contacts on the bottom of the mouse.

Replace the battery pack.

battery drain.

Getting more help

The Windows XP Media Center is easy to use when you follow the on-screen menus. However, if you need additional help or information about using the Windows

To open Windows XP Media Center Help

In the Media Center window, move the mouse to

activate the Windows XP Media Center tool bar. The tool bar appears at the top of the window.

XP Media Center features, help is available at your fingertips.

Click the Help icon to view or search for

information in the Windows XP Media Center online help.

Using Help and Support

Your Family Media Center also includes Help and Support, an easily accessible collection of help information, troubleshooters, and automated support.

To open Help and Support

To start Help and Support, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Help and Support opens.

Use Help and Support to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and use the many features of your Family Media Center.

Click a topic link.

- OR -

Type a word or phrase (keyword) in the Search box located at the top of any Help and Support screen, then click the arrow button to start the search. The search results appear below the search box.

Gateway 901 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual