Gateway DX4870, SX2870, ZX4451 Quick Start Manual

4.5 (2)

User’s Guide

Gateway desktop series

- 1

TA B LE OF CON TENTS

Starting your computer

4 Software

25

Registration ........................................................

4

Software installation ...........................................

5

Recovery ............................................................

5

Having trouble? ..................................................

5

Computer Basics

7

Safety and comfort .............................................

7

Safety precautions ......................................

7

Health precautions ....................................

10

Setting up your computer

12

Arranging a comfortable work area ..................

12

Adjusting your chair ..................................

12

Positioning your PC ..................................

13

Positioning your monitor ...........................

14

Positioning your keyboard.........................

14

Positioning your mouse.............................

14

Using your computer

16

Connecting the computer .................................

16

Connect your mouse and keyboard ..........

16

Connect a monitor.....................................

17

Connect to a broadband network..............

17

Connect to power......................................

17

Turning on your computer ................................

18

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

18

Using the optical drive......................................

18

To insert a disc into your computer's

 

optical drive:..............................................

19

Taking care of your optical discs ..............

19

Upgrading your computer

20

Expanding through options ..............................

20

Connectivity options..................................

20

Using Windows and your software ..................

25

Welcome Center ......................................

25

Internet security offer ...............................

25

Productivity software ................................

26

Gateway Recovery Management.............

26

Playing multimedia files............................

26

AutoPlay...................................................

28

Playing downloaded files..........................

29

Playing DVD movies ................................

30

Playing Blu-ray movies.............................

31

Internet

32

First steps on the net .......................................

32

Protecting your computer .........................

32

Choose an Internet Service Provider .......

32

Network connections................................

34

Surf the Net! .............................................

37

Security ....................................................

40

Helpdesk

53

Safe computing................................................

53

Maintenance.............................................

53

Updates....................................................

60

Windows Remote Assistance...................

62

Frequently asked questions

63

Recovery

66

Gateway Recovery Management ....................

66

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

66

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

69

Types of recovery.....................................

71

2 - Table of Contents

Regulatory information

77

Environment

89

Software license

91

Index

94

Copyright © 2012.

Gateway desktop series user’s guide

All Rights Reserved.

Original Issue: 22 March 2012

Visit registration.gateway.com and discover the benefits of being a customer of Gateway.

Remark: All images are for reference purposes only. Actual configuration may vary.

Table of Contents - 3

STARTING Y O U R COMPUTER

Thank you for purchasing this Gateway computer!

This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your computer and assist in your computing experience.

After setting up and starting your computer, as shown in the setup instructions, it will ask you questions that will help you connect to the Internet. Your computer will then configure installed software.

REGISTRATION

When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that you register it. This gives you access to some useful benefits, such as:

Faster service from our trained representatives.

Membership in the Gateway community: receive promotions and participate in customer surveys.

The latest news from Gateway.

How to register

During the initial startup of your computer, a window will invite you to register. Please fill in the information and click Next. The second window you'll see contains optional fields that will help us to provide you with a more personable customer service experience.

4 - Starting your computer

Another option

Another way to register your Gateway product is to visit our website at registration.gateway.com. Choose your country and follow the simple instructions.

After registering, you will be sent a confirmation email with important information that you should keep in a safe place.

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION

Your computer will automatically install software and prepare your computer for use. This may take some time, please do not turn off your computer; wait until the installation has finished.

RECOVERY

You should create recovery discs as soon as you are able. The Gateway Recovery Management program allow you to create recovery discs and then to restore or reinstall applications and drivers provided by Gateway. You will need a pack of writable DVDs.

HAVING TROUBLE?

Gateway provides several options to support your purchase.

Gateway support

Make sure you write down your computer serial number, date and place of purchase and model name on the area provided in this guide; save your proof of purchase. Before you call us, please write down any error

Starting your computer - 5

message that accompanies the problem, and have the computer in front of you and switched on if possible. Having these items to hand when contacting us will ensure better and quicker service.

Gateway website

Remember to visit www.gateway.com - Check out the support section for up-to-date information, help, drivers and downloads.

Warranty and contact information

You can find information about the warranty for your computer and how to contact technical support in your computer’s Warranty.

6 - Starting your computer

COMPUTER BASICS

SAFETY AND COMFORT

Safety precautions

Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably and to avoid health problems.

Computer environment

Make sure that the computer:

Is used on a stable surface, stand or table. A fall can seriously damage the computer.

Is not used on a surface that vibrates, or used when taking part in sport, exercise or other activities in a dynamic environment. Vibration or movement can loosen fastenings, damage internal components and even cause battery leakage.

Is away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

Is away from magnetic fields or any device generating static electricity.

Is kept at least 30 centimetres (one foot) away from a mobile phone.

Is not in a dusty or damp environment.

Is not used near water. Never spill liquids of any kind on or into your computer.

Is not placed on a carpet or any other surface that may have an electrical charge.

Computer Basics - 7

Cables

Make sure that:

Cables are not strained and that there is no risk of people walking or tripping over them.

Other devices do not crush the cables.

The power cable is connected to the computer before connecting the power cable to the AC power outlet.

The power cable is unplugged from the power outlet before disconnecting the power cable from the computer.

Three-pin power cords are connected to a grounded power outlet.

The power outlet is easily accessible and as close to the computer as possible (do not overload it with too many adapters).

If your computer uses an external AC adapter:

Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter. Allow the adapter to cool properly during use by keeping it clear of objects.

Only use the AC adapter that is supplied with your computer. Although other adapters may look similar, using them can damage your computer. If a replacement is required, use only parts certified for use with your computer.

Cleaning your computer

Always unplug your computer from the power outlet before cleaning it.

Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, use a damp cloth instead.

Never spray cleaning product directly on the screen.

8 - Computer Basics

If dust has accumulated inside your computer, do not use a vacuum cleaner to remove it.

If you spill liquid on your computer or any device attached to it, switch it off immediately, unplug the power cord and make sure it is completely dry before switching it on again. Wait overnight if necessary.

Note: If your computer includes slots for memory cards or expansion devices, plastic ’dummies’ may be installed in the card slots. Dummies protect unused slots from dust, metal objects or other particles. Save the dummies for use when no cards are in the slots.

Servicing your computer

Do not attempt to service your computer yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Unplug your computer from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel when:

the power cord or plug is damaged, cut or frayed,

liquid was spilled into the product,

the product was exposed to rain or water,

the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged,

the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,

the product does not operate normally after following the operating instructions

Computer Basics - 9

Note: Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition.

Health precautions

The computer and accessories may contain small parts. Keep them out of the reach of small children.

If you work or play for hours at a time, then make sure you take regular breaks. Look away from the computer's screen once in a while. Do not use your computer if you are tired.

To protect your hearing, when using speakers or headphones, increase volume gradually until you can hear clearly and comfortably; do not increase the volume level after your ears have adjusted. Do not listen to high volumes for extended periods. Do not increase the volume to block out noisy surroundings; decrease the volume if you cannot hear people speaking near you.

Ensure that the computer’s ventilation slots and openings are never obstructed or covered. Do not place the computer on a soft surface (such as a carpet, chair or bed) that may block ventilation slots.

Do not push objects of any kind into ventilation or case slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that may result in a fire or electric shock.

Some disorders of the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, legs and back may be associated with, or aggravated by certain repetitive

10 - Computer Basics

actions. To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, type with your wrists straight and your hands and wrists floating above the keyboard. If you experience periods of pain, tingling, numbness or other discomfort, please contact your doctor.

We advise that parents monitor the use of games by their children. If you or your child experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness, blurred vision, eye or muscle twitches, loss of consciousness, disorientation, any involuntary movement or convulsion, IMMEDIATELY discontinue use and consult your doctor. This may happen even if the person has no medical history of epilepsy.

Computer Basics - 11

SETTING UP Y O U R COMPUTER

ARRANGING A COMFORTABLE WORK AREA

Working safely and comfortably begins with the arrangement of your work space and the proper use of equipment. For this reason, it is very important to take time and think about how you are going to arrange your work area. Refer to the diagram on the following page as you set up your system.

Here are some points to consider:

Adjusting your chair

Having the right kind of chair does not necessarily mean you'll be properly supported. It is necessary to adjust your chair to fit your body. Proper body posture will make you more comfortable and productive.

Avoid tilting your chair. If you have a chair that tilts, lock the tilt knobs so that your chair will not tilt forward or backward while you are using your computer.

Adjust your chair height in such a way that you can sit on it with your thighs parallel to the floor and your feet resting flat on the floor.

Rest your body on the chair back. Your torso works harder to maintain balance if you do not rest your body on the chair back.

12 - Setting up your computer

Positioning your PC

Take note of the following when selecting a location for your computer:

Do not put your computer near any equipment that might cause electromagnetic or radio frequency interference, such as radio transmitters, televisions, copy machines or heating and air-conditioning equipment.

Avoid dusty areas and extremes of temperature and humidity.

You may place your computer beside your desk or under your table, as long as it does not block the space you need for working and moving.

Setting up your computer - 13

Positioning your monitor

Place your monitor at a comfortable viewing distance, usually 50 to 60 cm away. Adjust the display in such a way that the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level.

Positioning your keyboard

The location of the keyboard is a very important factor for your posture. Placing it too far away will make your body lean forward, forcing you to sit in an unnatural position. Placing it too high will add tension to your shoulder muscles.

The keyboard should be placed just above your lap. Adjust the keyboard height by flipping the folding stands located under the keyboard.

Keep your lower arms parallel to the floor as you type. Your upper arms and shoulders should be relaxed. Then try typing with a light touch. If you feel any shoulder or neck strain, stop for a while and check your posture.

Position your keyboard in front of your monitor. Putting your keyboard beside your monitor will make you turn your head while you type which could add tension to your neck muscles.

Positioning your mouse

The mouse should be placed on the same surface as your keyboard so that you can reach it with ease.

14 - Setting up your computer

Adjust its position to allow enough space for movement without making you stretch or lean over.

Use your arm to move the mouse. Do not rest your wrist on the table when moving the mouse.

Setting up your computer - 15

USING YOUR COMPUTER

CONNECTING THE COMPUTER

Setting up your computer is easy. For the most part, you only have four things to connect: the mouse, the keyboard, the monitor, and the power cable.

Note: The peripherals shown in the connections below are for your reference only. Actual device models may vary.

Please follow the instructions provided on the setup guide.

Connect your mouse and keyboard

PS/2 interface

Plug the PS/2 mouse and keyboard cable into the PS/2 keyboard port (purple port) and mouse port (green port) located on the rear panel of your computer.

USB interface

You can also plug a USB mouse or a USB keyboard cable into any of the USB ports located on the front and rear panels of your computer.

Wireless

Certain computers include a wireless mouse and keyboard. Please follow the instructions provided on the setup guide.

16 - Using your computer

Connect a monitor

To connect a monitor, simply plug the monitor cable into the appropriate port located on the rear panel of your computer.

Note: The type of connection can vary. Use a cable that matches both your monitor and your computer. Refer to the monitor manual for additional instructions and information.

Connect to a broadband network

Individual network configuration

Connect one end of the network cable on the network port on the rear of the computer, then connect the other end of the network cable into the cable modem or network jack or hub on your network.

Note: Consult your operating system help files for information on how to configure your network setup.

Connect to power

1.Plug the power cable into the power cable socket located on the rear panel of your computer.

2.Plug the other end of the power cable into a power outlet.

Caution: Before you proceed, check the voltage range in your area. Make sure that it matches your computer's voltage setting. If they don't match, change your computer's voltage setting according to your area's voltage range.

Using your computer - 17

TURNING ON YOUR COMPUTER

After making sure that you have properly set up the system, applied power, and connected all the necessary peripherals, you can now power on the system.

Important: Make sure that the power cable is properly plugged into an electrical outlet. If you are using a power strip or an AVR (AutoVoltage Regulator), make sure that it is plugged in and turned on.

TURNING OFF YOUR COMPUTER

1.On the Windows taskbar, click on the Start button, then click Shut Down.

2.Turn off all peripherals connected to your computer.

If you cannot shut down your computer normally, press and hold the power button for at least four seconds. Quickly pressing the button may put the computer in suspend mode only.

USING THE OPTICAL DRIVE

Your computer may come with an optical drive. This drive is located on the front panel of your computer. The drive allows you to play all common CD, DVDs, and optionally Blu-ray discs. You may also save information and create your own CDs or DVDs with appropriate software and special writable discs (e.g by using a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R or DVD-RW).

Optical discs are compact, lightweight and easy to carry around. However, they are delicate and must be handled with care.

18 - Using your computer

To insert a disc into your computer's optical drive:

1.Press the optical drive’s eject button.

2.When the disc tray slides open, place the disc gently on the tray. Make sure that the label or title side of the disc is facing upward.

When holding a disc, hold it by the edges to avoid leaving smudges or fingerprints.

3.Push the tray and it will close automatically or press the eject/load button.

Taking care of your optical discs

Keep your disc in its case when not in use to avoid scratches or other damage. Any kind of dirt or damage can affect the data on the disc, impair the disc lens reader on the optical drive, or stop the computer from successfully reading the disc.

When handling discs, always hold them by the edges to avoid smudges or fingerprints.

When cleaning discs, use a clean, dust-free cloth and wipe in a straight line from the center to the edge. Do not wipe in a circular motion.

Clean you optical drive periodically with a cleaning kit; cleaning kits may be purchased at any computer or electronics shop.

Using your computer - 19

UPGRADING YOUR COMPUTER

EXPANDING THROUGH OPTIONS

Your computer offers you many options for a complete computing experience.

Connectivity options

Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section.

Memory card reader

Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones.

Inserting a memory card

1.Align the card so that the connector points towards the port, with the connectors facing down.

2.Carefully slide the card into the port. If you find you

need to use any force to insert the card, try reorientating the card slightly.

3.Push the card until it clicks into place. A few millimetres of the card will extend from beyond the slot.

20 - Upgrading your computer

If the card contains some files, the Windows Auto Play window may appear (this depends on the contents of the card) and ask you if you wish to use a program to access the contents of the card. Select an option here if it is appropriate, otherwise select Cancel. If the card contains no files, or unknown files, a window will open showing the contents of the card.

SD, SDHC and SDXC cards

Different types of SD cards cover different capacities, while using the same overall design. SD cards contain up to 4 GB, SDHC cards contain up to 32 GB, and SDXC cards can contain up to 2048 GB (2 TB). Your computer provides an SDHC or SDXC compatible card reader.

Note: SDXC memory cards can only be used in an SDXC-compatible reader; SD and SDHC cards can be used in either type.

Removing a card from an memory card reader

1.Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Notification Area (next to the clock).

2.Click on Eject SD Card (or the

name of the device).

3. Wait until a Safe to Remove Hardware message is displayed.

4. Remove the card.

1

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Upgrading your computer - 21

Gateway DX4870, SX2870, ZX4451 Quick Start Manual

Built-in networking

The built-in networking allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based network.

Connect an Ethernet cable from the Ethernet (RJ-45) port on the chassis of the computer to a network jack or hub on your network.

Universal Serial Bus (USB)

The USB port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect USB peripherals without taking up system resources.

22 - Upgrading your computer

Certain computers may include one or more USB 3.0 ports. These resemble standard USB ports, except they include additional internal connections and are blue. You may use USB 3.0 compatible devices with these ports to benefit from faster transfer speeds.

Video port

Connect to a monitor with a VGA or DVI port (the type of connection supported depends on your computer’s configuration). The appropriate cable is usually included with the monitor.

Follow these steps to connect an monitor to your computer:

1.Check that the computer is powered off and the monitor power switch is turned off.

2.Attach the video cable to the monitor port on the computer. Secure the cable connection with the screws provided.

3.Connect the monitor power cable and plug it into a properly grounded wall outlet.

4.Follow any setup instructions in the monitor's user's guide.

5.Turn on power to the monitor, then the computer.

6.Make sure that the current resolution and refresh rate do not exceed the specifications of the monitor. If necessary change the display settings used by the computer.

Note: To access the display controls: Click on Start, Control Panel,

Appearance and Personalization. Click on the Display category, then select Change Display Settings.

Upgrading your computer - 23

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (only for certain models)

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is an industrysupported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. HDMI provides an interface between any compatible digital audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, and A/V receiver and a compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV), over a single cable.

Use the HDMI port on your computer to connect with highend audio and video equipment. Single cable implementation allows tidy setup and fast connection.

Headphones and microphone

These two ports allow you to connect audio devices. Use the headphone port to plug in stereo headphones or powered speakers. Plugging an audio device to the headphone port disables the built-in speakers. Use the microphone port to connect an external microphone for mono recording; plugging in an external microphone disables the built-in microphone.

24 - Upgrading your computer

SOFTWARE

USING WINDOWS AND YOUR SOFTWARE

Gateway computers include software to help you use your computer; the programs and categories available on your computer depend on the model purchased. Most of this software is ’pre-installed’ and ready to be used; however some software may be provided on a CD or DVD and must first be installed if you wish to use it. To do so, insert the installation CD or DVD. An installation wizard will start automatically and all you have to do is follow the instructions on the screen.

Welcome Center

The first time you turn on your computer, the Welcome Center window opens. The Welcome Center introduces you to the new features and tools of Windows. You can access the Welcome Center later by clicking Start

> Getting Started.

Internet security offer

It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the Internet (see Security on page 40). An comprehensive Internet security suite, including a free trial subscription period, is offered when you first start your computer. You should activate this protection before connecting to the Internet. This security suite protects your computer from the most

Software - 25

recent online threats and protects your personal data (bank account credentials, credit card numbers, passwords, and more).

Productivity software

Work Great with Microsoft® Office 2010 - Express your ideas, solve problems and simplify everyday projects with Office 2010.

Photo editing - Easily edit and print your photos with Windows Live Photo Gallery. Then share them on Facebook, YouTube™ or Windows Live.

Search & Decide with Bing™ - Find and organize the answers you need using Bing™, so you can make faster, more informed decisions.

Gateway Recovery Management

To prepare your computer for system recovery options, you should create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible. See page 66 for more information.

Playing multimedia files

You may use the media software on your computer to play music, films or photo slide-shows and watch television (if your computer has a TV tuner). Other options allow you to create CDs or DVDs.

One or more media programs are installed on your computer, Windows Media Player and optionally Windows Media Center are provided by Microsoft. Other media programs may have been installed by Gateway to provide an improved media experience.

26 - Software

Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player may be used to play MP3 or WMA audio files, CDs or most video files.

Note: It is not recommended that you use Windows Media Player to play DVD movies. Other media players (such as Windows Media Center) provide additional playback options.

Windows Media Center (optional)

Certain computers include all-in- one media ‘centers’ such as

Windows Media Center. These programs can handle a variety of multimedia content, presented with simple menus that may be easily controlled with a remote control. You may watch live or recorded TV (if your computer has a TV tuner),

listen to digital music, view pictures and personal videos, create CDs and DVDs, or access content from online services.

To start the media program installed on your computer, click on Start >

Windows Media Center.

Setup

Caution: If your computer includes a remote control or TV tuner they must be connected and active before starting the media program for the first time.

Software - 27

The first time you start the media program, it will start a setup wizard, which will configure some basic settings. If available, select the Express setup option, you may then configure additional options as needed.

Note: If you have an Internet connection, the Guide (Electronic Program Guide) allows you to view a list of current TV shows. This shows channel and network information, as well as the title, description and scheduled broadcast time of shows.

Cyberlink PowerDVD (optional)

If your computer does not include Windows Media Center, or it is equipped with a Blu-ray drive, you may watch movies with PowerDVD. You may start PowerDVD by inserting a disc and waiting for the program to start automatically.

AutoPlay

The Windows AutoPlay function allows you to choose the way Windows handles media files on devices with removable storage (digital camera, CD, DVD, etc).

If you have inserted a disk that contains files (such as a DVD, USB key or memory card), Windows will display a dialog box and ask you to choose how you want to open the files.

For example, if you have inserted an audio CD or a DVD movie, Windows will automatically display a dialog box and ask you to choose how you

28 - Software

want to play it. If Windows asks you to select a DVD player, we recommend that you always choose the DVD player included with your software collection (e.g. PowerDVD or Windows Media Player).

Playing downloaded files

Downloaded files may work with the media programs installed on your computer, or may require specific programs. Files that include DRM functions may only play in specific programs (e.g. iTunes, Windows Media Player) or only on devices certified for use with the each type of file. Other formats may require a specific audio or video codec that may not have been installed on your computer.

Codecs

A codec is software that is used to compress or decompress a digital media file, such as a song or video. Windows Media Player and other programs use codecs to play and create digital media files.

For example, when you rip a song from an audio CD to your computer, the player uses the Windows Media Audio codec to compress the song into a compact WMA file. When you play that WMA file (or any WMA file that might be streamed from a Web site), the media player uses the Windows Media Audio codec to decompress the file so the music can be played through your speakers.

Why do I get a message that says my computer is missing a codec?

If you get a message that says that your computer is missing a codec, it may be because you are using a file that was compressed using a codec

Software - 29

that Windows or the media player does not include by default. In many cases, you can download and install the missing codec by clicking on the Web Help button in the error message.

Please also see Windows Help and Support for more information.

Playing DVD movies

You can play DVD movies on your computer. 1. Insert the DVD.

Important! When you launch the DVD player for the first time, the program asks you to enter the region code. DVD content is coded with one of six regions. Please refer to the table below for DVD movie region code information.

Once your DVD drive is set to a region code, it will play DVD discs of that region only. You can set the region code a maximum of five times (including the first time), after which the last region code set will remain permanent. Recovering your hard disk does not reset the number of times the region code has been set.

2. The DVD movie will automatically play after a few seconds.

Region code Country or region

1USA, Canada

2Europe, Middle East, South Africa, Japan

3Southeast Asia, Taiwan, South Korea

4Latin America, Australia, New Zealand

5Former USSR, parts of Africa, India

30 - Software

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