Loading...Gateway E-2610, E-2600 Owner's Manual
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REFERENCEGUIDE
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Contents
Chapter 1: About This Reference . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accessing your online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer . . . . . 5
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 11
Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Sitting at your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . .14 Positioning the computer case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Preparing power connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . . .15 Connecting a dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Starting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Waking up your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Restarting (rebooting) your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Premium multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Elite multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Standard keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Using optical drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Loading an optical disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Identifying optical drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
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Playing discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Creating discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Using the diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Installing a printer, scanner, or other device . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Chapter 4: Upgrading Your Computer. . . . . . . 35
Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Opening and closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Removing and installing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Replacing an optical or diskette drive, or a card reader . . . 40 Replacing the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Adding or replacing an expansion card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Replacing the front fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Replacing the front I/O board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Replacing the processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Replacing the system battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Replacing the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Replacing the system board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Chapter 5: Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . 67
Setting up a maintenance schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Cleaning the monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Cleaning optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Using BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
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Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78 Scheduling maintenance tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78 Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Transferring files and settings automatically . . . . . . . . . .79 Transferring files and settings manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Chapter 6: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Add-in cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 CD or DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Expansion cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 Floppy drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98 Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98 Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100 Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
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Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Understanding system recovery options . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Appendix A: Legal Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
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CHAPTER1
About This Reference
•About this guide
•Accessing your online User Guide
•Gateway contact information
•Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity
•For more information
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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference
About this guide
This guide includes information and maintenance instructions that are specific to your model of Gateway computer. Some illustrations in this guide may look different than your computer because hardware options and port locations may vary. For all other computer information, see your online User Guide.
For more information
For more information about your computer, visit Gateway’s Support page at www.gateway.com or the Web address shown on your computer’s label. The Support page also has links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications.
Accessing your online User Guide
In addition to this guide, your User Guide has been included on your hard drive. Your User Guide is an in-depth, easy-to-read manual that includes information on the following topics:
•Help and technical support
•Using and customizing Windows and other software
•Controlling audio and video settings
•Using the Internet
•Protecting your files
•Playing and recording media
•Networking
To access your User Guide:
•Click 
(Start), All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.
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Gateway contact information
The label on the top or side of your computer contains information that identifies your computer model and serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.
Online support:
Tech Support Phone: (U.S.) (Canada)
Tech Support Hours:
9004394
Microsoft Certificate of
Authenticity
The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the back or side of your computer includes the product key code for your operating system. If you ever reinstall Windows from the installation DVD, you will need to enter these numbers to activate Windows.
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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference
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CHAPTER2
Checking Out Your
Computer
•Front
•Back
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Front
Memory card reader or diskette drive (optional)
Power button/ power indicator
USB ports (optional)
IEEE 1394 port (optional)
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer
DVD/CD drive
Hard drive activity indicator
Headphone jack
Microphone jack
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Memory card |
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Insert a memory card from a digital camera, |
reader or diskette |
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MP3 player, PDA, cellular telephone, or other |
drive (optional) |
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device into the memory card reader. Insert a |
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3.5" diskette (floppy) to read from and write to. |
Power |
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Press this button to turn the power on or off. |
button/power |
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You can also configure the power button to |
indicator |
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operate in Sleep mode or Hibernate mode. The |
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power indicator lights when the computer is |
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turned on. |
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USB ports |
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Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as |
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a USB external drive, printer, scanner, camera, |
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keyboard, or mouse) into these ports. For more |
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information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, |
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or other device” on page 32. |
(IEEE 1394) port |
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Plug a IEEE 1394 (also known as FireWire™) |
(optional) |
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device (such as a digital camcorder) into this |
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6-pin port. |
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DVD/CD drive |
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Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install |
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games and programs, watch DVDs, and store |
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large files onto recordable discs (depending on |
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drive type). This drive may be a CD, recordable |
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CD, DVD, recordable DVD, Blu-ray, or HD DVD |
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drive. For more information about your drive, |
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see “Identifying optical drive types” on |
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page 26. |
Hard drive activity |
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When lit, indicates hard drive activity. |
indicator |
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Headphone jack |
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Plug powered, analog front speakers, an |
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external amplifier, or headphones into this |
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jack. This jack is color-coded green. |
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Microphone jack |
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Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is |
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color-coded pink. |
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Back
Panel release lever
Voltage switch
Power connector
Audio (line) in/side speaker jack
Ethernet (network) jack
Parallel port
PS/2 mouse port
Modem (line) jack (optional)
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer
Line out (headphones)/ front speaker jack
Microphone jack
USB ports
Monitor (VGA) port
Serial port
PS/2 keyboard port
Telephone jack (optional)
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Panel release lever |
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Pull this latch out to release the side panel. |
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Voltage switch |
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Make sure this switch is positioned correctly |
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for the power in your area. For more |
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information, see “Checking the voltage |
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selection” on page 15. |
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Power connector |
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Plug the power cord into this connector. |
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Audio (line) in/side |
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Plug an external audio input source (such as |
speaker jack (blue) |
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a stereo) into this jack so you can record |
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sound on your computer. For 5.1 surround |
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sound, plug the surround sound side |
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speakers to this jack. |
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Ethernet (network) |
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Plug an Ethernet network cable or a device |
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jack |
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(such as a cable or DSL modem) into this |
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jack. For more information, see “Learning |
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about the Internet” in your online User Guide |
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and “Connecting to a broadband modem or |
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network” on page 15. |
Parallel port |
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Plug a parallel device (such as a printer) |
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into this port. |
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PS/2 mouse port |
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Plug a PS/2 mouse into this port. |
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(green) |
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Modem (line) jack |
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Plug a modem cable into this jack. For more |
(optional) |
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information, see “Connecting a dial-up |
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modem” on page 16. |
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Line out |
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Plug headphones or amplified speakers into |
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(headphones)/front |
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this jack. For 5.1 surround sound, plug the |
speaker jack (green) |
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surround sound front speaker to this jack. |
Microphone jack |
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Plug a microphone into this jack. |
(pink) |
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USB ports |
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Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such |
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as a USB printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, |
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or mouse) into these ports. For more |
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information, see “Installing a printer, |
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scanner, or other device” on page 32. |
Monitor (VGA) port |
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Plug a VGA monitor cable into this port. |
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Serial port |
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Plug a serial device into this port. |
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9
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer
Component |
Icon |
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PS/2 keyboard port |
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Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port. |
(purple) |
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Telephone jack |
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Plug your telephone into this jack. |
(optional) |
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10
CHAPTER3
Setting Up and Getting
Started
•Working safely and comfortably
•Preparing power connections
•Connecting to a broadband modem or network
•Connecting a dial-up modem
•Starting your computer
•Turning off your computer
•Restarting (rebooting) your computer
•Using the keyboard
•Using the mouse
•Using optical drives
•Using the memory card reader
•Using the diskette drive
•Adjusting the volume
•Installing a printer, scanner, or other device
11
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Working safely and comfortably
Before using your computer, follow these general guidelines for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain:
•Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.
•Adjust the screen so it is perpendicular to your line of sight, and the top of the screen is no higher than eye level.
•Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.
•Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.
Top of screen is not higher than eye level
Screen is perpendicular to your line of sight
Hands and arms are parallel to the floor
Feet are flat on the floor
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www.gateway.com
Reducing eye strain
Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the screen or shine directly into your eyes.
•Position the computer desk and monitor so you can avoid glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes. Reduce glare by installing shades or curtains on windows and by installing a glare screen filter.
•Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use your computer in a dark room.
•Set paper holders at the same height and distance as the monitor.
•Avoid focusing your eyes on your screen for long periods of time. Every 10 or 15 minutes, look around the room, and try to focus on distant objects.
Setting up your computer desk and chair
When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make sure that the desk is the appropriate height and the chair helps you maintain good posture.
•Select a flat surface for your computer desk.
•Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you use the keyboard and mouse. If the desk is not adjustable or is too tall, consider using an adjustable chair to control your arm’s height above the keyboard.
•Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.
•Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly below the level of your elbow. This position lets your shoulders relax while you type.
•Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of the seat, or use a footrest to distribute your weight evenly on the chair and relieve pressure on the back of your thighs.
•Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower curve of your spine. You can use a pillow or cushion to provide extra back support.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Sitting at your computer
•Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type.
•Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your back straight so your knees, hips, and elbows form right angles when you work.
•Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.
•Avoid twisting your torso or neck.
Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain
•Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.
•Take breaks to change your position, stretch your muscles, and relieve your eyes.
•Find ways to break up the work day, and schedule a variety of tasks.
Positioning the computer case
Position the computer case in a location that is easy for you to reach. Your case can be positioned either horizontally or vertically. With the case in a vertical orientation, you can rotate the support base on bottom for more stability.
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Preparing power connections
Protecting from power source problems
Warning
High voltages can enter your computer through both the power cord and the modem connection. Protect your computer by using a surge protector. If you have a telephone or DSL modem, use a surge protector that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the modem.
During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your computer can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your computer and peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents them from reaching your computer.
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your work and shut down your computer normally.
Checking the voltage selection
Caution
If you set the voltage selection switch incorrectly, your system will be damaged. Make sure this switch is set correctly for your location before turning on your computer. In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal 115 volts at 60 Hz. The power supply should always be set to this when your computer is operating in the United States. In other areas of the world, such as Europe, the utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your computer is operating in an environment such as this, the voltage switch should be moved to 230.
The power supply, a component built into your computer, provides power to the system board, add-in cards, and peripheral devices. The power supply’s voltage selection for your location is typically set at the factory, but you can change it to match the electrical service available in your usage area (such as while in another country). Use the power selection switch on the back of your computer to set the voltage to 115V or 230V. To verify that your system has the correct setting for your area, check the voltage selection switch.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
To set the voltage selection switch:
1Disconnect your computer’s power cable.
2Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the voltage selection switch to the correct voltage position. The switch is located on the back of your computer, near the power cable connector.
Connecting to a broadband modem or network
Important
Your computer has a built-in Ethernet (network) jack. For information about setting up a wired or wireless Ethernet network, see your online User Guide.
You can connect your computer to a broadband (cable or DSL) modem or to a wired Ethernet network.
To connect to a broadband modem or to an Ethernet network:
1Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack 
.
2Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable modem, DSL modem, or network jack.
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Connecting a dial-up modem
Warning
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord.
Your computer may have a 56K modem that you can use with a standard telephone line to connect to the Internet or fax documents.
To connect the modem:
1Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem jack 
at the back of your computer.
2Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack. (The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.)
3If you want, connect a telephone to the PHONE jack at the back of your computer.
Starting your computer
To start your computer:
1Connect the power, network, mouse, and keyboard cables to your computer according to the setup poster.
2Press the power button on the front of your computer. If your computer does not turn on, check the power cable connections.
Important
Your computer has a variable-speed fan, which can run at different speeds at times to ensure correct system cooling. You may notice an increase in the fan noise when the fan is running at high speed and a decrease in the fan noise when it switches to normal speed.
3If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen instructions to select the language and time zone and to create your first user account.
4Attach and turn on any USB or audio peripheral devices, such as printers, scanners, and speakers. If you need to attach a peripheral device to the parallel or serial ports, turn off your computer first. See the documentation that came with each device for its setup instructions.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
5To open your computer’s Start menu, click Start. From that menu, you can run programs and search for files. For more information on using your computer’s menus, see “Using Windows” and “Customizing Windows” in your online User Guide.
Waking up your computer
Tip
For more information about changing the power button mode, see the “Customizing Windows” chapter in your online User Guide.
When you have not used your computer for several minutes, it may enter a power-saving mode called Sleep. While in Sleep mode, the power indicator on the power button flashes.
If your computer is in Sleep mode, move the mouse, press a key on the keyboard, or press the power button to “wake” it up. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button.
Turning off your computer
Warning
When you turn off your computer, certain components in the power supply and system board remain energized. In order to remove all electrical power from your computer, unplug the power cord and modem cable from the wall outlets. We recommend disconnecting the power cord and modem cable when your computer will not be used for long periods.
Important
If for some reason you cannot use the Shut Down option in Windows to turn off your computer, press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release it.
Putting your computer into Sleep mode is the easiest way to power down your computer. Although it does not turn your computer completely off, it does turn off or slow down most system operations to save power, and saves your desktop layout so the next time you restore power, the programs are laid out just as you left them. Waking your computer from a Sleep state is much faster than turning on your computer after it has been turned completely off.
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To put your computer in Sleep (power-saving) mode:
1Click Start, Shut Down, then click Standby.
2To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button.
To turn off your computer:
•Click Start, Shut Down, then click Shut Down again.
Windows shuts down and turns off your computer.
Important
To completely disconnect all power (such as for servicing internal components), also disconnect the power cord.
Restarting (rebooting) your computer
To restart your computer:
•Click Start, Shut Down, then click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns on again.
- OR -
If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off (about five seconds), then press it again to turn the computer back on.
As a part of the regular startup process, a program to check the disk status runs automatically. When the checks are finished, Windows starts.
19
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Using the keyboard
Premium multimedia keyboard features
The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.
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Function keys |
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Indicators |
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Editing buttons |
Internet buttons |
Audio playback buttons Navigation keys |
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Internet buttons |
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Windows keys |
Application key Directional keys Numeric keypad |
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Feature |
Icon |
Description |
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Editing buttons |
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Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste. |
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Function keys |
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Press these keys to start program actions. Each |
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program uses different function keys for different |
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purposes. See the program documentation to |
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find out more about the function key actions. |
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Internet buttons |
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Press these buttons to launch your Internet home |
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page, search, or e-mail programs. |
Audio playback |
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Press these buttons to play your audio files and |
buttons |
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to adjust the volume. |
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Navigation keys |
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Press these keys to move the cursor to the |
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beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the |
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page, down the page, to the beginning of a |
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document, or to the end of a document. |
Indicators |
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Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK |
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keys are activated. Press the corresponding key |
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to activate the function. |
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Feature |
Icon |
Description |
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Windows keys |
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Press one of these keys to open the Windows |
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Start menu. These keys can also be used in |
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combination with other keys to open utilities like |
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F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer). |
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Application key |
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Press this key to access shortcut menus and help |
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assistants in Windows. |
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Directional keys |
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Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, |
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right, or left. |
Numeric keypad |
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Press these keys to type numbers when the |
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numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on. |
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Elite multimedia keyboard features
The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.
Sleep button Function keys |
Application buttons |
Audio playback |
Indicators |
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buttons |
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Windows keys |
Application key |
Navigation keys Numeric keypad |
21
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Feature |
Icon |
Description |
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Sleep button |
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Press this button to activate your computer’s |
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Sleep (power-saving) mode. |
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Function keys |
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Press these keys to start program actions. Each |
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program uses different function keys for |
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different purposes. See the program |
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documentation to find out more about the |
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function key actions. |
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Application buttons |
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Press these buttons to launch your Internet |
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home page, search for files, or launch the |
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calculator program. |
Audio playback |
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Press these buttons to play your audio files and |
buttons |
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to adjust the volume. |
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Indicators |
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Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or |
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SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the |
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corresponding key to activate the function. |
Windows keys |
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Press one of these keys to open the Windows |
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Start menu. These keys can also be used in |
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combination with other keys to open utilities |
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like F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer). |
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Application key |
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Press this key to access shortcut menus and |
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help assistants in Windows. |
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Navigation keys |
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Press these keys to move the cursor to the |
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beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the |
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page, down the page, to the beginning of a |
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document, or to the end of a document. Press |
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the arrow keys to move the cursor. |
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Numeric keypad |
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Press these keys to type numbers when the |
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numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on. |
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Standard keyboard features
Function keys |
Navigation keys |
Indicators |
Windows keys Application key Directional keys Numeric keypad
Feature |
Description |
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Function keys |
Press these keys to start program actions. Each program |
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uses different function keys for different purposes. See |
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the program documentation to find out more about the |
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function key actions. |
Navigation keys |
Press these keys to move the cursor to the beginning of |
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a line, to the end of a line, up the page, down the page, |
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to the beginning of a document, or to the end of a |
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document. |
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Indicators |
Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK keys are |
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activated. Press the corresponding key to activate the |
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function. |
Windows keys |
Press to open the Windows Start menu. These keys can |
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also be used in combination with other keys to open |
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utilities like F (Find/Search), R (Run utility), and |
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E (Computer). |
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Application key |
Press this key to access shortcut menus and help |
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assistants in Windows. |
Directional keys |
Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or |
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left. |
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Numeric keypad |
Press these keys to type numbers when the numeric |
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keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on. |
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23
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Using the mouse
Scroll wheel |
Right button |
Left button
The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer screen. This illustration shows the standard mouse.
As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction.
You can use the left and right buttons on the mouse to select objects on the screen.
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You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through a document. This feature is not available in all programs.
To... |
Do this... |
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Move the pointer |
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Move the mouse around. If you |
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on the screen |
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reach the edge of your mouse |
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pad and need to move the |
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mouse farther, lift the mouse |
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and place it in the middle of the |
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mouse pad, then continue |
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moving the mouse. |
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Select an object |
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Position the pointer over the |
on the screen |
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object. Quickly press and |
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release the left mouse button. |
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This is called clicking. |
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Start a program or open a file or folder
Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the left mouse button twice. This is called double-clicking.
Access a |
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Position the pointer over the |
shortcut menu |
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object. Quickly press and |
or find more |
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release the right mouse button |
information |
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once. This is called |
about an object |
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right-clicking. |
on the screen. |
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Move an object |
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Position the pointer over the |
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on the screen. |
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object. Press the left mouse |
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button and hold it down. Move |
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(drag) the object to the |
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appropriate part of the screen. |
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Release the button to drop the |
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object where you want it. This is |
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called clicking and dragging. |
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For more information about how to adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, right-hand or left-hand configuration, and other mouse settings, see the “Customizing Windows” chapter in your online User Guide. For instructions on how to clean the mouse, see “Cleaning the mouse” on page 71.
25
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Using optical drives
Features
Your optical drive has the following basic components:
Disc tray
Manual eject hole
Activity indicator
Eject button
Loading an optical disc
To insert an optical disc:
1 Press the eject button on the optical disc drive.
Important
When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure that the label side is facing up or out. If the disc has two playable sides, place the disc so the name of the side you want to play is facing up or out.
2Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up or out.
3Press the eject button to close the tray.
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Identifying optical drive types
Your computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive’s disc tray for one or more of the following logos:
If your optical drive has |
Your drive type |
Use your drive for... |
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this logo... |
is... |
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CD |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, and accessing data. |
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CD-RW |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, accessing data, and |
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creating CDs. |
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DVD/CD-RW |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, accessing data, |
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creating CDs, and playing DVDs. |
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DVD |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, playing DVDs, and |
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accessing data. |
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DVD+RW |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, playing DVDs, |
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accessing data, and recording |
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video and data to CDs and |
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DVD+R or DVD+RW discs. |
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DVD RW/R |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, playing DVDs, |
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accessing data, and recording |
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video and data to CDs and |
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DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and |
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DVD-RW discs. |
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Double layer |
Installing programs, playing |
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DVD+RW |
audio CDs, playing DVDs, |
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accessing data, and recording |
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video and data to CDs and |
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double layer DVD+R discs. |
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Note: To use the double layer |
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capability of the double layer |
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recordable DVD drive, the blank |
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DVDs you purchase must state |
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Double Layer, Dual Layer, or DL. |
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Using other types of blank |
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media will result in less |
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capacity. |
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
If your optical drive has |
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is... |
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DVD-RAM/-RW |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, playing DVDs, |
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RECORDER |
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accessing data, and recording |
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video and data to CDs and |
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DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW |
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discs. |
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Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, playing DVDs, |
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playing Blu-ray Discs, accessing |
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data, and recording video and |
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data to CDs, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, |
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DVD-RW, and Blu-ray discs. |
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HD-DVD |
Installing programs, playing |
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audio CDs, playing DVDs and |
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HD-DVDs, accessing data, and |
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recording video and data to |
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CDs, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, |
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Playing discs
Playing a CD
Important
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer.
A standard CD (compact disc) can hold an entire album of digital songs and can be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive.
Use a music program or Windows Media Player on your computer to:
•Play music CDs
•Create MP3 music files from your music CDs
•Edit music track information
•Use your music files to build a music library
For more information about playing CDs, see your online User Guide.
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www.gateway.com
Playing a DVD
A DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies, several albums of music, or several gigabytes of data can fit on a single disc. DVDs can be played on a DVD player or a DVD drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing DVDs, see your online User Guide.
Playing a Blu-ray Disc
A Blu-ray Disc is a high-capacity optical disc that can store much more data than a DVD. A dual-layer Blu-ray Disc can hold 50 GB of files, about 23 hours of standard-definition video, or about nine hours of high-definition video. Blu-ray Discs can be played on a Blu-ray-compatible player or a Blu-ray drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing Blu-ray Discs, see your online User Guide.
Playing an HD-DVD
A HD-DVD is a high-capacity optical disc that can store much more data than a DVD. A dual-layer HD-DVD can hold 30 GB of files, about 14 hours of standard-definition video, or about 5.5 hours of high-definition video. HD-DVDs can be played on an HD-DVD-compatible player or an HD-DVD drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing HD-DVDs, see your online User Guide.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Creating discs
Recording to optical discs
You can use the disc burning program on your computer to copy tracks from a music CD to your hard drive, copy or create data discs, create music CDs, create video DVDs, and more. For more information about creating CDs and DVDs, see your online User Guide.
Creating audio and video files
You can create audio and music files, either from scratch or from music CDs. You can also create video files from home video. For more information, see your online User Guide.
Copying optical discs
You can copy optical discs to make backups of your data. For more information, see your online User Guide.
Using the memory card reader
You can use the optional memory card reader to transfer pictures from a digital camera to your computer. You can also use the memory card reader to transfer data between your computer and a device that uses memory cards, such as a PDA, MP3 player, or cellular telephone.
Memory card types
The memory card reader supports several memory card types. To determine which types are supported by your card reader and the slots to use for each type of card, examine the face plate of the reader. Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, E: and F:), so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.
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Using a memory card
Caution
Before inserting a memory card into a slot, make sure that the slot is empty, or you could damage the card reader.
To insert a memory card:
1Insert the memory card into the appropriate memory card slot.
2To access a file on the memory card, click Start, then click My Computer. Double-click the drive (for example, the E: drive), then double-click the file name.
To remove a memory card:
•Wait for the memory card reader access indicator to stop blinking, then pull the memory card out of the slot.
Caution
Do not remove the memory card or turn off the computer while the memory card reader access indicator is blinking. You could lose data. Also, remove the memory card from the reader before you turn off the computer.
Important
Do not use the safely remove hardware icon in the taskbar to remove the memory card, or you will have to restart the computer to re-enable the memory card reader.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Using the diskette drive
The optional diskette drive uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called floppy disks). Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer.
Drive activity light
Diskette slot
Eject button
To load a diskette:
1Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up or to the right.
2To access a file on the diskette, click Start, then click My Computer. Double-click the diskette drive (for example, the A: drive), then double-click the file name.
3To remove the diskette, make sure that the drive activity light is off, then press the eject button.
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Adjusting the volume
You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls, your keyboard controls, or the Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of specific sound devices in your computer.
To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls:
•If you are using external speakers, turn the knob on the front of the speakers.
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Use the mute and volume control buttons on the keyboard. For more information, see “Using the keyboard” on page 19.
To adjust the volume from Windows:
1Double-click the speaker icon on the taskbar. The volume control slider opens.
2Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and down to decrease volume.
3To mute the volume, click Mute. To restore volume, click it again.
4Click × in the top-right corner of the window to close it.
Installing a printer, scanner, or other device
Important
Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the device documentation and installation instructions.
Your computer has one or more of the following ports:
IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire®), Universal Serial Bus (USB), serial, and parallel. Use these ports to connect peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras to your computer. For more information about port locations, see “Checking Out Your Computer” on page 5.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and hot-swapping, which means that your computer will usually recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the appropriate port. When you use an IEEE 1394 or USB device for the first time, your computer will prompt you to install any software the device needs. After doing this, you can disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.
Help
For more information about installing peripheral devices, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type installing devices in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
Parallel and serial port devices are not plug-and-play. See the device documentation for detailed information and installation instructions.
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CHAPTER4
Upgrading Your Computer
•Preventing static electricity discharge
•Opening and closing the case
•Removing and installing the front bezel
•Replacing an optical or diskette drive, or a card reader
•Replacing the hard drive
•Installing memory
•Adding or replacing an expansion card
•Replacing the front fan
•Replacing the front I/O board
•Replacing the processor
•Replacing the system battery
•Replacing the power supply
•Replacing the system board
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