Gateway E-6100 User Manual
Your Gateway Computer
E-6100 user's guide
Customizing
Troubleshooting
Contents
1 Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Identifying your model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Gateway model number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Gateway serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Finding your specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2 Setting Up Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Starting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Restarting (rebooting) your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Working safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Setting up your computer and computer accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Sitting at your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
HelpSpot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Searching for a topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
HelpSpot videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Do More With Gateway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Using eSupport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4 Using Drives and Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Using the diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Using the CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Inserting a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Creating CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Copying a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
i
Creating a data CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Copying music tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Creating a music CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Advanced features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
5 Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Protecting your computer from viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Using Disk Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Using the Scheduled Task Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Cleaning the monitor screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Power management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Using power saving modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Changing power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Changing the power scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Changing advanced power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Activating and using Hibernate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Setting up an uninterruptible power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
6 Restoring Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
Using the Restoration CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Reinstalling device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Updating device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Reinstalling programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Reinstalling Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
7 Upgrading Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Selecting a place to work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Gathering the tools you need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Opening the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
Adding or replacing a diskette, CD, or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
ii
Adding or replacing a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Adding or replacing add-in cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Replacing the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Replacing the system board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Replacing the system battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
8 Using the BIOS Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Opening the BIOS Setup utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Updating the BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Setting the BIOS configuration jumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
9 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Software support tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Add-in cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
CD or DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Cleaning CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Before calling Gateway Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Tutoring and training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
iii
A E-6100 Technical Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .156
System board layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157
Section 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .158
Section 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .159
BIOS configuration jumper settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160
System board specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161
B Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
iv
Checking Out
Your Gateway
E-6100 Computer
This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your
Gateway E-6100 computer. Read this chapter to learn:
■ How to identify the features of your Gateway
computer
■ How to locate your computer’s model and serial
number
■ How to locate the Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity
■ How to locate the specifications for your computer
■ What accessories are available for your computer
1
1
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer
Front
Your computer may contain any of the following components.
CD/DVD/recordable drive
5.25-inch drive bay cover
Diskette drive
CD/DVD eject button
5.25-inch drive bay cover
Diskette eject button
IEEE 1394 port
(optional)
Power button
USB ports
3.5-inch drive bay cover
2
www.gateway.com
Component Icon Description
Front
CD/DVD/recordable
drive
5.25-inch drive bay
cover
Diskette drive Use this drive to store smaller files on diskettes. For more
IEEE 1394 port
(optional)
Power button Press this button to turn the power on or off. You can also
CD/DVD eject button Press this button to open the CD or DVD drive tray.
Diskette eject button Press this button to eject an inserted diskette.
Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install games and
programs, watch DVDs, and store large files onto recordable
CDs and DVDs (depending on drive type). For more
information, see “Using the CD or DVD drive” on page 34.
This drive may be a CD, CD-RW, DVD, DVD+RW, or
DVD-RAM/-RW/CD-RW drive. To identify your drive type and
for more information about your drive, see “Identifying drive
types” on page 34.
Remove this cover to install an additional 5.25-inch drive.
information, see “Using the diskette drive” on page 32.
®
Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire
device (such as a digital video camera) into this 4-pin
IEEE 1394 port.
configure the power button to operate in Standby/Resume
mode or Hibernate mode. For more information on changing
the power button setting, see “Power management” on
page 70.
or i.Link®)
USB ports USB 2.0 Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a digital
camera) into these ports.
The front USB ports are USB v2.0.
Any USB device will work in any USB port.
3.5-inch drive bay
cover
Remove this cover to install an additional 3.5-inch drive.
www.gateway.com
3
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer
Back
Your computer may contain any of the following components.
Product label
Power connector
Voltage switch
Microsoft Certificate
of Authenticity
PS/2 mouse port
PS/2 keyboard port
USB ports
Serial port
Parallel port
Kensington lock slot
Case cover
shipping screw
USB ports
TV jack
Modem jack
(optional)
Headphone/analog
speakers (Line out 1) jack
(optional)
IEEE 1394 port
(optional)
Rear out
(Line out 2) jack
(optional)
4
Ethernet
(network) jack
Monitor port
Add-in card retention
thumbscrew
Microphone jack (optional)
Digital speakers (Digital out)
jack (optional)
Audio input (Line in) jack
(optional)
www.gateway.com
Component Icon Description
Product label Your computer’s serial and model number.
Power connector Plug the power cable into this connector.
Voltage switch Before turning on your computer, make sure that this
switch is in the correct position for the correct voltage. The
switch is preset at the factory with the correct voltage for
your area.
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.
Back
Microsoft Certificate of
Authenticity
PS/2 mouse port Plug a Personal System/2
PS/2 keyboard port Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port.
USB ports USB 1.1
USB 2.0
Serial port Plug a serial device (such as a digital camera) into this
Parallel port Plug a parallel device (such as a printer) into this port.
TV jack Plug a television into this port.
Modem jack
(optional)
The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity (COA) contains
your Windows product key.
®
(PS/2) mouse into this port.
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a
mouse, keyboard, or printer) into these ports.
The rear USB ports are both USB v1.1 and USB v2.0.
Look at the icons on the rear ports to determine which are
USB v1.1 and which are USB v2.0.
Any USB device will work in any USB port.
port.
Plug a modem cable into this jack.
www.gateway.com
5
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer
Component Icon Description
Headphone/analog
speakers (Line out 1)
jack
(optional)
IEEE 1394 port
(optional)
Rear out (Line out 2)
jack
(optional)
Kensington™ lock slot Secure your computer to an object by connecting a
Case cover shipping
screw
Ethernet (network) jack Plug a 10/100 Ethernet network cable or a device (such
Monitor port Plug a monitor into this port.
Add-in card retention
thumbscrew
Microphone jack
(optional)
Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external
amplifier, or headphones into this jack. This jack is
color-coded green.
Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire or i.Link)
device (such as a scanner or hard drive) into this 6-pin
IEEE 1394 port.
Plug powered, analog rear speakers or an external
amplifier into this jack. This jack is color-coded black.
Kensington cable lock to this slot.
Remove this screw before opening the case.
as a DSL or cable modem) into this jack.
Remove this screw when adding or replacing add-in cards.
Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is color-coded
red or pink.
Digital speakers
(Digital out) jack
(optional)
Audio input (Line in)
jack
(optional)
6
Plug digital speakers into this jack. You can also use this
jack for an analog center speaker or analog subwoofer.
This jack is color-coded orange.
Plug an external audio input source (such as a stereo) into
this jack so you can record sound on your computer. This
jack is color-coded blue.
www.gateway.com
Identifying your model
Identifying your model
Important The labels shown in this section are for informational
purposes only. Label information varies by model, features
ordered, and location.
Gateway model number
The label on the back of your computer case contains information that
identifies your computer model. The label also contains your serial number.
Gateway Technical Support will need this information if you call for assistance.
Gateway serial number
You can locate the Gateway serial number:
■ Printed on a white sticker on the front or top of your computer case.
■ Printed on the customer invoice that came with your computer. The
invoice also contains your customer ID number.
■ Displayed in HelpSpot in Windows XP. Click Start, Help and Support, then
View product serial number.
click
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity
The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the back or side of your
computer case includes the product key code for your operating system.
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Finding your specifications
Finding your specifications
For more information about your computer, such as memory size, memory type,
and hard drive size, go to the
eSupport page at support.gateway.com
additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications.
In Windows XP, view your computer’s serial number or check your
specifications by clicking
My Computer Info link in HelpSpot or visit Gateway’s
. The eSupport page also has links to
Start, Help and Support, then clicking My Computer Info.
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer
You can also find out more about your computer at the Gateway eSupport site.
Visit support.gateway.com
page 29.
. For more information, see “Using eSupport” on
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Accessories
Gateway offers various accessories that can help you make the most of using
your computer. To order accessories, visit the Accessory Superstore at
accessories.g
Networking kit
With a networking kit, you can network (link) two or more computers in your
home. After you have set up a “home” network, you can access the files, drives,
and printers on linked computers, play multiplayer games, and even share one
Internet connection.
Two types of networking kits are available. Wireless networking kits use radio
frequency to link your computers wirelessly. Ethernet networking kits use
network cabling to link your computers.
Imaging equipment
A digital camera lets you take pictures that you can view and edit on your
computer.
A digital video camera lets you take videos and pictures that you can view and
edit on your computer.
ateway.com.
Accessories
A scanner copies an image, such as a graphic or document, then stores the copy
in a file.
You can attach your digital photographs or scanned images to e-mail messages
or post them on a Web site.
Printers
You can attach almost any type of printer to your computer. The most common
types are inkjet and laser printers, which print in color or in black and white.
Inkjet printers and cartridges are relatively inexpensive, but they are slower than
laser printers. Using an inkjet color printer, you can print pictures, banners,
and greeting cards, as well as documents.
Laser printers and cartridges are more expensive, but they usually print much
faster than inkjet printers. Laser printers are better than inkjet printers when
you are printing large documents.
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway E-6100 Computer
Storage Devices
If you need additional storage space or you want to back up your files, you
can add storage devices to you computer.
With a re cor dab le CD or DVD dr ive , yo u can free up h ard dri ve space by backi ng
up files, then removing them from your hard drive. Writable CDs can hold as
much as 700 MB of data. Writable DVDs can hold as much as 4.7 GB of data.
For more information about using recordable drives, see “Creating CDs and
DVDs” on page 37.
Iomega Zip drives, like diskette drives, use disks to store data. Zip disks can store
100 MB, 250 MB, or 750 MB of data. You can use a Zip drive to back up files
you do not use so you can remove them from your hard drive. Zip drives also
provide an easy way to transfer files between computers (if both computers have
internal Zip drives or if you have one external, portable Zip drive).
If you need to back up your entire system, you probably need a tape backup
(TBU) drive. TBU drives, like tape recorders, use magnetic tape cartridges to store
data. Tape drive cartridges can store 2 GB, 20 GB, 40 GB, 130 GB, or more of
data.
If you want to increase your internal storage space, try adding a second hard
drive or replacing your existing hard drive with a larger drive. For more
information about installing a larger drive, see “Adding or replacing a hard
drive” on page 100.
Memory
Large programs, such as multimedia games or graphics programs, use a lot of
memory. If your programs are running more slowly than you think they should,
try adding more memory. For more information, see “Installing memory” on
page 115.
Uninterruptible power supplies
A standby, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) protects your computer from
data loss during a total power failure. A UPS uses a battery to keep your
computer running temporarily during a power failure so you can save your work
and shut down your computer correctly. A UPS may also provide protection
from power surges. For information, see “Setting up an uninterruptible power
supply” on page 76.
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Setting Up Your
Computer
This chapter provides basic information about your
Gateway computer. Read this chapter to learn how to:
■ Use your computer safely
■ Start and turn off your computer
■ Restart (reboot) your computer
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Chapter 2: Setting Up Your Computer
Protecting from power source problems
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.
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 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.
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. For more
information, see “Setting up an uninterruptible power supply” on page 76.
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Starting your computer
To start your computer:
1 Connect the cables to your computer using the setup poster.
2 Turn on the monitor.
3 Turn on your computer and speakers.
4 If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen
instructions to set up your computer.
5 Turn on any peripheral devices, such as printers or scanners, and see the
documentation that came with the device for setup instructions.
Starting your computer
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Chapter 2: Setting Up Your Computer
Turning off your computer
Tips & Tricks 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.
To turn off your computer in Windows XP:
1 Click Start, then click Turn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog box
opens.
2 Click Turn Off. Windows shuts down and turns off your computer.
Important If for some reason you cannot use the Turn Off Computer
option in Windows to turn off your computer, press and
hold the power button for about five seconds, then
release it.
To turn off your computer in Windows 2000:
1 Click Start, then click Shut Down. The Shut Down Windows dialog box opens.
2 Click the arrow button to open the What do you want your computer to do
list, then click
Shut down.
3 Click OK. Windows shuts down and turns off your computer.
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.
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Restarting (rebooting) your computer
Restarting (rebooting) your
computer
If your computer does not respond to keyboard or mouse input, you may have
to close programs that are not responding. If closing unresponsive programs
does not restore your computer to normal operation, you may have to restart
(reboot) your computer.
To close unresponsive programs and restart your computer:
1 Press CTRL+ALT+DEL, then click Task Manager. The Task Manager window
opens.
2 Click the Applications tab, then click the program that is not responding.
3 Click End Task.
4 If your computer does not respond, turn it off, wait ten seconds and turn
it on again.
Important If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the
power button for about five seconds, then release it.
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Chapter 2: Setting Up Your Computer
Working safely
Before using your computer, read the following recommendations for setting
up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain.
Hands and
arms are
parallel to
the floor
Top of screen is not
higher than eye level
Screen is
perpendicular to
your line of sight
Feet are flat on the floor
Reducing eye strain
Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the monitor 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 on
your monitor.
■ Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use your computer
in a dark room.
■ Avoid focusing your eyes on your computer screen for long periods of time.
Look away from your computer occasionally, and try to focus on distant
objects.
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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 a keyboard drawer.
■ 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.
Working safely
Setting up your computer and computer accessories
■ Set up the monitor so the top is no higher than eye level, the monitor
controls are within reach, and the screen is tilted to be perpendicular to
your line of sight.
■ Place your keyboard and mouse at a comfortable distance. You should be
able to reach them without stretching.
■ Set paper holders at the same height and distance as the monitor.
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Chapter 2: Setting Up Your Computer
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.
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Getting Help
This chapter tells you about additional information
resources available to help you use your computer. Read
this chapter to learn how to access:
■ HelpSpot™
■ Do More With Gateway
■ Online help
■ Gateway Web site
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Chapter 3: Getting Help
HelpSpot
Your computer may include HelpSpot, an easily accessible collection of help
information, troubleshooters, instructional videos, and automated support. Use
HelpSpot to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover
and use the many features of your Gateway computer. HelpSpot also has an
area called Who to contact for help that helps you find the right resource at
Gateway to answer your questions or help solve your problems.
To start HelpSpot in Windows XP:
■ Click Start, then click Help and Support. HelpSpot opens.
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If this is the first time you have started HelpSpot, you may experience a
brief wait while HelpSpot builds the help database, then HelpSpot displays
an introductory video.
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HelpSpot
You can find help information by clicking a link, performing a search, or
browsing the index. To learn about using your Gateway computer, your mouse,
and other tasks, click the
Using your Gateway computer link on the HelpSpot main
page.
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Chapter 3: Getting Help
Searching for a topic
To search for a topic in HelpSpot, type a word or phrase (keyword) in the Search
box located at the top of any HelpSpot screen, then click the arrow button.
Search box
Search results
Search results
header
headers
For each search, you receive the following search result types:
■ Suggested Topics - These topics are located in HelpSpot and are relevant
to your search topic.
■ Full-text Search Matches - These topics are located in HelpSpot and contain
the words you entered in the
Search box.
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■ Microsoft Knowledge Base - These topics are located on the Microsoft Web
site and contain the words you entered in the
Search box. You must be
connected to the Internet to search for and access these topics.
■ Gateway.com Search - These topics are located on the Gateway Web site
and contain the words you entered in the
Search box. You must be
connected to the Internet to search for and access these topics.
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