Gateway E-6610D, E-6610Q, S-5615 Quick Start Manual

USER GUIDE

Gateway Computer

www.gateway.com

Contents

Chapter 1: Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Thank you for purchasing our computer! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Using the Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Using Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Using Help and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Searching for a topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Using Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Finding your model and serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Finding the Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Chapter 2: Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Working safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Setting up your computer and computer accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Sitting at your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Checking the voltage selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Starting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Waking up your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Restarting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Enhanced keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Standard keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Connecting the dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Connecting to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . 21

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Chapter 3: Using Windows XP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Using the Windows desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Using the Start menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Adding icons to the desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Identifying window items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Working with files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Viewing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Creating folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Copying and moving files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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Deleting files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Searching for files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Using the Windows Search utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Browsing for files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Working with documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Creating a new document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Saving a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Opening a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Printing a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Using Windows shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Chapter 4: Using the Internet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Learning about the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Setting up an Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Accessing your Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Using the World Wide Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Connecting to a Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Downloading files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Using e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Sending e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Checking your e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Chapter 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Installing Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Configuring Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Setting up your cover page template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Sending a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Sending a quick fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Faxing from programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Faxing a scanned document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Automatically retry sending a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Canceling a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Receiving and viewing a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Chapter 6: Using Your Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Using the diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Using the CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Inserting a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Connecting a projector or monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Connecting a television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

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Modifying television settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Connecting a video camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Installing an uninterruptible power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Contents

Chapter 7: Using Your Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Playing music and movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Playing WAV audio files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Playing audio and video files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Creating audio files and music libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Creating music files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Building a music library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Editing music file information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Creating and editing videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Editing videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Transferring your video to your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Editing your video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Saving your video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Creating music CDs and video DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Creating a music CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Creating a video DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Creating and copying data CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Creating a data CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Copying a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Using advanced multimedia features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Recording audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Chapter 8: Customizing Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Adjusting the screen and desktop settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Adjusting the color depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Adjusting the screen resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Changing the colors on your Windows desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Changing the desktop background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Selecting a screen saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Changing the mouse settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Using an extended desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Adjusting power-saving settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Changing the power scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Activating and using Hibernate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Chapter 9: Networking Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Introducing networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Using a router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Creating an Ethernet network 103

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Installing Ethernet cards and drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Making sure your broadband connection works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Naming your computers and workgroup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Configuring the TCP/IP protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Setting up an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Testing your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Sharing resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Sharing drives and printers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Using the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Viewing shared drives and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Mapping a network drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Opening files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Copying files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Printing files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Adding a printer to your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Chapter 10: Protecting Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Securing your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Using the Kensington lock slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Securing your data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Using startup and hard drive passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Using Windows user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Setting limits with user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Protecting your computer from viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Using Windows XP Security Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Updating Windows XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Chapter 11: Recovering Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Understanding system recovery options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Recovering specific files and software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Recovering your system using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Recovering your system from the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Chapter 12: Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Scheduling maintenance tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

www.gateway.com

Transferring files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Transferring Internet settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Installing your old printer or scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Installing your old programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Contents

Chapter 13: Adding and Replacing Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Opening the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Removing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Removing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Replacing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Replacing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Replacing the system battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Replacing a CD, DVD, or diskette drive, or a memory card reader . . . . . . . 148

Adding or replacing a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Replacing the front fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Replacing the rear fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Replacing the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Replacing the heat sink and processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

Replacing the I/O panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Adding or replacing an expansion card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Replacing the system board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Chapter 14: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Solving problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Add-in cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176

Mouse 177

Contents www.gateway.com

Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Appendix A: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

CHAPTER 1

Getting Help

• Thank you for purchasing our computer!

• Using the Gateway Web site

•Using Help and Support

• Using Online help

• Finding your model and serial number

• Finding the Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

CHAPTER 1: Getting Help www.gateway.com

Thank you for purchasing our computer!

You have made an excellent decision choosing Gateway. We are sure that you

will be pleased with the outstanding quality, reliability, and performance of your

new computer. Each and every Gateway computer uses the latest technology

and passes through the most stringent quality control tests to ensure that you

are provided with the best product possible.

Please read this manual carefully to familiarize yourself with our range of

services and support. We have highlighted some basic care and safety

information to help you keep your computer in good operating condition.

Gateway stands behind our value proposition to our customers — to provide

best-of-class service and support in addition to high-quality, brand-name

components at affordable prices. If you ever have a problem, our

knowledgeable, dedicated customer service department will provide you with

fast, considerate service.

We sincerely hope that you will receive the utmost satisfaction and enjoyment

from your new Gateway computer for years to come.

Thanks again, from all of us at Gateway.

Using the Gateway Web site

Gateway's online support is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and

provides the most current drivers, product specifications, tutorials, and

personalized information about your computer. Visit the Gateway Web support

site at www.gateway.com/support

www.gateway.com

Using Support

Using the Gateway Web site

The Support site is divided into seven major areas:

■ Support Home

■ Product Support

■ Downloads

■ Customer Service

■ Upgrade Center

■ Resources

■ Contact Us

Support Home

Click Support Home, then click Desktops. To view support documents for your computer, type your serial number in the Serial Number box, then click Submit.

Click the arrow button to open the Select Your Computer Product box, then click Desktop Computers to access product documentation, specifications, and guides for all Gateway computers.

Product Support

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

Downloads

Click Downloads to get the latest software updates for BIOS and driver upgrades. By entering your serial number you get drivers specific to your computer. Click Browse All Downloads to walk through a step-by-step wizard to locate your drivers.

Customer Service

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

Upgrade Center

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

Resources

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

Click Contact Us to access links to Customer Care with a live technician, including chat and e-mail. Click Call Us to get a list of Gateway telephone numbers for both sales and support. For more information, see “Telephone

support” on page 180.

CHAPTER 1: Getting Help www.gateway.com

Using Help and Support

Your computer includes Help and Support, an easily accessible collection of help

information, troubleshooters, and automated support. Use Help and Support

to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and use

the many features of your Gateway computer.

To start Help and Support:

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

Searching for a topic

Using Help and Support, you can find help information by clicking a link,

performing a search, or browsing the index.

To search for a topic in Help and Support, type a word or phrase (keyword) in

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

the arrow button.

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

■ Suggested Topics—These topics are located in Help and Support and are

relevant to your search topic.

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

and contain the words you entered in the Search box.

■ 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.

To view a list of your search results, click the results header for the type of results

you want to view.

To view a topic, click the topic name in the Search Results list.

www.gateway.com

Using Online help

Many programs provide information online so you can research a topic or learn how to perform a task while you are using the program. You can access most online help information by selecting a topic from a Help menu or by clicking a Help button.

Finding your model and serial number

Using Online help

The labels shown in this section are for

informational purposes only. Label

information varies by model, features

Important

ordered, and location.

The label on the side of your computer case includes your computer serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.

CHAPTER 1: Getting Help www.gateway.com

Finding the 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.

CHAPTER 2

Getting Started

•Front

•Back

•Working safely

•Starting your computer

• Turning off your computer

• Restarting your computer

•Using the keyboard

•Using the mouse

• Connecting the dial-up modem

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

• Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

Front

Your computer includes the following components (your computer may differ from the computer shown below).

DVD/CD drive

Spare 5.25-inch drive bay

Spare 3.5-inch drive bay

Memory card reader (optional). This bay can also hold an optional diskette drive.

Power button/power indicator

IEEE 1394 ports (optional on some models)

USB ports

Headphone jack

Microphone jack

Component Icon Description

DVD/CD drive Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install games and programs, watch DVDs, and

store large files onto recordable discs (depending on drive type). This drive may be a CD, recordable CD, DVD, or recordable DVD drive. To identify your drive type and for more information about your drive, see “Identifying drive types”

on page 55.

Spare 3.5-inch external drive bay

Spare 5.25-inch external drive bay

Memory card reader (optional)

Use this drive bay for a memory card reader or other 3.5-inch drive.

Use this drive bay for an additional CD or DVD drive.

Insert a variety of memory cards into this optional memory card reader. For more information, see “Using the memory card reader” on page 56.

www.gateway.com

Front

Component Icon Description

Powe r button/Power indicator

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

USB ports Plug a USB (Universal Serial Bus) device (such as a printer, scanner, camera, keyboard,

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is color-coded red or pink.

Headphone jack Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external amplifier, or headphones into this

Press this button to turn the power on or off. You can also configure the power button to operate in Standby/Resume mode or Hibernate mode. The button lights when the computer is turned on.

or i.Link®) device (such as a digital camcorder) into these 4-pin IEEE 1394 ports. For more information, see “Installing a

printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 22.

or mouse) into these ports. For more information, see “Installing a printer, scanner,

or other peripheral device” on page 22.

jack. This jack is color-coded green.

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

Back

Your computer includes the following components (your computer may differ from the computer shown below).

Power connector

Cover release lever

Case cover thumbscrew

Kensington lock slot

Rear speaker jack

(optional)

Ethernet (network) jack

IEEE 1394 port

Parallel port

Voltage switch

Audio in/side speaker jack

Headphone/front speaker jack Microphone jack

Center/subwoofer jack (optional) S/PDIF optical audio jack (optional)

USB ports

Digital coaxial audio jack (E-6610). Video port (not shown) on E-6300 and E-6500 models.

Modem jack (optional)

Serial port

PS/2 keyboard port

PS/2 mouse port DVI video port (standard on

E-6610, optional on E-6300 and E-6500).

Telephone jack (optional)

www.gateway.com

Back

Component Icon Description

Power connector Plug the power cord into this connector.

Cover release lever Press toward the side of the case to open the computer cover.

Case cover thumbscrew

Kensington lock slot Attach a cable lock to this slot, then attach the cable to a solid object like

Rear speaker jack (black plug) (optional)

Ethernet (network) jack

IEEE 1394 port (optional)

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

Modem jack (optional) Plug a modem cable into this jack.

Voltage switch Before turning on your computer, make sure that this switch is in the

Remove this screw before opening the case.

a desk or table to prevent your computer from being stolen.

Dual-purpose audio jack. Plug your rear right and left speakers into this optional jack. For information on configuring this jack, see “Configuring the audio jacks”

on page 58.

Plug a 10/100 Ethernet network cable or a device (such as a DSL or cable modem for a broadband Internet connection) into this jack. For more information, see “Networking Your Computer” on page 101.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire digital camcorder) into this 4-pin IEEE 1394 port. For more information, see

“Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page22.

information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device”

on page 22.

correct position for the correct power available. 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.

or i.Link®) device (such as a

Audio input (Line in)/side speaker jack (blue)

If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, this jack is user configurable for one of the following: Stereo in: Plug an external audio input source (such as a stereo) into this jack so you can record sound on your computer (Default). Stereo out: Plug your side left and right speakers into this jack. For information on configuring this jack, see “Configuring the audio jacks”

on page 58.

If the back of your computer has three audio jacks, this jack is the audio input (line in) jack. Plug an external audio input source (such as a stereo) into this jack so you can record sound on your computer.

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

Component Icon Description

Headphone/analog speakers jack (green)

-ORFront speakers jack

Microphone jack (red or pink)

Center/subwoofer jack (orange plug) (optional)

S/PDIF optical audio jack (optional)

USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a printer, scanner, camera,

If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, this jack is user configurable for one of the following: Headphone: Plug headphones or amplified speakers into this jack (Default). Stereo out: Plug your front left and right speakers into this jack. For information on configuring this jack, see “Configuring the audio jacks”

on page 58.

If the back of your computer has three audio jacks, this jack is the headphone/analog speaker (line out) jack. Plug powered speakers, an external amplifier, or headphones into this jack.

Plug a microphone into this jack.

Dual-purpose audio jack. Plug your center speaker and subwoofer into this optional jack. For information on configuring this jack, see “Configuring the audio jacks”

on page 58.

Plug a single Toslink™ optical fiber connector into this jack for digital audio. S/PDIF (Sony/Phillips Digital Interface) provides digital audio output from a CD or DVD.

keyboard, or mouse) into these ports. For more information, see “Installing

a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 22.

Digital coaxial audio port (E-6610), or Video port (E-6300 and E-6500)

Serial port Plug a serial device into this port. For more information, see “Installing a

PS/2 keyboard port Plug a PS/2 mouse into this port.

PS/2 mouse port Plug a Personal System/2

DVI video port Plug a digital monitor into this port (E-6610). Optional on some models

Tel ephone jac k (optional)

Plug a single digital coaxial audio connector into this jack for digital audio. Provides digital audio output from a CD or DVD (E-6610)

Plug a monitor into this port (E-6300 and E-6500).

printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page 22.

(PS/2) keyboard into this port.

(E-6300 and E-6500).

Plug a telephone cable into this jack.

www.gateway.com

Working safely

Before using your computer, read the following recommendations for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain.

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

Reducing eye strain

Feet are flat on the floor

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.

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

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.

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.

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.

www.gateway.com

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.

Working safely

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

Warning

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.

modem.

Checking the voltage selection

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. 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.

Caution

A power supply is integrated into your computer to provide power to the system board, add-in cards, and peripheral devices. The voltage selection for your location is typically set at the factory. Use the power selection switch on the back of your computer to set the power supply to 115V or 230V. To verify that your system has the correct setting for your environment, check the voltage selection switch.

To set the voltage selection switch:

■ Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the voltage selection

switch to the correct voltage position.

Vol tage

selection

switch

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

Starting your computer

To start your computer:

1 Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse to your computer. See the

setup poster for setup instructions.

2 Turn on your computer.

3 If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen

instructions to set up your computer.

Your computer has a built-in variable

speed fan. In addition, your computer

uses a powerful processor which

produces heat. Both the system fan and

processor 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.

Important

4 Plug in and turn on any peripheral devices, such as printers or scanners,

and see the documentation that came with the device for setup instructions.

Waking up your computer

When you have not used your computer for several minutes and have not turned off your computer, it may enter a power-saving mode called Standby. While in Standby, the power indicator flashes.

For more information about changing

the power button mode, see “Ad ju st in g

power-saving settings” on page 97.

Tips & Tricks

If your computer is in Standby mode, move the mouse or press the power button to “wake” it up.

T urning off your computer

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

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,

Warning

To turn off your computer:

1 Click Start, then click T urn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog

box opens.

periods.

Important

2 Click Tu r n O f f . Windows shuts down and turns off your computer.

then release it.

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Restarting 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. The Task Mana g e r window opens.

2 Click the Applications tab, then click the program that is not responding. 3 Click End Task . 4 Click X in the top-right corner of the Windows Task Manager dialog box.

5 If your computer does not respond, turn it off, wait ten seconds, then turn

it on again.

Restarting your computer

If your computer does not turn off, press

and hold the power button for about

five seconds, then release it.

Important

Using the keyboard

Enhanced keyboard

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

Function keys

Editing buttons Internet buttons

Audio playback buttons

Navigation keys

Indicators

Internet buttons

Windows keys Application key Directional

keys

The enhanced keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.

Numeric keypa d

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

Feature Icon Description

Editing buttons Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste.

Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for

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

Internet buttons Press these buttons to launch your Internet home page, search, or e-mail programs.

Audio playback buttons

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor to the beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the

Indicators Show if your N

Windows keys Press one of these keys to open the Windows

Application key Press this key to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

Directional keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or left.

Numeric keypad Press these keys to type numbers when the numeric keypad (N

Standard keyboard

Press these buttons to play your audio files and to adjust the volume.

page, down the page, to the beginning of a document, or to the end of a document.

UM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the corresponding

key to activate the function.

Start menu. These keys can also be used in

combination with other keys to open utilities like

E(Explorer utility).

Function keys Navigation keys Indicators

F(Search utility), R(Run utility), and

UM LOCK) is turned on.

Windows keys Application key Directional

keys

Numeric keypa d

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Using the mouse

Feature Description

Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys

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

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor to the beginning of a line, to the end of a line,

up the page, down the page, to the beginning of a document, or to the end of a document.

Using the mouse

Indicators Show if your N

corresponding key to activate the function.

Windows keys Press to open the Windows Start menu. These keys can also be used in combination

with other keys to open utilities like F (Search utility), R (Run utility), and E (Explorer utility).

Application key Press these keys to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

Directional keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or left.

Numeric keypad Press these keys to type numbers when the numeric keypad (N

The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer display. This illustration shows the standard mouse.

UM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the

UM LOCK) is turned on.

Right button

Left button

Scroll wheel

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the display moves in the same direction.

You can us e t h e left and right buttons on the mouse to select objects on the display.

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...

Move the pointer on the computer display

Select an object on the computer display

Start a program or open a file or folder

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

click,

click, click

click

Move the mouse around on the mouse pad. If you run out of space on your mouse pad and need to move the pointer farther, pick up the mouse, set it down in the middle of the mouse pad, then continue moving the mouse.

Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the left mouse button once. This action is called clicking.

Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the left mouse button twice. This action is called double-clicking.

Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the right mouse button once. This action is called right-clicking.

Move an object on the computer display.

click

(hold)

and drag

Position the pointer over the object. Press the left mouse button and hold it down. Move (drag) the object to the appropriate part of the computer display. Release the button to drop the object where you want it.

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Connecting the dial-up modem

For more information about how to

adjust the double-click speed, pointer

configuration, and other mouse settings,

speed, right-hand or left-hand

see “Changing the mouse settings” on

Tips & Tricks

For instructions on how to clean the mouse, see “Cleaning the mouse” on

page 129.

page 95.

Connecting the dial-up modem

If your computer has a dial-up modem installed, connect it to a standard telephone line as follows.

To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26

AWG or larger telecommunications line

Warning

cord.

To connect the modem:

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

of your computer.

2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack. The

modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.

3 Start your computer, then start your communications program.

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

Your computer has a network jack that you can use to connect to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethernet network.

Your computer is equipped with a built-in

For information about setting up a wired

or wireless Ethernet network, see

“Networking Your Computer” on

Important

Ethernet port.

page 101.

To connect to an Ethernet network:

1 Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack on the back

of your computer.

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

modem, or Ethernet jack.

CHAPTER 2: Getting Started www.gateway.com

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device

Before you install a printer, scanner, or

other peripheral device, see the device

documentation and installation

For more information about installing

peripheral devices, click Start, then click

Type the ke ywor d installing devices in

the Search box, then click the arrow.

Help and Support

Important

instructions.

Help and Support.

Your computer may have one or more of the following ports: IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire

or i.Link®), Universal Serial Bus (USB), serial, and parallel. You use these ports to connect peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras to your computer. For more information about port locations, see “Back” on page 10.

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.

Parallel and serial port devices are not plug-and-play. See the device documentation for detailed information and installation instructions.

CHAPTER 3

Using Windows XP

• Using the Windows desktop

• Identifying window items

• Working with files and folders

• Searching for files and folders

• Working with documents

• Using Windows shortcuts

CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP www.gateway.com

Using the Windows desktop

After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop. The desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your personalized work space where you can open programs and perform other tasks.

Your desktop may be different from this example, depending on how your computer is set up.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows desktop, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword Windows desktop in the Search box,

then click the arrow.

Desktop elements

The desktop contains the taskbar, the Start button, and the Recycle Bin icon.

Description

The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the computer display containing the Start button on the left and a clock on the right. Other buttons on the taskbar represent programs that are running. Click a program’s button on the taskbar to open the program’s window.

The Start button provides access to programs, files, help for Windows and other programs, and computer tools and utilities. Click the

Start button, then open a file or program by clicking an item on the menu that opens.

The Recycle Bin is where files, folders, and programs that you discarded are stored. You must empty the Recycle Bin to permanently delete them from your computer. For instructions on how to use the Recycle Bin, see “Deleting files and folders” on page 29.

The Windows Security Center icon may appear on the taskbar near the clock. The icon changes appearance to notify you when the security settings on your computer are set below the recommended value or when updates are available. Double-click this icon to open the Windows Security Center.

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Using the Start menu

Using the Windows desktop

You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for files and folders, and more using the Start menu.

To use the Start menu:

1 Click the Start button on the lower left of the Windows desktop. The Start

menu opens showing you the first level of menu items.

Help and Support

For more information about the

Windows Start menu, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type the

keyword Windows Start menu in the

Search box, then click the arrow.

Adding icons to the desktop

For more information about desktop

icons, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type th e keyword desktop

icons in the Search box, then click the

Help and Support

arrow.

2 Click All Programs to see all programs and files in the Start menu. When

you move the mouse pointer over any menu item that has an arrow next to it, another menu, called a submenu, opens and reveals related files, programs, or commands.

3 Click a file or program to open it.

You may want to add an icon (shortcut) to the desktop for a program that you use frequently.

To add icons to the desktop:

1 Click Start, then click All Programs.

2 Right-click (press the right mouse or touchpad button) the program that

you want to add to the desktop.

3 Click Send To, then click Desktop (create shortcut). A shortcut icon for

that program appears on the desktop.

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Identifying window items

When you double-click the icon for a drive, folder, file, or program, a window opens on the desktop. This example shows the Local Disk (C:) window, which opens after you double-click the Local Disk (C:) icon in the My Computer window.

For more information about the window

items, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type the keywords window

items in the Search box, then click the

Help and Support

arrow.

Window item Description

Title bar

Menu bar

Close Maximize

Minimize

Every program window looks a little different because each has its own menus, icons, and controls. Most windows include these items:

The title bar is the horizontal bar at the top of a window that shows the window title.

Clicking the minimize button reduces the active window to a button on the taskbar. Clicking the program button in the taskbar opens the window again.

Clicking the maximize button expands the active window to fit the entire computer display. Clicking the maximize button again restores the window to its former size.

Clicking the close button closes the active window or program.

Clicking an item on the menu bar starts an action such as Print or Save.

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Working with files and folders

You can organize your files and programs to suit your preferences much like you would store information in a file cabinet. You can store these files in folders and copy, move, and delete the information just as you would reorganize and throw away information in a file cabinet.

Viewing drives

Drives are like file cabinets because they hold files and folders. A computer usually has more than one drive. Each drive has a letter, usually Local Disk (C:) for the hard drive and 3½ Floppy (A:) for the diskette drive. You may also have additional drives, such as CD or DVD drives.

To view the drives on your computer:

■ Click Start, then click My Computer on the Start menu.

Working with files and folders

Hard

drives

Diskette

drive

Disc drive

To see the files and folders on a drive:

■ Double-click the drive icon. If you do not see the contents of a drive after

you double-click its icon, click Show the contents of this drive.

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Creating folders

Folders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They can contain files and other folders.

Files are much like paper documents—letters, spreadsheets, and pictures—that you keep on your computer. In fact, all information on a computer is stored in files.

Folde rs

Files

For more information about creating files

and folders, click Start, then click Help

creating files and folders in the Search

Help and Support

and Support. Type the key word

box, then click the arrow.

To create a folder:

1 Click Start, then click My Computer on the Start menu.

2 Double-click the drive where you want to put the new folder. Typically,

Local Disk (C:) is your hard drive and 3½ Floppy (A:) is your diskette drive. If you do not see the contents of the drive, click Show the contents of

this drive.

3 If you want to create a new folder inside an existing folder, double-click

the existing folder. If you do not see the contents of the drive or folder, click Show the contents of this drive or Show the contents of this

folder.

4 Click File, New, then click Folder. The new folder is created.

5 Type a name for the folder, then press ENTER. The new folder name appears

by the folder icon.

For information about renaming folders, see “Using Windows shortcuts” on

page 37.

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Copying and moving files and folders

The skills you need to copy and move files are called copying, cutting, and pasting.

When you copy and paste a file or folder, you place a copy of the file or folder on the Windows clipboard, which temporarily stores it. Then, when you decide what folder you want the copy to go in (the destination folder), you paste it there.

When you cut and paste a file or folder, you remove the file or folder from its original location and place the file or folder on the Windows clipboard. When you decide where you want the file or folder to go, you paste it there.

Working with files and folders

The clipboard stores whatever you cut or copy until you cut or copy again. Then the

clipboard contains the new information

only. Therefore, you can paste copies of a

file or folder into more than one place,

but as soon as you copy or cut a different

file or folder, the original file or folder is

deleted from the clipboard.

Important

To copy a file or folder to another folder:

1 Locate the file or folder you want to copy. For more information, see

“Viewing drives” on page 27 and “Searching for files and folders” on page 30.

2 Right-click (press the right mouse or touchpad button) the file or folder

that you want to copy. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop.

3 Click Copy on the pop-up menu.

4 Open the destination folder.

5 With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.

6 Click Paste. A copy of the file or folder appears in the new location.

To move a file or folder to another folder:

1 Locate the file or folder you want to move. For more information, see

“Viewing drives” on page 27 and “Searching for files and folders” on page 30.

2 Right-click (press the right mouse or touchpad button) the file or folder

that you want to move. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop.

3 Click Cut on the pop-up menu.

For more information about creating or

moving files and folders, click Start, then

keywo rd creating files and folders or

moving files and folders in the Search

Help and Support

click Help and Support. Type the

box, then click the arrow.

Deleting files and folders

4 Open the destination folder.

5 With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.

6 Click Paste. The file or folder you moved appears in its new location and

is removed from its old location.

When you throw away paper files and folders, you take them from the file cabinet and put them in a trash can. Eventually the trash can is emptied.

In Windows, you throw away files and folders by first moving them to the Windows trash can, called the Recycle Bin, where they remain until you decide to empty the bin.

CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP www.gateway.com

You can recover any file in the Recycle Bin as long as the bin has not been emptied.

To delete files or folders:

For more information about deletin g files

and folders, click Start, then click Help

deleting files and folders in the Search

Help and Support

and Support. Type the key word

box, then click the arrow.

1 In My Computer or Windows Explorer, click the files or folders that you

want to delete. For instructions on how to select multiple files and folders, see “Using Windows shortcuts” on page 37.

If you cannot find the file you want to delete, see “Searching for files and

folders” on page 30.

2 Click File, then click Delete. Windows moves the files and folders to the

Recycle Bin.

To recover files or folders from the Recycle Bin:

1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. The Recycle Bin window opens and lists

the files and folders you have thrown away since you last emptied it.

2 Click the files or folders that you want to restore. For instructions on how

to select multiple files and folders, see “Using Windows shortcuts” on

page 37.

3 Click File, then click Restore. Windows returns the deleted files or folders

to their original locations.

To empty the Recycle Bin:

Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently

erases any files or folders in the bin. These

For more information about emptying

the Recycle Bin, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

emptying Recycle Bi n in the Sear ch box,

files cannot be restored.

Help and Support

Caution

then click the arrow.

1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window

opens.

2 Click File, then click Empty Recycle Bin. Windows asks you if you are sure

that you want to empty the bin.

3 Click Ye s . Windows permanently deletes all files in the Recycle Bin.

Searching for files and folders

If you are looking for a particular file or folder or a set of files or folders that have characteristics in common, but you do not remember where they are stored on your hard drive, you can use the Search utility to search by:

■ Name or part of a name

■ Creation date

■ Modification date

■ File type

■ Text conta ined i n the f ile

■ Time period in which it was created or modified

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You can also combine search criteria to refine searches.

Files and folders found using this utility can be opened, copied, cut, renamed, or deleted directly from the list in the results window.

Using the Windows Search utility

Searching for files and folders

To find files and folders using the Search utility:

1 Click Start, then click Search. The Search Results window opens. Click All

files and folders.

2 If you want to search by file or folder name, type in all or part of the file

or folder name in the name box in the left pane of the window.

■ If you type all of the name, Search will list all files and folders of

that name.

■ If you type part of the name, Search will list all of the file and folder

names containing the letters you typed.

CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP www.gateway.com

3 Click Search. When the search is completed, Windows lists the files and

folders whose names contain the text that you searched for.

4 Open a file, folder, or program by double-clicking the name in the list.

For more information about searching,

click Start, then click Help and Support.

Help and Support

Type the keyword searching in the

Search box, then click the arrow.

Browsing for files and folders

Using advanced search options

Search can find files meeting more criteria than file name. You can narrow your search by selecting the search options that you want. You can search by the:

■ Date the file was created or modified.

■ Size of the file.

■ Type of file, such as a program or a text document.

A file or folder that you need is rarely right on top of your Windows desktop. It is usually on a drive inside a folder that may be inside yet another folder, and so on.

Windows drives, folders, and files are organized in the same way as a real file cabinet in that they may have many levels (usually many more levels than a file cabinet, in fact). So you will usually have to search through levels of folders to find the file or folder that you need. This is called browsing.

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Searching for files and folders

To browse for a file:

1 Click Start, then click My Computer. The My Computer window opens.

2 Double-click the drive or folder that you think contains the file or folder

that you want to find. If you do not see the contents of a folder, click Show the contents of this drive or Show the contents of this folder.

For more information about files and

folders, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type the keyword files and

folders in the Search box, then click the

Help and Support

arrow.

3 Continue double-clicking folders and their subfolders until you find

the file or folder you want.

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Working with documents

Computer documents include word processing files, spreadsheet files, or other similar files. The basic methods of creating, saving, opening, and printing a document apply to most of these types of files.

Creating a new document

The following examples show how to create, save, open, and print a document using Microsoft WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.

For more information about using a program, click Help on its menu bar.

To create a new document:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, then click WordPad. Microsoft

WordPad starts and a blank document opens.

WordPad. Similar procedures apply to other programs such as

2 Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at

the top of the window to format the document.

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Saving a document

Working with documents

After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later.

To save a document:

1 Click File, then click Save. The Save As dialog box opens.

Save in

list

For more information about saving

documents, click Start, then click Help

and Support. Type the keyword saving

in the Search box, then click the arrow.

Help and Support

Opening a document

File

name

2 Click the arrow button to open the Save in list, then click the folder where

you want to save the file. If you do not see the folder you want, browse through the folders listed below the Save in list.

3 Type a new file name in the File name box.

4 Click Save.

To view, revise, or print an existing document, first you need to open it. Open the document in the program that it was created in.

To open a document:

1 Start the program.

2 Click File, then click Open.

CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP www.gateway.com

3 Click the arrow button to open the Look in list, then click the folder you

want to open. If you do not see the folder you want, browse through the folders listed below the Look in list.

Look in list

For more information about opening

files, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type the keyword opening files in the Search box, then click the

Help and Support

Printing a document

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

Help and Support

box, then click the arrow.

4 Double-click the document file name. The document opens.

arrow.

To print a document, you must have a printer connected to your computer or have access to a network printer. For more information about installing or using your printer, see the printer documentation. For information on installing a printer on your network, see “Adding a printer to your network” on page 112.

To print a document:

1 Make sure that the printer is turned on and loaded with paper.

2 Start the program and open the document.

3 Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens.

4 Set the print options, then click OK. The document prints.

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Using Windows shortcuts

The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and almost all programs that run in Windows. For more information about shortcuts, see your Windows or program documentation.

Using Windows shortcuts

For more information about Windows

keybo ard short cuts, clic k Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword Windows keyboard shortcuts in the

Help and Support

Search box, then click the arrow.

To... Do this...

Copy a file, folder, text, or graphic Click the item, then press CTRL + C.

Cut a file, folder, text, or graphic Click the item, then press C

Paste a file, folder, text, or graphic Click inside the folder or window where you want to paste the object,

then press C

Select multiple items in a list or window Click the first item, press and hold down the C

of the remaining items.

Select multiple adjacent items in a list or window

Permanently delete a file or folder Click the file or folder, then press S

Rename a file or folder Click the file or folder, press F2, type the new name, then press ENTER.

Close the active window or program Press A

Switch to a different file, folder, or running program

Click the first item in the list, press and hold down the SHIFT key, then click the last item in the list.

permanently deleted. The file or folder is not stored in the Recycle Bin.

Press ALT + TAB.

TRL + V.

LT + F4.

TRL + X.

TRL key, then click each

HIFT + DELETE. The file or folder is

CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP www.gateway.com

CHAPTER 4

Using the Internet

• Learning about the Internet

• Setting up an Internet account

• Using the World Wide Web

• Using e-mail

CHAPTER 4: Using the Internet www.gateway.com

Learning about the Internet

The Internet is a worldwide network of computers linked together to provide information to people everywhere. The two most popular services on the Internet are e-mail and the World Wide Web. You can access this network by connecting your computer to a telephone, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), or cable television line and signing up with an Internet service provider (ISP).

Internet Servers

store information so other computers can access it from the Internet.

To determ ine if you have an Ethe rnet jack on your computer, see “Back” on page10

Important

or the setup poster.

Your computer connects to the Internet through an ISP.

ISP Servers let you connect to the Internet and access your e-mail messages.

If you want to access the Internet you need:

■ A modem—a device that connects your computer to other computers or

servers using a telephone, DSL, or cable television line. Your computer may have a built-in dial-up telephone modem. Cable and DSL modems connect to your computer through an Ethernet jack and provide a faster connection speed than a standard, dial-up telephone modem.

■ An Internet service provider—a company that provides access to the

Internet through an ISP server. When you connect to an ISP, the ISP server lets you access the Internet and your e-mail messages. Check your telephone book for a list of Internet service providers available locally.

■ A Web browser—a program that displays information from the World

Wide Web. Microsoft Internet Explorer was included with your computer. For more information, see “Using the World Wide Web” on page 41.

■ An e-mail program—a program that lets you create, send, and receive

e-mail messages over the Internet. Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express was included with your computer. For more information, see “Using

e-mail” on page 43.

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Setting up an Internet account

Before you can view the information on the World Wide Web, you need to set up an Internet account with an Internet service provider (ISP). To set up an ISP service or to transfer an existing account to this computer, contact the ISP directly.

Dial-up Internet connections are those using a telephone system to connect to the Internet. This may include ordinary analog telephone lines, ISDN connections, and in some cases ADSL over PPP or other technologies. Because dial-up connections are designed to be temporary connections to the Internet, dial-up charges (with both your telephone company and Internet service provider) often increase the longer you connect to the Internet. To minimize the cost for dial-up Internet users, we suggest that you only connect to the Internet during your e-mail and Web browsing session, then disconnect when you are finished. Your Internet service provider can provide instructions on how to connect to and disconnect from the Internet.

Cable and DSL modems, connections known as broadband, use your cable television or special telephone lines to connect to your ISP and access the Internet. In many instances, broadband is considered an always-connected service. With this type of service, your cost is the same regardless of the amount of time you use your Internet connection.

Setting up an Internet account

Accessing your Internet account

For general information about using

Internet accounts, click Start, then click

Help and Suppor t. Type the keyword ISP

in the Search box, then click the arrow.

Help and Support

The method you use to access your Internet account varies from ISP to ISP. Contact your ISP for the correct procedure.

Using the World WideWeb

The World Wide Web is a multimedia window to the Internet that gives you access to millions of information sources.

Information on the Web comes to you on Web pages, which are electronic documents that you view using a Web page display program called a browser. You can use any of the commercially available Web browsers, like Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.

Web pages can contain text, animations, music, and other multimedia features. A group of related Web pages is called a Web site. You can access Web sites to shop, track investments, read the news, download programs, and much more.

You can explore a Web site, or visit other Web sites, by clicking areas on a Web page called links or hyperlinks. A link may be colored or underlined text, a picture, or an animated image. You can identify a link by moving the mouse or touchpad pointer over it. If the pointer changes to a hand, the item is a link.

CHAPTER 4: Using the Internet www.gateway.com

To learn more about using the Web browser features, click Help in the menu bar.

Link

Web

page

Linked Web

page

Connecting to a Web site

For general information about using

Internet accounts, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

connecting to Web site in the Search

Help and Support

box, then click the arrow.

After you set up an account with an Internet service provider (ISP), you can access the many information sources on the World Wide Web.

To connect to a Web site:

1 Connect to your Internet account.

2 Depending on the method you use to connect to your Internet account,

you may need to start your Web browser. Click Start, then click Internet. Your default Web browser opens showing an opening page or welcome screen.

3 To go to a different Web site, type the address (called a URL for “Universal

Resource Locator”) in the browser address bar (for example

www.gateway.com), then click GO on the browser address bar.

- OR -

On the current Web page, click a link to a Web site.

The Web browser locates the server computer on the Internet, downloads (transfers) data to your computer, and displays the page on the site that you requested.

To protect your children from accessing objectionable Web sites, use the Parental Control feature in McAfee SecurityCenter.

Tips & Tricks

Sometimes Web pages display slowly. The speed that a Web page displays on your screen depends on the complexity of the Web page and other Internet conditions. Additionally, the speed of your connection will determine how fast Web pages display.

www.gateway .com

Downloading files

Using e-mail

Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the Internet

to your computer.

To protect your computer against viruses,

make sure that you scan the files you download. For more information, see

“Protecting your computer from viruses”

For information about down loading files, click Start, then click Help and Support.

Type the keyword downloading files in

the Search box, then click the arrow.

Help and Support

Caution

on page 115.

To download files or programs from a Web site:

1 Connect to your Internet account.

2 In the address bar, type the address of the Web site that contains the file

or program you want to download, then click GO on the browser address bar.

- OR -

Click a link on a Web page to navigate to the Web site containing the file that you want to download.

3 Create or locate the folder where you want to store the file on your

computer. For more information, see “Working with files and folders” on

page 27.

4 Click the link on the Web page for the file that you want to download.

5 Follow the on-screen instructions for saving the file in the folder that you

want. A copy of the file is downloaded to your computer. The time that it takes to transfer the file to your computer depends on file size and Internet conditions.

6 Open the folder that you created.

7 Install or view the downloaded file by double-clicking it. If applicable,

follow the instructions provided on the Web site to run or install the program.

Using e-mail

E-mail (electronic mail) lets you send messages to anyone who has an Internet connection and e-mail address. E-mail is usually a free service of your Internet account.

The Internet never closes, so you can send e-mail messages at any time. Your e-mail messages arrive at most e-mail addresses in minutes.

An e-mail address consists of a user name, the @ symbol, and the Internet domain name of the Internet service provider (ISP) or company that “hosts” that user. Your e-mail address is assigned when you sign up for an account with an ISP. For example, a person with an account with Hotmail might have an e-mail address that is similar to this one:

jdoe@hotmail.com

User name Internet domain name

CHAPTER 4: Using the Internet www.gateway.com

Sending e-mail

To send e-mail using Outlook or Outlook Express:

1 Connect to your Internet service provider.

2 Click Start, then click E-Mail. Your default e-mail program opens.

3 Click New.

4 Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in the

To box.

5 Type the subject of your e-mail in the Subject box.

6 Type the e-mail message.

Most e-mail prog rams let you attach files, such as photographs, to your e-mail. For

more information, see the help for your

Tips & Tricks

e-mail program.

Checking your e-mail

To protect your computer from viruses,

check any e-mail attachments using

McAfee SecurityCenter. For more

information, see “Protecting your

computer from viruses” on page 115.

For general information about e-mail,

click Start, then click Help and Support.

Type the keyword e-mail in the Search

Tips & Tricks

Help and Support

box, then click the arrow.

7 When finished, click Send. Your e-mail is sent over the Internet to the

e-mail address you specified.

To check your e-mail using Outlook Express:

1 Connect to your Internet service provider.

2 Click Start, then click E-Mail. Your default e-mail program opens.

3 Click Send/Receive.

4 Double-click the message you want to read.

For more information about managing and organizing your e-mail messages, see the online help in your e-mail program.

CHAPTER 5

Sending and Receiving Faxes

• Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax

• Sending a fax

• Receiving and viewing a fax

CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes www.gateway.com

Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax

This chapter describes using Microsoft Fax and your dial-up modem. You cannot send or receive a fax using a cable or DSL modem by following these instructions. Many Internet services exist that let you send or receive faxes using a broadband connection.

Your dial-up modem cable must be installed before you can send and receive faxes. You cannot use your standard telephone modem to connect to the Internet while sending and receiving faxes.

Installing Fax

Microsoft Fax lets you send and receive faxes using your dial-up modem. When Windows was originally installed on your computer, Fax may not have been installed.

To install Fax:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

Click/Double-click Add and Remove Programs. The Add or Remove Programs dialog box opens. Click Add/Remove Windows Components.

The Windows Components Wizard opens.

2 Click Fax Services, then click Next.

3 Click Finish to exit the Windows Components Wizard.

4 Click Exit to close the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP dialog box.

-OR-

Click Close to close the Add or Remove Programs dialog box.

www.gateway .com

Configuring Fax

Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax

Before you send your first fax, you need to set up your user information. Your fax cover sheets and fax headers contain this information, some of which is required by law. The Fax Configuration Wizard opens the first time you try to send a fax.

Configuration Wizard, you may need to

Information and the Phone and Modem

The first time you run the Fax

provide information in the Location

Important

Options dialog boxes.

To configure Microsoft Fax:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Fax Console. The Fax Configuration Wizard opens.

2 On the Welcome to Fax Configuration Wizard screen, click Next. The Sender

Information screen opens.

3 Type the information about yourself that you want to appear on your fax

cover page, then click Next. The Select Device for Sending or Receiving Faxes screen opens.

4 Click the arrow to open the Please select the fax device list, then click

the modem you are using to send and receive faxes.

5 If you want the modem to automatically answer the telephone in order

to receive faxes, click the Enable Receive check box.

6 Click Next. The Transmitting Subscriber Identification (TSID) screen opens.

CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes www.gateway.com

7 Type the transmitting fax identifier information. This identifier information

is required by law. You can type as many as 20 characters in the text box. We suggest using eight characters for your identifier name, followed by 12 characters for your telephone number.

Some fax machines cannot use special

characters such as hyphens. We suggest

using spaces instead of hyphens in

telephone and fax numbers.

Important

8 Click Next.

9 If you set up your computer to receive faxes, type the receiving fax

identifier information, then click Next. This identifier information is required by law and can be the same identifier that you typed in Step 7. The Routing Options screen opens.

10 If you set up your computer to receive faxes, select a folder you want to

store received faxes in and a printer you want to print received faxes on, then click Next. The Configuration Summary screen opens.

11 Click Finish. The fax console opens.

12 If the Windows Security Alert dialog box opens, click Unblock.

www.gateway .com

Setting up your cover page template

You can create your own cover page template that you can use in place of the cover page templates that Microsoft Fax provides for you. To create a cover page template, you use the Fax Cover Page Editor. On this template, you insert information fields that automatically import values you enter in both the Send Fax Wizard and the Fax Configuration Wizard when you send your fax.

To set up your fax cover page template:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Fax Cover Page Editor. The Cover Page-Fax Cover Page Editor opens. If the Cover Page Editor Tips dialog box opens, click OK.

2 To save your cover page template, click File, then click Save As. The Save

As dialog box opens with your personal cover pages folder already in the

Save in list.

Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax

■ If you want to include fields that are imported from the Send Fax

Wizard or the Fax Configuration Wizard (such as To or From), add them to the page by using the Insert menu, then move them to the appropriate place on your template. You can also use the Insert menu to include information that is automatically calculated (such as number of pages or date and time sent).

■ If you want to include text that always appears on your cover page

(such as a letterhead or address), draw a box using the text box tool, type your text inside of it, then move the box to the appropriate place on your template.

■ If you want to include a logo that appears on your cover page, copy

it to the Windows clipboard, then paste it into the Cover Page Editor and move it to the appropriate place on your template.

3 Type the new cover page template name.

4 Click Save.

CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes www.gateway.com

Sending a fax

Sending a quick fax

You can use the Send Fax Wizard to send a simple one-page fax to one or more recipients.

To send a simple fax:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Send a Fax. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

2 On the Welcome to Fax Configuration Wizard screen, click Next. The

Recipient Information screen opens.

3 Type the name and fax number of the recipient of your fax.

4 If you need to use the area code for your recipient, click Use dialing rules

to type the full ten-digit fax number.

5 If you want to send your fax to more than one recipient, click Add and

type the name and fax number of the next recipient.

6 When you have added all your recipients, click Next. The Preparing the

Cover Page screen opens.

7 Click the arrow to open the Cover page template, then click the cover

page template you want to use.

8 Type the subject text in the Subject line area.

9 Type the message text in the Note area, then click Next. The Schedule

screen opens.

10 Select when you want to send the fax and a priority for the fax, then click

Next. The Completing the Send Fax Wizard screen opens.

11 Click Finish.

12 If the Windows Security Alert dialog box opens (see page 48), click

Unblock.

www.gateway .com

Faxing from programs

Faxing a scanned document

Sending a fax

To fax a document directly from most programs:

1 Open your document in the program it was created in.

2 Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens.

3 Click the arrow button to open the Name list, then click the Fax printer.

4 Click Print. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

5 Complete the wizard by following the instructions in “Sending a fax” on

page 50.

To fax a document that you have scanned:

1 Scan the document using the program for your scanner.

2 With the scanned file open, click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box

opens.

3 Click the arrow button to open the Name list, then click the Fax printer.

4 Click Print. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

5 Complete the wizard by following the instructions in “Sending a fax” on

Automatically retry sending a fax

You can set up Fax so it continues to try sending your fax if the receiving fax machine is busy.

Important

Fax is automatically set up to retry three

times at ten minute intervals.

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

2 If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other

3 Right-click Fax, then click Properties. The Fax Properties dialog box opens.

page 50.

To automatically retry sending a fax:

Hardware. Click View installed printers or fax printers. The Printers and Faxe s window opens.

-OR-

If your Control Panel is in Classic View, double-click the Printers and Faxes icon. The Printers and Faxes window opens.

4 Click the Devices tab, then click Properties. The Modem dialog box opens.

5 Specify the number of retries and the amount of time between retries.

6 Click OK.

CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes www.gateway.com

Canceling a fax

You can cancel a fax that you have set up to send at a time in the future.

To cancel a fax that has not been sent:

1 If Fax is not open, click Start, All Programs, Accessories,

Communications, Fax, then click Fax Console. The Fax Console opens.

2 Click Outbox, then right-click the fax you want to cancel.

3 Click Delete to cancel the fax.

4 Click Ye s .

Automatically canceling a fax

If your computer tried to send a fax and failed to connect to a fax machine, you can automatically cancel the failed fax.

To automatically cancel a failed fax:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

2 If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other

Hardware. Click View installed printers or fax printers. The Printers and

Faxe s window opens.

-OR-

If your Control Panel is in Classic View, double-click the Printers and Faxes icon. The Printers and Faxes window opens.

3 Right-click Fax, then click Properties. The Fax Properties dialog box opens.

4 Click the Devices tab, then click Properties. The Modem dialog box opens.

5 Click the Cleanup tab.

6 Click to select the Automatically delete failed faxes after check box and

specify the number of days.

7 Click OK.

Receiving and viewing a fax

To receive and view a fax:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click

Fax Console. The Fax Console opens. When the Fax Console is open, it

detects incoming faxes and stores them in the Inbox.

2 To view a fax, click Inbox, then double-click the fax you want to view. The

fax viewer opens, where you can view and print the fax.

CHAPTER 6

Using Your Hardware

• Using the diskette drive

• Using the CD or DVD drive

• Using the memory card reader

• Configuring the audio jacks

• Connecting a projector or monitor

• Connecting a television

• Connecting a video camera

• Installing an uninterruptible power supply

CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware www.gateway.com

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 use a diskette:

1 Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up or right,

depending on your configuration.

2 To access a file on the diskette, click Start, then click My Computer.

Double-click the drive letter (for example, the A: drive), then double-click the file name.

3 To remove the diskette, make sure that the drive activity light is off, then

press the diskette eject button.

www.gateway .com

Using the CD or DVD drive

You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features.

Identifying drive types

Your Gateway computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive for one or more of the following logos:

If your drive has this logo... This is your drive type... Use your drive for...

Using the CD or DVD drive

CD drive

CD-RW drive

DVD/CD-RW drive

DVD drive

DVD+RW

DVD R/RW drive

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, and accessing data.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, accessing data, and creating CDs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, accessing data, creating CDs, and playing DVDs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, and accessing data.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, creating CDs, and recording video and data to DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, creating CDs, and recording video and data to DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and DVD-RW discs.

CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware www.gateway.com

Inserting a CD or DVD

Some music CDs have copy protection

software. You may not be able to play

these CDs on your computer.

Important

To insert a CD or DVD:

1 Press the eject button on the CD or DVD drive.

2 Place the disc in the tray on the spindle so that the label is up or to the

right, depending on your configuration.

When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure that the label side is up or

to the right. If the disc has two playable

sides, place the disc so the name of the

side you want to play is up or to the right.

Important

3 Press the eject button to close the tray.

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.

Manual eject hole (location varies)

Activity indicator (location varies)

Eject button

Memory card slot

Activity indicator

Memory card slot

www.gateway .com

Memory card types

Using the memory card reader

The memory card reader supports the following card types:

Card Type Slot Insert

Secure Digital

MultiMediaCard

™

top right Label facing up

Using a memory card

To avoid memory card damage or errors

while using a memory card, insert only

one memory card in a slot at a time.

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.

Caution

SM (SmartMedia™) top left Label facing down (gold contact area

facing up)

Memory Stick

Memory Stick PRO

™

bottom right Label facing up

xD (optional) top left Label facing up

CompactFlash

IBM Microdrive

™

bottom left Label facing up

Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, the E: and F: drives) so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.

To insert a memory card:

1 Insert the memory card into the memory card slot as indicated in the

previous table.

2 To access a file on the memory card, click Start, then click My Computer.

Double-click the drive letter (for example, the E: drive), then double-click the file name.

Important

hardware icon in the taskbar to

Do not use the remove

remove the memory card.

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.

CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware www.gateway.com

Configuring the audio jacks

If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks (which use a round mini-jack connector). The five jacks can be used for more than one purpose. For example, the blue jack on the computer can be a stereo in jack or a stereo out jack. For more information on how each jack can be used, see “Back”

on page 10. To use the universal audio jacks for something other than the

default audio device, you need to configure them.

To configure the universal audio jacks:

1 Connect your audio device(s) to the computer audio jack(s).

2 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices. Click/Double-click Sounds and Audio Devices, then

click Advanced under Speaker Settings. The Advanced Audio Properties

dialog box opens.

-OR-

If your computer has the Realtek Sound Effect Manager installed, double-click the Sound Effect Manager icon on the taskbar. The Realtek dialog box opens.

3 Configure the audio jacks for your speaker setup.

Connecting a projector or monitor

If your computer’s video card supports it (it must have two video connections), you can connect an additional monitor or projector to your computer.

The dialog boxes shown in this section

are examples only and may not represent

the actual screens on your computer.

For the location of the VGA port on your

computer, see “Back” on page 10 or the

Important

Tips & Tricks

setup poster.

To use a projector or additional monitor:

1 Turn off your computer.

2 Plug the projector or monitor cable into the secondary VGA port on

your computer.

3 Turn on your computer.

4 Plug the projector or monitor power cord into an AC power outlet, then

turn it on. Windows recognizes the new hardware and searches for its driver. You may need to install the driver from the disc supplied by the manufacturer or download the driver from the manufacturer’s Web site.

5 After the driver is installed, right-click any empty space on the desktop,

then click Properties. The Display Properties dialog box opens.

www.gateway .com

Connecting a television

6 Click the Settings tab.

7 Right-click the second monitor icon (labeled 2), then click Attached.

8 Click Apply.

9 Adjust properties such as Screen Resolution or Color Quality if

necessary.

10 Click OK.

Connecting a television

The TV out feature is available only on

computers that have a Video out or

The dialog boxes shown in this section

are examples only and may not represent

the actual screens on your computer.

To turn on external video by default,

connect the television (or other external

video device) before starting your

Audio is not transmitted through the

Video out or S-Video out jacks. Use a set

of headphones or external powered

speakers to hear sound while playing a

DVD. DVD playback to a VCR will be

scrambled by copyright protection

Important

S-Video out jack.

Important

computer.

Important

software.

The Video out or S-Video out jack on your computer lets you view your display on a television screen using a standard RCA or S-Video cable.

To view your computer display on a television:

1 With your computer off, connect one end of an appropriate video cable

to the Video out or S-Video out jack on your computer.

For the location of the video jacks on your

Tips & Tricks

computer, see “Back” on page 10 or the

setup poster.

2 Connect the other end of the cable to the Video in jack on your television

or VCR.

CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware www.gateway.com

3 Turn on the television or VCR.

4 Start your computer.

5 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

6 Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box

opens.

7 Click the Settings tab.

8 Click Advanced. The Multiple Monitors Properties dialog box opens.

Enable TV

www.gateway .com

Connecting a video camera

If the Enable TV and TV buttons are

grayed out, your computer has not

detected the television. Make sure that

the television is turned on and connected

Important

correctly.

Modifying television settings

9 Click the Displays tab.

10 Click the Enable TV button if it is not already enabled, then click Apply.

To modify television settings:

1 On the Multiple Monitors Properties dialog box Displays tab, click TV. The

TV Properties dialog box opens.

2 Modify the settings, then click OK.

Connecting a video camera

If your home video camera supports it, it can be connected to your computer so that you can download video from the camera as data files. You can also create video from a Web cam attached to your computer. For instructions on how to create video, see your camera’s user guide.

CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware www.gateway.com

Installing an uninterruptible power supply

To install an uninterruptible power supply (UPS):

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and

Maintenance.

2 Click/Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties

dialog box opens.

3 Click the UPS tab.

Help and Support

For more information about

uninterruptible power supplies, click

Start, then click He lp and Support. Type

the keyword uninterruptible power

supply in the Search box, then click the

arrow.

4 Click Select. The UPS Selection dialog box opens.

5 Click the manufacturer and model of the UPS device, then click the serial

port where the UPS device is attached.

6 Click Finish, then click OK.

CHAPTER 7

Using Your Software

•Adjusting the volume

•Playing music and movies

• Creating audio files and music libraries

• Creating and editing videos

• Creating music CDs and video DVDs

• Creating and copying data CDs and DVDs

• Using advanced multimedia features

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Adjusting the volume

You can use the Windows volume controls to adjust the overall volume and the volume of specific sound devices in your computer. You can also adjust the volume by using the volume adjustment knob on the speakers.

To adjust the overall volume level from Windows:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio

Devices.

2 Click/Double-click the Adjust the system volume or Sounds and Audio

Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties dialog box opens.

3 Click the Volume tab.

For more information about adjusting

the volume, click Start, then click Help

adjusting volume in the Search box,

Help and Support

and Support. Type the keyword

then click the arrow.

4 Drag the Device Volume slider to change the volume or click to select the

Mute check box, then click OK.

To adjust specific volume levels:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio

Devices.

2 Click/Double-click the Adjust the system volume or Sounds and Audio

Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties dialog box opens.

www.gateway .com

Adjusting the volume

3 Click the Volume tab.

4 Click Advanced in the Device volume area.

If the device you want to adjust does not appear in the window, click Options, Properties, the check box next to the audio device you want to adjust, then click OK.

5 Drag the volume level and balance sliders for the device you want to

adjust. For more information about the volume controls, click Help in the window.

6 Click X in the top-right corner of the window to close it.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Playing music and movies

Playing WA V audio files

Sound Recorder is a simple Windows program that lets you record and play WAV files. WAV is the most common audio file format used for your Windows system sounds.

To play a WAV audio file with Sound Recorder:

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then click Sound

Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.

Playing audio and video files

Rewind

Fast Forward

2 Click File, then click Open. The Open dialog box opens.

3 Click the file you want to play, then click Open.

4 Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by

clicking (stop).

Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files, including WAV, MIDI, MP3, AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. For more information about using Windows Media Player, click Help.

Play

Record

Stop

www.gateway .com

Double-click the file in My Computer.

Shortcut

Playing music and movies

To play a file using WindowsMedia Player:

1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player opens.

Vide o screen

Playing CDs or DVDs

Some music CDs have copy protection

software. You may not be able to play

these CDs on your computer.

To watch a DVD you must have a DVD

drive in your computer. If you do not have

a DVD drive and would like to add an

internal or external drive, visit the

accessories.gateway.com.

For more information about playing CDs or DVDs, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type the phrases playing CDs

or playing DVDs in the Search box, then

Important

Accessory Store at

Help & Support

click the arrow.

StopPlay

Video file information

2 Click File, then click Open. The Open dialog box opens.

3 Click the file you want to play, then click Open.

4 Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by

clicking (stop).

You can play CDs using Windows Media Player, and you can play DVDs using Windows Media Player and CyberLink PowerDVD.

A standard Compact Disc (CD) holds an entire album of digital songs, and can be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive.

A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies or several albums of music can fit on a single disc. DVDs can be played on a DVD player or a DVD drive-equipped computer.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Playing a CD or DVD using Windows Media Player

Use Windows Media Player to listen to CDs or watch DVDs. For more information about using Windows Media Player, click Help.

To play a CD or DVD:

Insert a CD or DVD Ö Windows Media

Player opens and plays the disc

Shortcut

1 Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in

and that the volume is turned up.

2 Insert a CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive.

3 If a dialog box opens with a list of CD players or DVD players, click

Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player opens.

- OR -

If a dialog box does not open with a list of CD players or DVD players, click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player opens.

Play/pause

Stop

4 Click (play). If you d o not hear soun d or yo u want to chang e the volume,

Vol ume

Mute

see “Adjusting the volume” on page 64.

www.gateway .com

For more information about playing

DVDs using CyberLink PowerDVD, click

Start, All Programs, CyberLink

PowerDV D, then click PowerDVD Help.

Help & Support

Playing music and movies

Playing a DVD using CyberLink PowerDVD

To play a DVD using CyberLink PowerDVD:

1 Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in

and that the volume is turned up.

2 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink PowerDVD, then click PowerDVD.

The PowerDVD video screen and control panel open.

3 Insert a DVD into the DVD drive, then click (play). The DVD plays.

To control the DVD or adjust the volume, use the controls in PowerDVD.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Creating audio files and music libraries

Creating music files

You can create several types of audio files for your listening enjoyment, including WAV, MP3, and WMA files.

Recording WAV audio files

Sound recorder is a simple Windows program that lets you record and play WAV files. WAV is the most common audio file format used for your Windows system sounds. For information about playing WAV files, see “Playing WAV audio files”

on page 66.

To record a WAV audio file:

For more information about making or

playing an audio recording, click Start,

then click Help and Support. Type the

phrases recording audio or playing

audio in the Search box, then click the

Help & Support

arrow.

1 Plug a microphone into one of the Microphone jacks on your computer.

For the location of the Microphone jacks, see “Front” on page 8, or “Back”

on page 10.

2 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then click Sound

Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.

Rewind

Fast Forward

3 Click (record), then speak into the microphone.

4 When you finish recording, click (stop).

5 Click File, then click Save As. The Save As dialog box opens.

6 Name the recording, specify the location where you want to save the

Play

Record

Stop

recording, then click Save. The recording is saved.

www.gateway .com

Some music CDs have copy protection software. You cannot copy tracks from

Important

these CDs.

Creating audio files and music libraries

Creating WMA and MP3 music files using Windows Media Player

Using Windows Media Player, you can copy the tracks from a music CD to your computer’s hard drive as WMA or MP3 files. WMA and MP3 are methods for digitally compressing high-fidelity music into compact files without noticeably

sacrificing quality. WMA files end in the file extension WMA, and MP3 files end in the file extension MP3.

To create WMA or MP3 files:

1 Insert a music CD into your CD or DVD drive.

2 If a dialog box opens with a list of CD players, click

Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.

- OR -

If a dialog box does not open with a list of CD players, click Start, then click Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.

3 Click Tools, Options, then click the Rip Music tab.

4 Click the arrow to open the Format list, then click either mp3 or Windows

Media Audio. For more information on the differences between the two types of files, click Learn more about MP3 formats.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

5 Click File, CDs and Devices, Rip Audio CD, then click the drive that

contains the audio CD.

6 Click to clear the check box for any track you do not want to record.

7 Click Rip Music. Windows Media Player records the tracks to your hard

drive as WMA files. A progress bar appears next to each track as it is recorded.

Building a music library

During the download process, WMA and MP3 files may become corrupt. If you are

having trouble listening to, or working

with, a downloaded file, try downloading

Caution

the file again.

Use Windows Media Player to build a music library. You can organize your music tracks (individual MP3 or WMA audio files) by categories, find a track quickly by sorting, and add information to a music file.

You can add music tracks to your music library by:

■ Creating MP3 or WMA files—When you create MP3 or WMA files from

the tracks on your music CD, Windows Media Player automatically adds these files to your music library.

■ Dragging and Dropping—Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer or

your desktop to the music library.

■ Downloading files from the Internet—When you are connected to the

Internet, WMA and MP3 files that you download are automatically added to your music library.

www.gateway .com

Editing music file information

Creating and editing videos

After you add a WMA or MP3 file to your music library, you can edit the track’s information.

To edit track information:

1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player opens.

2 Click the Library tab.

3 Right-click the track you want to edit, then click Advanced Tag Editor. The

Advanced Tag Editor dialog box opens.

4 Enter track information such as Title, Artist, Album, and Genre.

5 Click OK. The new track information appears in the Windows Media Player

library.

Creating and editing videos

Editing videos

For more information about editing

videos, click Start, then click Help and

Support. Type th e ph rase Window s

Movie Maker in the Search box, then

Help & Support

click the arrow.

Windows Movie Maker is a video capture program that lets you capture and edit full-motion video, single images, and audio through the IEEE 1394 port (optional) on your computer. For more information about using Windows Movie Maker, see its online help.

You may have received additional movie editing software with your computer. For more information about using this software, including additional features not available in Windows Movie Maker, see that program’s online help.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Transferring your video to your computer

To transfer your video to your computer:

1 Connect your video camera to your computer by following the camera

manufacturer’s instructions.

2 If a dialog box opens with a list of video editing programs, click

Windows Movie Maker. Windows Movie Maker opens.

- OR -

If a dialog box does not open with a list of video editing programs, click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Movie Maker. Windows Movie Maker opens.

Windows Movie Maker recognizes your camera and the Video Capture Wizard opens.

3 If the wizard does not open, click Capture From Video Device.

www.gateway .com

Video files may require a significant

amount of free hard drive space

depending on your settings. A one hour

tape may require more than 10 GB of

hard drive space for storage with

additional space required for editing.

Editing your video

Caution

Creating and editing videos

4 Complete the screens in the Video Capture Wizard, clicking Next after

each one.

When you reach the final screen, Windows Movie Maker rewinds the video tape in your camera and captures it onto your hard drive.

For information about the settings in the Video Capture Wizard, click

Learn more about video settings in the wizard, or click Help, then click Help Topics in Windows Movie Maker.

After your video file is captured on your computer, you can edit it. Some of the edits you can make to your video include:

■ Splitting your video into more than one clip or combining two or more

clips into one clip

■ Trimming unwanted material from the beginning or end of your clip

■ Inserting video transitions between clips

■ Adding video effects

■ Adding narration

■ Adding music

■ Adding titles and credits

Saving your video

For information about the editing your video, click Help, then click Help Topics in Windows Movie Maker.

After you finish editing your video, you can save it to one of the following places. Under Movie Tasks:

■ Click Save to My Computer to save your movie to your hard drive.

■ Click Save to CD to save your movie to a recordable CD.

■ Click Send in e-mail to send your video as an e-mail attachment.

■ Click Send to the Web to post or send your video to your Web site so

friends and family can watch your video on the Web.

■ Click Send to DV Camera to play your video back to your video camera

so you can record it on tape and view it on your television.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

So me C Ds hav e co py p rot ec tio n so ft war e.

You cannot create MP3, WAV, or WMA

files from these CDs and you may not be

able to listen to these CDs on your

Tips & Tricks

Important

You can also use Windows Media Player

to create music CDs. For more

information, see “Creating a music CD

using Windows Media Player” on

Creating a music CD

We recommend that you do not use your

computer for other tasks while creating

If you record copyrighted material on a CD or DVD, you need permission from the copyright owner. Otherwise, you may be violating copyright law and be subject to

payment of damages and other

remedies. If you are uncertain about your

rights, contact your legal advisor.

Important

CDs or DVDs.

computer.

page 76.

You can create music CDs using Windows Media Player or CyberLink Power2Go.

Creating a music CD using Windows Media Player

To create a music CD using Windows Media Player:

1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player opens.

2 Insert a blank, writable CD into your CD or DVD drive.

3 If a dialog box opens, click Take no action, then click OK.

4 Click the Burn tab. The Select files to burn window opens.

www.gateway .com

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

5 Click Edit Playlist. The Edit Playlist dialog box opens.

6 Click songs in the left column to add them to the playlist. After all the

songs are added to your list, click OK.

7 Click Start Burn.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Creating a music CD with CyberLink Power2Go

To create a music CD:

1 Insert a blank, writable CD into your CD or DVD drive.

2 If a dialog box opens, click Take no action, then click OK.

3 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then

click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box.

www.gateway .com

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

4 Click Music Disc in the left-hand column, select your disc type in the

right-hand column, then click OK. The Select a Burning Task dialog box closes.

5 In the top pane, browse to the folder that contains the files or folders you

want to burn to the CD or DVD. Click to select the file or folder. Press and hold the C

6 Drag the files or folders into the bottom pane.

7 After you select all your files, click . The Configuration/Information

TRL key to select multiple files.

dialog box opens.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

8 If you have one CD or DVD burner, click Burn. The Burning dialog box

opens and Power2Go burns the files to the CD or DVD.

-OR-

If you have more than one CD or DVD burner, select the burner, then click Burn. The Burning dialog box opens and Power2Go burns the files to the CD or DVD.

9 When a message tells you that the recording is complete, click OK to start

the LabelPrint program or Cancel to return to Power2Go.

Creating a video DVD

TV programs that have been recorded

with the Media Player can be recorded to

DVD and replayed on another Media

Center computer or on a non-Media

Center computer that has a DVD player

and DVD decoder software (such as

PowerDVD) installed. The non-Media

Center computer must also have Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or later, and the

Windows patch Q810243 Update.

We recommend that you do not use your

computer for other tasks while creating

If you record copyrighted material on a CD or DVD, you need permission from the copyright owner. Otherwise, you may be violating copyright law and be subject to

payment of damages and other

remedies. If you are uncertain about your

rights, contact your legal advisor.

Important

CDs or DVDs.

You can create video DVDs using Windows Media Player or CyberLink Power2Go.

Creating a video DVD with Windows Media Player

To create a video DVD using Windows Media Player:

1 Insert a blank, writable DVD-R or DVD-RW disc into your recordable DVD

drive.

2 Press the Start button on the remote control. Media Player starts.

3 Click More Programs, then click Create CD/DVD.

www.gateway .com

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

4 Click Video DVD, then click OK.

5 Follow the on-screen prompts to finish burning the DVD. For more

information, click the Media Center’s Help icon.

Creating a video DVD with CyberLink Power2Go

To create a video DVD:

1 Insert a blank, writable DVD into your DVD drive.

2 If a dialog box opens, click Ta ke n o acti on, then click OK.

3 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then

click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

4 Click Video/Photo Disc in the left-hand column, select your disc type in

the right-hand column, then click OK. The Select a Burning Task dialog box closes.

5 Click the Add Files button. The Open dialog box opens.

6 Browse to the folder that contains the video files you want to burn to the

DVD. Click to select the file(s). Press and hold the CTRL key to select multiple files.

7 Click Import. The video files appear in the Video pane.

8 Click the icon next to the Background Image box to select the image that

appears behind your menu.

9 Click the icon next to the Background Music box to select the music that

plays while your menu appears.

10 Type the title you want to appear on your me nu in t he Menu Caption Text

box.

www.gateway .com

Creating music CDs and video DVDs

11 After you set up your DVD, click . The Configuration/Information dialog

box opens.

12 Click the Video tab, then select the television and audio format for your

DVD.

13 Click the Burner tab.

14 If you have one DVD burner, click Burn. The Burning dialog box opens and

Power2Go burns the files to the DVD.

-OR-

If you have more than one DVD burner, select the burner, then click Burn. The Burning dialog box opens and Power2Go burns the files to the CD or DVD.

15 When a message tells you that the recording is complete, click OK to start

the LabelPrint program or Cancel to return to Power2Go.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Creating and copying data CDs and DVDs

Creating a data CD or DVD

You can use CyberLink Power2Go to create data CDs or DVDs.

To create a data CD or DVD:

1 Insert a blank, writable CD or DVD into your CD or DVD drive.

2 If a dialog box opens, click Take no action, then click OK.

3 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then

click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box.

www.gateway .com

Creating and copying data CDs and DVDs

4 Click Data Disc in the left-hand column, select your disc type in the

right-hand column, then click OK. The Select a Burning Task dialog box closes.

5 In the top pane, browse to the folder that contains the files or folders you

want to burn to the CD or DVD. Click to select the file or folder. Press and hold the C

6 Drag the files or folders into the bottom pane.

7 After you select all your files, click . The Configuration/Information

TRL key to select multiple files.

dialog box opens.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

8 If you have one CD or DVD burner, click Burn. The Burning dialog box

opens and Power2Go burns the files to the CD or DVD.

-OR-

If you have more than one CD or DVD burner, select the burner, then click Burn. The Burning dialog box opens and Power2Go burns the files to the CD or DVD.

9 When a message tells you that the recording is complete, click OK to start

the LabelPrint program or Cancel to return to Power2Go.

Copying a CD or DVD

To copy a CD or DVD with CyberLink Power2Go:

1 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then

click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box.

www.gateway .com

Creating and copying data CDs and DVDs

2 Click Copy disc in the left-hand column, then click OK. The Copy Disc

dialog box opens.

3 Insert the music CD, data CD, or data DVD you want to copy into your CD

or DVD drive.

4 Click the arrow to open the From list, then click the drive that contains

your source disc.

5 Click the arrow to open the To list, then click your recordable CD or DVD

drive.

6 Click Copy. The Burning dialog box opens.

If you are using one drive, Power2Go copies the tracks or files to your hard drive. If you are using two drives, Power2Go copies the tracks from the source disc to the blank, recordable disc.

7 If you are using one drive, a message prompts you to insert a CD or DVD.

Remove the source CD or DVD, insert a blank, writable CD or DVD, then wait for the message box to close. Power2Go copies the files from your hard drive to the writable CD or DVD.

8 When a message tells you that the recording is complete, click OK.

CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software www.gateway.com

Using advanced multimedia features

Windows Media Player advanced features

You can use Windows Media Player to transfer WMA and MP3 files to your portable music player, to listen to Internet radio, and to watch Internet TV. For more information, see the Windows Media Player online help.

Recording audio

Use the following instructions to make an audio recording by speaking into a microphone.

To make an audio recording:

1 Plug a microphone into one of the Microphone jacks on your computer.

For the location of the Microphone jacks, see your computer’s setup poster, “Front” on page 8, or “Back” on page 10.

2 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then click Sound

Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.

Rewind

Fast Forward

3 Click (record), then speak into the microphone.

4 When you finish recording, click (stop).

5 Click File, then click Save As. The Save As dialog box opens.

6 Name the recording, specify the location where you want to save the

recording, then click Save. The recording is saved.

Play

Record

Stop

To play an audio recording in Sound Recorder:

1 Open the Sound Recorder.

2 Click File, then click Open. The Open dialog box opens.

3 Click the file you want to play, then click Open.

4 Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by

clicking (stop).

CHAPTER 8

Customizing Your Computer

• Adjusting the screen and desktop settings

• Changing the mouse settings

• Using an extended desktop

• Adjusting power-saving settings

CHAPTER 8: Customizing Your Computer www.gateway.com

Adjusting the screen and desktop settings

If you are using a monitor, you can adjust

the screen settings for brightness,

contrast, and horizontal and vertical

image position using the controls on the

front of your monitor. For more

information about these adjustments,

see your monitor’s user guide.

Tips & Tricks

Adjusting the color depth

Adjusting the color depth and screen area are two of the most basic display settings you may need to change. You can also adjust settings such as the screen background and screen saver.

Color depth is the number of colors your screen displays. Various image types require various color depths for optimum appearance. For example, simple color drawings may look satisfactory in 256 colors while color photographs need millions of colors to be displayed with optimum quality.

Windows lets you choose from several color depth settings. We recommend that you use the 32-bit True Color setting at all times.

If the color in your images seems “false” or “jumpy,” especially after you have played a game or run a video-intensive program, check the color depth setting and return it to 32-bit True Color, if necessary.

To change the color depth:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

2 Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box

opens.

For more information about changing

the display settings, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type the keyword

changing display settings in the Search

Help and Support

box, then click the arrow.

3 Click the Settings tab.

4 Click the arrow button to open the Color quality list, then click the color

depth you want.

5 Click OK, then click Ye s .

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Adjusting the screen resolution

You can increase the screen resolution to fit more icons on your desktop, or you can decrease the resolution to make reading the display easier. The higher the resolution, the smaller individual components of the screen (such as icons and menu bars) appear.

Adjusting the screen and desktop settings

To adjust the screen resolution:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

2 Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box

opens.

3 Click the Settings tab.

For more information about changing

the screen resolution, click Start, then

keywo rd changing screen resolution in

the Search box, then click the arrow.

Help and Support

click Help and Support. Type the

4 Drag the Screen resolution slider to the resolution you prefer.

5 Click OK, then click Ye s .

Changing the colors on your Windows desktop

You can change the colors of Windows desktop items, such as the background color and dialog box title bars.

To change desktop colors:

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

2 Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box

opens.

CHAPTER 8: Customizing Your Computer www.gateway.com

3 Click the Appearance tab.

4 Click the arrow button to open the Color scheme list, click the color

scheme you want, then click OK. The new colors appear on your desktop.

- OR -

If you want to create a new color scheme as part of a desktop theme, see the following procedure.

To create a new color scheme as part of a desktop theme:

1 Click Advanced. The Advanced Appearance dialog box opens.

2 Click the arrow button to open the Item list, then click the item you want

to change.

3 Change the color or font settings for the item.

4 Click OK, then click the Themes tab.

5 Click Save As, type a name for the new theme, then click OK twice. The

new colors appear on your desktop.

www.gateway .com

Changing the desktop background

You can change the Windows desktop background picture. Windows provides several backgrounds, or you can use pictures that you have created or retrieved from other sources.

1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If

2 Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box

3 Click the Desktop tab.

Adjusting the screen and desktop settings

To change the desktop background:

your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

opens.

For more information about changing

the desktop background, click Start, then

background in the Search box, th en click

Help and Support

click Help and Support. Type the

keyword changing desktop

the arrow.

4 Click a background picture in the Background list.

- OR -

Click Browse to select a background picture from another location.

5 If you want the picture you chose to cover the entire screen, click the arrow

button to open the Position list, then click Stretch or Tile.

If the picture you chose does not cover the entire screen and you did not choose to stretch or tile the picture, you can change the solid color behind the picture by clicking the arrow button to open the Color list, then clicking a color.

6 Click OK.

Gateway E-6610D, E-6610Q, S-5615 Quick Start Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Getting Help

Thank you for purchasing our computer!

Using the Gateway Web site

Using Support

Using Help and Support

Searching for a topic

Using Online help

Finding your model and serial number

Finding the Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

Getting Started

Front

Back

Working safely

Reducing eye strain

Setting up your computer desk and chair

Setting up your computer and computer accessories

Sitting at your computer

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

Protecting from power source problems

Checking the voltage selection

Starting your computer

Waking up your computer

T urning off your computer

Restarting your computer

Using the keyboard

Enhanced keyboard

Standard keyboard

Using the mouse

Connecting the dial-up modem

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

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device

Using the Windows desktop

Using the Start menu

Adding icons to the desktop

Identifying window items

Working with files and folders

Viewing drives

Creating folders

Copying and moving files and folders

Deleting files and folders

Searching for files and folders

Using the Windows Search utility

Browsing for files and folders

Working with documents

Creating a new document

Saving a document

Opening a document

Printing a document

Using Windows shortcuts

Using the Internet

Learning about the Internet

Setting up an Internet account

Accessing your Internet account

Downloading files

Using e-mail

Sending e-mail

Checking your e-mail

Sending and Receiving Faxes

Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax

Installing Fax

Configuring Fax

Setting up your cover page template

Sending a fax

Sending a quick fax

Faxing from programs

Faxing a scanned document

Automatically retry sending a fax

Canceling a fax

Receiving and viewing a fax

Using Your Hardware

Using the diskette drive

Using the CD or DVD drive

Identifying drive types

Inserting a CD or DVD

Using the memory card reader