Gateway DX4200, DX4640, DX4710, DX4720, DX4800 Quick Reference Guide

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REFERENCEGUIDE

Chapter 1: About This Reference . . . . . . . . . . . 1

About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Accessing the online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer . . . . . 5

Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 11

Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

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

Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

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

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . .14

Preparing power connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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

Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . . .15

Connecting a dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

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

Waking up your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Restarting (rebooting) your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Using optical drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Loading an optical disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Identifying optical drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Playing discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Creating discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Contents

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Installing a printer, scanner, or other device . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Chapter 4: Upgrading Your Computer. . . . . . . 33

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Opening the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Removing the left side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Removing the right side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Removing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Replacing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Replacing the side panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Replacing the color panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Adding or replacing an optical disc drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Replacing the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Adding or replacing a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Adding or replacing an expansion card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Chapter 5: Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . 51

Setting up a maintenance schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Creating system recovery discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Cleaning the monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Cleaning optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Using BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

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Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Scheduling maintenance tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Transferring files and settings automatically . . . . . . . . . .65

Transferring files and settings manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Try these steps first . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Internet and networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Expansion cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Checking for device problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Creating recovery discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . .91

Returning to a previous system condition . . . . . . . . . . . .92

Returning your system to its factory condition . . . . . . . .93

Technical support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96

iii

Contents

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Calling Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Appendix A: Legal Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

CHAPTER1

About This Reference

• About this guide

• Accessing the online User Guide

• Gateway contact information

• Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

• For more information

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

About this guide

This guide includes information and maintenance instructions that are specific to your model of Gateway computer. Some illustrations in this guide may look different than your computer because hardware options and port locations may vary. For all other computer information, see your online User Guide.

For more information

For more information about your computer, visit Gateway’s Support page at www.gateway.com on your computer’s label. The Support page also has links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications.

or the Web address shown

Accessing the online User Guide

In addition to this guide, your User Guide has been included on your hard drive. Your User Guide is an in-depth, easy-to-read manual that includes information on the following topics:

• Help and technical support

• Using and customizing Windows and other software

• Controlling audio and video settings

• Using the Internet

• Protecting your files

• Playing and recording media

• Networking

To access your User Guide:

• Click (Start), All Programs, then click Gateway

Documentation.

Gateway contact information

See your setup poster for Customer Care contact information. The label on the top of your computer contains information that identifies your computer model and serial number. Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.

www.gateway.com

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the back or side of your computer includes the product key code for your operating system. If you ever reinstall Windows from the installation DVD, you will need to enter these numbers to activate Windows.

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

• Front

• Back

CHAPTER2

Checking Out Your

Computer

Front

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer

Important

Your computer’s hardware options , port locations, and indicators may

vary from this illustration.

Memory card reader

Optical disc drive

IEEE 1394/

FireWire™ port

Microphone jack

Headphone jack

USB ports

Copy button

Optical disc drive (optional)

Power button

IR learning indicator (red)IR sensor

Wireless network connection indicator (green)Bluetooth activity indicator (blue)

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Component Icon Description

Memory card reader

Optical disc drive Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install

Video, Audio left, and Audio right jacks (optional)

IEEE 1394 port Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack.

Headphone jack Plug powered, analog front speakers, an

USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as

Insert a memory card from a digital camera, MP3 player, PDA, cellular telephone, or other device into the memory card reader.

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, recordable DVD, or Blu-ray drive. For more information about your drive, see

“Identifying optical drive types” on page 23.

Connect your video camera to these jacks.

devices (such as a digital camcorder) into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port.

external amplifier, or headphones into this jack.

a USB external drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports.

)

Copy button Press th is button for fast, one-touch co pying of

photos from your memory card to a folder on your computer. The activity indicator inside teh button lights while files are being copied.

Power button 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.

Back

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer

Important

Your computer’s hardware options and port locations may vary from this

illustration.

Voltage switch

Power connector

PS/2 keyboard port

HDMI jack (optional)

IEEE 1394 port

USB ports

S/PDIF output jack

Microphone jack

Headphone/front

speaker jack

DVI port (optional)

HDMI jack (optional)

Modem jack (optional)

Case cover thumbs crew

PS/2 mouse port

Monitor (VGA) port

Ethernet (network) jack

Rear surround speaker jack Center/subwoofer jack

Audio in/side speaker jack Case cover thumbscrew

Video card (optional) TV tuner card (optional)

Wireless network card (optional)

Telephone jack (optional)

Component Icon Description

Voltage switch The switch is preset at the factory. Make

sure that this is set to the correct voltage for your area.

Power connector Plug the power cord into this connector.

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

www.gateway.com

Component Icon Description

HDMI jack Plug an HDMI cable into this jack and an

IEEE 1394 port Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire™)

USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices

S/PDIF output jack Plug an optical cable from an amplifier or

Microphone jack (pink plug)

Headphone/analog speakers jack (green plug)

-ORFront speakers jack

HDMI input jack on a TV or other A/V device. HDMI carries a high-quality digital video and digital audio signal.

devices (such as a digital camcorder) into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port. For more information, see “Installing a printer,

scanner, or other device” on page 30.

(such as a USB printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports. For more information, see “Installing a printer,

scanner, or other device” on page 30.

entertainment system into this jack for digital sound.

Plug a microphone into this jack.

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 more information, see “Configuring the

audio jacks” on page 30.

DVI port (optional) Connect a DVI cable to this optional port and

Modem jack (optional)

Case cover thumbscrew

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

Monitor (VGA) port Plug a VGA (blue connector) monitor cable

to a DVI-capable display.

Plug a modem cable into this jack. For more information, see “Connecting a dial-up

modem” on page 16.

Remove this screw before opening the case.

into this port.

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer

Component Icon Description

Ethernet (network) jack

Rear speaker jack (black plug)

Center/subwoofer jack (orange plug) (optional)

Audio input (Line in) jack (blue plug)

-ORSide speaker jack

Video card (optional) Plug a VGA or DVI monitor into the VGA

TV tuner card (optional)

Plug an 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 “Learning about the Internet” in the online User Guide.

Plug your rear right and left speakers into this jack. For more information, see

“Configuring the audio jacks” on page 30.

Plug your center speaker and subwoofer into this jack. For more information, see

“Configuring the audio jacks” on page 30.

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 more information, see “Configuring the

audio jacks” on page 30.

(blue) or DVI (white) port on this card, if installed.

Plug a video tuner or antenna into this card, if installed.

Wireless network card (optional)

Telephone jack (optional)

Lets you wirelessly connect to a wireless-enabled network.

Plug the cord from your telephone into this jack.

CHAPTER3

Setting Up and

Getting Started

• Working safely and comfortably

• Preparing power connections

• Connecting to a broadband modem or

network

• Connecting a dial-up modem

• Starting your computer

• Turning off your computer

• Restarting (rebooting) your computer

• Using the keyboard

• Using the mouse

• Using optical drives

• Using the memory card reader

• Adjusting the volume

• Configuring the audio jacks

• Installing a printer, scanner, or other device

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Working safely and comfortably

Before using your computer, follow these general guidelines for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain:

• Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.

• Adjust the screen so it is perpendicular to your line of

sight, and the top of the screen is no higher than eye level.

• Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.

• Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.

Hands and arms are

parallel to the floor

Top of screen is not higher than eye level

Screen is perpendicular to your line of sight

Feet are flat on the floor

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Reducing eye strain

Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the monitor screen or shine directly into your eyes.

• Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid

glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes. Reduce glare by installing shades or curtains on windows, and by installing a glare screen filter.

• Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use

your computer in a dark room.

• Set paper holders at the same height and distance as the

monitor.

• Avoid focusing your eyes on your computer screen for

long periods of time. Every 10 or 15 minutes, look around the room, and try to focus on distant objects.

Setting up your computer desk and chair

When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make sure that the desk is the appropriate height and the chair helps you maintain good posture.

• Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

• Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands

and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you use the keyboard and touchpad. If the desk is not adjustable or is too tall, consider using an adjustable chair to control your arm’s height above the keyboard.

• Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes

your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.

• Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly below

the level of your elbow. This position lets your shoulders relax while you type.

• Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of the seat,

or use a footrest to distribute your weight evenly on the chair and relieve pressure on the back of your thighs.

• Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower

curve of your spine. You can use a pillow or cushion to provide extra back support.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Sitting at your computer

• Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make

sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type.

• Do n ot slou ch forward or lean far b ack. Si t wit h yo ur 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.

Preparing power connections

Protecting from power source problems

Warning

High voltages can enter your computer through both the power cord and the modem connection. Protect your computer by using a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an antenna/cableTV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the modem.

During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your computer can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your computer and peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents them from reaching your computer.

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your work and shut down your computer normally.

www.gateway.com

Checking the voltage selection

Caution

If you set the voltage selection switch incorrectly, your system will be damaged. Make sure this switch is set correctly for your location before turning on your computer. In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal 115 volts at 60 Hz. The power supply should always be set to this when your computer is operating in the United States. In other areas of the world, such as Europe, the utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your computer is operating in an environment such as this, the voltage switch should be moved to 230.

The power supply, a component built into your computer, provides power to the system board, add-in cards, and peripheral devices. The power supply’s voltage selection for your location is typically set correctly for your location at the factory, but you can change it to match the electrical service available in your usage area (such as while in another country). Use the power selection switch on the back of your computer to set the voltage to 115V or 230V.

To set the voltage selection switch:

1 Disconnect your computer’s power cable. 2 Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the

voltage selection switch to the correct voltage position. The switch is located on the back of your computer, near the power cable connector. To see the location, see

“Back” on page 8.

Connecting to a broadband modem or network

Important

Your computer may be equipped with a built-in Ethernet (network) jack. For information about setting up a wired or wireless Ethernet network, see your online User Guide.

You can connect your computer to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired Ethernet network.

To connect to a broadband modem or 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 network jack.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Connecting a dial-up modem

Warning

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

telecommunications line cord.

Your computer may have a 56K modem that you can use with a standard telephone line to connect to the Internet or fax documents.

To connect the modem:

1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem

jack on the modem at 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 If you want, you can connect a telephone to the PHONE

jack on the modem at the back of your computer.

Starting your computer

To start your computer:

1 Connect the power, network, mouse, and keyboard

cables to your computer according to the setup poster.

2 Press the power button on the front of your computer.

If your computer does not turn on, check the power cable connections.

Important

Your computer has a built-in, variable-speed fan. In addition, your computer uses a powerful processor which produces heat and has its own cooling fan. Both the system fan and processor fan 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.

3 If you are starting your computer for the first time,

follow the on-screen instructions to select the language and time zone and to create your first user account.

4 Attach and turn on any USB or audio peripheral devices,

such as printers, scanners, and speakers. If you need to attach a peripheral device to the parallel or serial ports, turn off your computer first. See the documentation that came with each device for its setup instructions.

www.gateway.com

5 To open your computer’s Start menu, click (Start).

From that menu, you can run programs and search for files. For more information on using your computer’s menus, see “Using Windows” and “Customizing Windows” in your online User Guide.

Waking up your computer

Tip

For more information about changing the power button mode, see the

“Customizing” chapter in your online User Guide.

When you have not used your computer for several minutes, it may enter a power-saving mode called Sleep. While in Sleep mode, the power indicator on the power button flashes.

If your computer is in Sleep mode, press a key on the keyboard or press the power button to “wake” it up. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button.

Turning off your computer

Warning

When you turn off your computer, certain components in the power supply and system board remain energized. In order to remove all electrical power from your computer, unplug the power cord and modem cable from the wall outlets. We recommend disconnecting the power cord and modem cable when your computer will not be used for long periods.

Important

If you cannot use the Shut Down option in Windows to turn off your computer, press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release it.

Putting your computer into Sleep mode is the easiest way to power down your computer. Although it does not turn your computer completely off, it does turn off or slow down most system operations to save power, and saves your desktop layout so the next time you restore power, the programs are laid out just as you left them. Waking your computer from a Sleep state is much faster than turning on your computer after it has been turned completely off.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To put your computer to sleep:

1 Click (Start), then click (power). The computer

saves your session and partially shuts down to save power.

2 To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard

or press the power button. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button.

To turn off your computer:

1 Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then

click Shut Down.

The computer turns off.

2 To completely disconnect all power (such as for servicing

internal components), also disconnect the power cord.

Restarting (rebooting) your computer

As a troubleshooting step, you may need to restart (reboot) your computer.

To restart your computer:

1 Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then

click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns on again.

- OR -

Press C

TRL+ALT+DELETE twice.

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2 If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the

power button until the computer turns off (about five seconds), then press it again to turn the computer back on.

Using the keyboard

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

key

Audio playback keys

Navigation keys Numeric keypad

Function keys

Windows key Application

Fn key

Feature Icon Description

Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each

Audio playback keys

Windows key Press this key to open the Windows Start menu.

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

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

This key can also be used in combination with other keys to open utilities like F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer).

Fn key Press this key in combination with keys that have

alternate functions defined, such as the F9-F12 keys.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Feature Icon Description

Application key Press this key to access shortcut menus and help

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor and to copy,

Numeric keypad Press these keys to type numbers when the

assistants in Windows.

cut, and paste objects.

numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on.

Using the mouse

Scroll wheel

Right button

Left button

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

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

You c an use the 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...

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Move the pointer on the computer display

Select an object on the computer display

Start a program or open a file or folder

Move the mouse around. If you reach the edge of your mouse pad and need to move the mouse farther, lift the mouse and place it 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. This is called clicking.

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

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To... Do this...

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

Move an object on the computer display.

For more information about how to adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, right-hand or left-hand configuration, and other mouse settings, see the “Customizing” chapter in your online User Guide. For instructions on how to clean the mouse, see “Cleaning the mouse” on page 55.

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

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. This is called clicking and dragging.

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Using optical drives

Features

Your optical drive has the following basic components:

Flip-down door Eject button

Loading an optical disc

To insert an optical disc:

1 Press the eject button on the optical disc drive.

Important

When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure that the label side is facing up. If the disc has two playable sides, place the disc so the name of the side you want to play is facing up.

2 Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up. 3 Press the eject button to close the tray.

Identifying optical drive types

Your computer may contain one of the following drive types. Press the drive’s eject button, then look on the front of the drive’s disc tray for one or more of the following logos:

If your optical drive has this logo...

Your drive type is...

CD-RW

Use your drive for...

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, and accessing data.

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

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

If your optical drive has this logo...

Your drive type is...

DVD/CD-RW

DVD

DVD+RW

DVD R/RW

Double layer DVD+RW

Use your drive for...

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, and recording video and data to CDs and DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.

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

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and data to CDs and double layer DVD+R discs. Note: To use the double layer capability of the double layer recordable DVD drive, the blank DVDs you purchase must state Double Layer, Dual Layer, or DL. Using other types of blank media will result in less capacity.

RECORDER

DVD-RAM/-RW

Blu-ray Disc

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

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, playing Blu-ray Discs, accessing data, and recording video and data to CDs, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and Blu-ray discs.

Playing discs

Playing a CD

play these CDs on your computer.

A standard compact disc (CD) can hold an entire album of digital songs and can be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive.

Use a music program or Windows Media Player on your computer to:

• Play music CDs

• Create MP3 music files from your music CDs

• Edit music track information

• Use your music files to build a music library

For more information about playing CDs, see your online User Guide.

Playing a DVD

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Important

Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to

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

Playing a Blu-ray Disc

Blu-ray Disc is a high-capacity optical disc that can store much more data than a DVD. A dual-layer Blu-ray Disc can hold 50 GB of files, about 23 hours of standard-definition video, or about nine hours of high-definition video. Blu-ray Discs can be played on a Blu-ray-compatible player or a Blu-ray drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing Blu-ray Discs, see your online User Guide.

Creating discs

Recording to optical discs

You can use the disc burning program on your computer to copy tracks from a music CD to your hard drive, copy or create data discs, create music CDs, create video DVDs, and more. For more information about creating CDs and DVDs, see your online User Guide.

Creating audio and video files

You can create audio and music files, either from scratch or from music CDs. You can also create video files from home video. For more information, see your online User Guide.

Copying optical discs

You can copy optical discs to make backups of your data. For more information, see your online User Guide.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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.

SMC/XD memory slot

CF I/II/MD slot

SD/MMC Serial slot

MS Serial slot

USB ports One-touch

Copy

button

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Memory card types

The memory card reader supports several memory card types. To determine which types are supported by your card reader and the slots to use for each type of card, examine the face plate of the reader. Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, the E: and F: drives), so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.

Using a memory card

Caution

Before inserting a memory card into a slot, make sure that the slot is

empty, or you could damage the card reader.

To insert a memory card:

1 Insert the memory card into the appropriate memory

card slot.

2 To access a file on the memory card, click (Start),

then click Computer. Double-click the drive letter (for example, the

To remove a memory card:

• Pull the memory card out of the slot.

E: drive), then double-click the file name.

Caution

Remove the memory card from the reader before you turn off the computer.

Important

Do not use the Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar to remove the memory card, or you will have to restart the computer to re-enable the memory card reader.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Adjusting the volume

You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls or the Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of specific sound devices in your computer.

To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls:

• If you are using external speakers, turn the knob on the

front of the speakers.

-OR-

Use the mute and volume control buttons on the keyboard. For more information, see “Using the

keyboard” on page 19.

To adjust the volume from Windows:

1 Click (Volume) on the taskbar. The volume control

slider opens.

2 Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and down

to decrease volume.

3 To mute the volume, click (Mute). To restore volume,

click it again.

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4 To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The Volume

Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag

sliders for individual devices.

Tip

Adjust the Windows Sounds slider to change system sounds volume independently of general volume (such as the volume used for music and game sounds).

5 Click × in the top-right corner of the window to close it.

Help

For more information about adjusting the volume, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type adjusting volume in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Configuring the audio jacks

If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks. This means that they 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. To use the audio jacks for something other than the default audio device, you need to configure the audio jacks.

To configure the audio jacks:

Shortcut

Start Á Control Panel Á Hardware and Sound Á Advanced

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

jack(s).

2 Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control

Panel window opens.

3 Click Hardware and Sound, Sound, the Playback tab,

then click Configure.

-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.

4 Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the audio

jacks for your speaker setup.

Installing a printer, scanner, or other device

Important

Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the

device documentation and installation instructions.

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

“Checking Out Your Computer” on page 5.

), Universal Serial Bus (USB),

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IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and hot-swapping, which means that your computer will usually

recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the appropriate port. When you use an IEEE 1394 or USB device for the first time, your computer will prompt you to install any software the device needs. After doing this, you can disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.

Help

For more information about installing peripheral devices, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type installing devices in the Search box, then press E

NTER.

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

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

CHAPTER4

Upgrading Your Computer

• Preventing static electricity discharge

• Opening the case

• Closing the case

• Replacing the color panel

• Installing memory

• Adding or replacing an optical disc drive

• Replacing the memory card reader

• Adding or replacing a hard drive

• Adding or replacing an expansion card

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

Preventing static electricity discharge

Warning

To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network cables before opening the case.

To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes of the power supply.

The components inside your computer are extremely sensitive to static electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge (ESD).

Before opening the computer case, follow these guidelines:

• Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most

electronics stores) and attach it to a bare metal part of your computer.

• Turn off yo ur co mputer.

• Touch a bare metal surface on the back of the computer.

• Unplug the power cord and the modem and network

cables.

Caution

ESD can permanently damage electrostatic discharge-sensitive components in your computer. Prevent ESD damage by following ESD guidelines every time you open the computer case.

Before working with computer components, follow these guidelines:

• Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors,

plastic, and packing foam.

• Remove components from their antistatic bags only

when you are ready to use them. Do not lay components on the outside of antistatic bags because only the inside of the bags provide electrostatic protection.

• Always hold expansion cards by their edges or their

metal mounting brackets. Avoid touching the edge connectors and components on the cards. Never slide expansion cards or components over any surface.

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Opening the case

Your computer case provides easy access to internal components.

Removing the left side panel

Warning

To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer, then unplug the power cord and modem cable before opening the case.

To remove the left side panel:

1 Follow the instructions in “Preventing static electricity

discharge” on page 34.

2 Shut down your computer, then disconnect the power

cord and modem, network, and all peripheral device cables.

3 Press the power button for ten seconds to drain any

residual power from your computer.

4 Remove the two thumbscrews on the back edge of the

left side panel.

Thumbscrew

5 Slide the side panel toward the back of your computer,

then pull the panel away from your computer.

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

Removing the right side panel

Warning

To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer, then unplug the power cord and modem cable before opening the case.

To remove the right side panel:

1 Make sure that the left side panel has already been

removed by following the instructions in “Removing the

left side panel” on page 35.

2 Remove the two Phillips screws on the back edge of the

right side panel.

Phillips screw

3 Slide the side panel toward the back of your computer,

then pull the panel away from your computer.

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Removing the front bezel

Tip

The bezel is the front “face” piece of your computer that has the optical

drive faces and the brand logo. It must be removed for some upgrading tasks.

To remove the front bezel:

1 Remove the side panels by following the instructions in

“Removing the left side panel” on page 35 and “Removing the right side panel” on page 36.

2 Press the three bezel release tabs on the left side of the

computer, then swing the left side of the bezel slightly away from the computer.

Bezel release tabs

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

3 On the right side of the computer, press the three bezel

release tabs toward the outside until the bezel is released, then pull the front bezel off the computer.

Caution

If the tabs were pressed correctly, the bezel should be easily removed. If it does not move easily, make sure that the tabs have been pressed far enough to release the bezel.

Bezel release tabs

Closing the case

Replacing the front bezel

To replace the front bezel:

1 Slide the tabs on the bezel into the slots on the front of

the computer until the tabs snap into place.

2 Replace the side panels that you removed previously by

following the instructions in “Replacing the side panels”

on page 39.

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Replacing the side panels

To replace the side panels:

1 Make sure that all internal cables are arranged inside the

computer so they will not be pinched when you close the computer.

2 Slide the side panels toward the front of the computer

until the backs of the side panels are flush with the back of the computer.

3 Secure the right side panel with the two Phillips screws

you removed previously, then secure the left side panel with the two thumbscrews you removed previously.

4 Reconnect the cables and power cord.

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

Replacing the color panel

To replace the color panel on the front bezel:

1 Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in

“Removing the front bezel” on page 37.

2 Press the lower panel release tabs up, and press the

upper panel release tabs inward. The color panel should slide out easily.

Tab s Tab s

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3 Slide the new color panel into position, then firmly press

it against the front bezel until it clicks into place.

4 Reinstall the front bezel by following the instructions in

“Replacing the front bezel” on page 38.

Installing memory

When you upgrade the computer memory, make sure that you install the correct type of memory module for your computer. Your computer uses DIMM memory.

To install or replace a memory module:

1 Remove the left side panel by following the instructions

in “Removing the left side panel” on page 35.

2 For more stability, place your computer on its side. To

avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface.

3 Find the memory slots on your system board.

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

4 If you are removing a memory module from a memory

slot, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module and remove it.

- OR -

If you are adding a memory module to an empty memory slot, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory slot.

5 Align the notch on the new module with the notch in the

memory slot and press the module firmly into the slot. The tabs on the sides of the memory slot should secure the memory module automatically.

6 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in

“Replacing the side panels” on page 39.

7 Return your computer to its upright position. 8 Reconnect the cables and the power cord. 9 Turn on your computer. Windows starts and the

Windows desktop appears.

10 Click (Start), right-click Computer, then click

Properties. The amount of memory in your computer

is displayed.

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Adding or replacing an optical disc drive

Tools

You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace an optical drive.

To add replace an optical drive:

1 Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in

“Removing the front bezel” on page 37.

2 If you are installing a new drive (not replacing an old

one), remove the two drive retention screws in the drive bay, then go to Step 7. For the location of the screws, see the photo in Step 5.

Important

The color and shape of your replacement drive’s front cover may

vary from your original drive.

3 If you are replacing an existing drive, disconnect the

cables from the drive, noting their locations and orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive.

Drive data cable Drive power cable

4 Note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the

jumper on the new drive to be the same.

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

5 Remove the two drive retention screws.

Drive retention screws

6 Slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay.

7 Slide the new drive into the drive bay, line up the screw

holes on the drive bay with the screw holes on the drive, then replace the two drive retention screws.

Important

Make sure that the optical drive’s screw holes are lined up with the correct holes in the drive bay. If the drive screws are mounted through the wrong holes, the front of the drive will protrude too far out the front of the case for the front bezel to be reinstalled.

8 Reconnect the drive cables using your notes from Step 3,

or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

9 Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in

“Replacing the front bezel” on page 38.

10 Replace the side panels by following the instructions in

“Replacing the side panels” on page 39.

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Replacing the memory card reader

Tools

You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the memory card reader.

To replace the memory card reader:

1 Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in

“Removing the front bezel” on page 37.

2 Firmly press the top bezel release tab. The release tab is

in the top of the case, between the power supply and the optical drive.

Tip

The top bezel is the plastic piece that forms the top of your computer case. You must remove it to perform maintenance on the memory card reader.

Top bezel release tab

3 Slide the top bezel toward the back of the computer

about 3/4 inch, then remove it from your computer.

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

4 Unplug the cables connected to the card reader, and

slide cables out of the clips that hold them down. Make note of the cable locations.

5 Remove the screw that secures the card reader to the

computer, then remove the card reader.

Screw

6 Slide the new card reader into place, then secure it with

the screw you removed previously.

7 Plug the appropriate cables into the card reader. 8 Place the top bezel on top of the computer, then slide the

bezel toward the front of the computer until it clicks into place.

9 Reinstall the front bezel by following the instructions in

“Replacing the front bezel” on page 38.

10 Reinstall the side panels by following the instructions in

“Replacing the side panels” on page 39.

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Adding or replacing a hard drive

To add or replace a hard drive:

Tools

You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace a hard drive.

1 Remove the left side panel by following the instructions

in “Removing the left side panel” on page 35.

2 Disconnect and label all hard drive cables, noting their

locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive.)

Drive data cable Drive power cable

3 If you are replacing a drive, remove the screws that

secure the hard drive to the hard drive cage, then slide the old hard drive out of the cage.

Hard drive screws

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

4 If you are replacing a drive, note any jumper settings on

the old drive and set the jumper on the new drive to be the same.

- OR -

If you are adding a new drive, set the jumper as instructed by the drive’s user guide.

5 Slide the new hard drive into the cage, then secure it to

the cage using either the two screws you removed previously or mounting screws provided with your new drive.

6 Connect the drive cables. If you are replacing a drive, use

your notes from Step 2.

7 Replace the left side panel by following the instructions

in “Replacing the side panels” on page 39.

8 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord. 9 Turn on your computer.

10 If you are using the new hard drive as your primary

drive, install Windows using the operating system DVD that came with your computer. For more information on restoring your system, see “Recovering your system” on

page 88.

Adding or replacing an expansion card

To add or replace an expansion card:

1 Remove the left side panel by following the instructions

in “Removing the left side panel” on page 35.

2 If you are replacing an expansion card, disconnect any

cables that are attached to the card, noting their locations and orientation. (You may need to reconnect the cables after you install the new card.)

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3 Remove the Phillips screw that secures either the metal

slot cover or the old expansion card.

4 If you are replacing an expansion card, remove the old

card. You can slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to loosen the card, but do not bend the card sideways.

Caution

Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion card. Touching the contacts can cause electrostatic damage to the card.

5 Install the new card into the expansion slot. You can

slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to help insert the card, but do not bend the card sideways.

6 If you have just replaced an expansion card, reconnect

the expansion card cables (if any) using your notes from

Step 2. If you have added a new expansion card, connect

its cables according to its user guide.

7 Secure the new expansion card to the case using the

screw you removed previously.

8 Replace the left side panel by following the instructions

in “Replacing the side panels” on page 39.

CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer

CHAPTER5

Maintaining Your

Computer

• Setting up a maintenance schedule

• Caring for your computer

• Cleaning your computer

• Updating Windows

• Using BigFix

• Managing hard drive space

• Scheduling maintenance tasks

• Moving from your old computer

CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

Setting up a maintenance schedule

Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule.

Maintenance task Weekly Monthly When

Create system recovery discs

Check for viruses X X X

Run Windows Update X X

Manage hard drive space X

Clean up hard drives X X

Scan hard drive for errors X X

Defragment hard drive X X

Back up files X X X

Clean computer case and peripheral devices

Creating system recovery discs

You should create your system recovery discs as soon as possible. For instructions, see “Creating recovery discs” on

page 89.

needed

As soon as possible

(one time only)

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Caring for your computer

To extend the life of your computer:

• Be careful not to bump or drop your computer, and do

not put any objects on top of it. The case, although strong, is not made to support extra weight.

• When transporting your computer, we recommend that

you put it in the original packaging materials.

• Keep your computer away from magnetic fields.

Magnetic fields can erase data on hard drives.

• Never turn off your computer when the drive indicator

is on because data on the hard drive could be lost or corrupted.

• Avoid subjecting your computer to extreme temperature

changes. The case can become brittle and easy to break in cold temperatures and can melt or warp in high temperatures. Damage due to either extreme is not covered by your warranty. As a general rule, your computer is safest at temperatures that are comfortable for you.

• Keep all liquids away from your computer. When spilled

onto computer components, almost any liquid can result in expensive repairs that are not covered under a standard warranty.

• Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt

can clog the internal mechanisms and can lead to permanent damage to the computer.

• Do not block the ventilation fan slots. If these slots are

blocked, your computer may overheat, resulting in unexpected shutdown or permanent damage to the computer.

• When storing your computer for an extended period of

time, unplug AC power.

CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

Cleaning your computer

Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put together a computer cleaning kit:

• A soft, lint-free cloth

• An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like

extension

• Cotton swabs

• An optical disc drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

Warning

When you shut down your computer, the power turns off, but some electrical current still flows through it. To avoid possible injury from electrical shock, unplug the power cord, modem cable, and network cable from the wall outlets.

• Always turn off your computer and other peripheral

devices before cleaning any components.

• Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean your computer and

other parts of your system. Do not use household abrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damage the finish on components.

• Your computer is cooled by air circulated through the

vents on the case, so keep the vents free of dust. With your computer turned off and unplugged, brush the dust away from the vents with a damp cloth. Be careful not to drip any water into the vents.

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Cleaning the keyboard

You should occasionally clean the keyboard to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.

To clean the keyboard:

1 Use an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like

extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.

2 If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off your

computer and turn the keyboard upside down. Let the liquid drain, then let the keyboard dry before trying to use it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it.

Cleaning the monitor

Caution

A flat-panel display is made of specially coated glass and can be scratched

or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based glass cleaners.

To clean the monitor:

• To clean an LCD flat panel monitor, use a soft cloth and

water to clean the screen. Dampen the cloth (never apply liquid directly to the screen), then wipe the screen with the cloth.

• To clean a CRT monitor, use a soft cloth and glass cleaner

to clean the monitor screen. Squirt a little cleaner on the cloth (never directly on the screen), then wipe the screen with the cloth.

Cleaning the mouse

If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across the computer screen or becomes difficult to control precisely, cleaning the mouse will likely improve its accuracy.

To clean the mouse:

• Wipe the bottom of the mouse with a damp, lint-free

cloth.

CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

Cleaning optical discs

Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs) get dirty from frequent handling.

To clean an optical disc:

1 Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle,

using a product made especially for the purpose.

Updating Windows

Windows Update helps you keep your computer up-to-date. Use Windows Update to choose updates for your computer’s operating system, software, and hardware. New content is added to the site regularly, so you can always get the most recent updates and fixes to protect your computer and keep it running smoothly. Windows Update scans your computer and provides you with a tailored selection of updates that apply only to the software and hardware on your computer.

For information on running Windows Update, see “Windows Update” in your online User Guide. Windows Update can also be controlled through the Windows Security Center. For more information, see “Protecting Your Computer” in your online User Guide.

Help

For more information about Windows Update, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type windows update in the Search Help box, then press E

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Using BigFix

BigFix monitors your computer for problems and conflicts. It automatically gathers information about the latest bugs, security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet. Whenever BigFix detects a problem, it alerts you by flashing the blue taskbar icon. To fix the problem, click on that icon to open BigFix.

To start BigFix:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System

Tools, then click BigFix.

2 To learn more about BigFix, click Help, then click

Tutorial.

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CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

Managing hard drive space

Windows provides several utilities you can use to check hard drive space, delete unnecessary files, defragment files, and back up files.

Checking hard drive space

To check hard drive space:

Shortcut

Start Á Computer Á right-click drive Á Properties

1 Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer

window opens.

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2 Right-click the drive that you want to check for available

file space, then click Properties. Drive space information appears.

Deleting unnecessary files

Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space.

To delete unnecessary files:

Shortcut

Start Á Computer Á right-click drive Á Properties Á Disk Cleanup

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System

Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog

box opens.

CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

2 Click one of the options:

• My files only cleans only the folders for the

currently logged in user.

• Files from all users on this computer cleans all

folders.

The Disk Cleanup dilalog box opens.

3 Click to select the types of files you want to delete, then

click OK. The types of files you indicated are deleted.

Help

For more information about keeping the hard drive free of

unnecessary files, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type disk cleanup in the Search Help box, then press E

Checking the hard drive for errors

The Error-checking program examines the hard drive for physical flaws and file and folder problems. This program corrects file and folder problems and marks flawed areas on the hard drive so Windows does not use them.

If you use your computer several hours every day, you probably want to run Error-checking once a week. If you use your computer less frequently, once a month may be adequate. Also use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive problems.

To check the hard drive for errors:

1 Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer

window opens.

2 Right-click the drive that you want to check for errors,

click Properties, then click the Tools tab.

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3 Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked

for errors. This process may take several minutes.

Important

Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used. If you try to check your hard drive for errors, you see a prompt asking you if you want to scan the hard drive later (the next time you restart your computer). If you see this prompt, click Schedule disc check.

After Windows has finished checking the drive for errors, it provides a summary of the problems that it found.

4 Correct any problems that are found by following the

on-screen instructions.

5 Click OK.

Help

For more information about checking the hard drive for errors, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type checking for disk errors in the Search Help box, then press E

Defragmenting the hard drive

When working with files, sometimes Windows divides the file information into pieces and stores them in different places on the hard drive. This is called fragmentation, and it is normal. In order for your computer to use a file, Windows must search for the pieces of the file and put them back together. This process slows the hard drive performance.

Disk Defragmenter organizes the data on the drive so each file is stored as one unit rather than as multiple pieces scattered across different areas of the drive. Defragmenting the information stored on the drive can improve hard drive performance.

While Disk Defragmenter is running, do not use your keyboard or mouse because using them may continuously stop and restart the defragmenting process. Also, if you are connected to a network, log off before starting Disk Defragmenter. Network communication may stop the defragmentation process and cause it to start over.

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Tip

Because defragmenting a drive may take hours to complete (depending on the size of the drive being defragmented) , consider starting the process when you will not need the computer for several hours.

CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

To defragment the hard drive:

1 Disconnect your computer from the network. 2 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System

Tools, then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk Defragmenter dialog box opens.

3 Click Defragment now. This process may take hours to

complete, depending on the size of the drive being defragmented.

Help

For more information about defragmenting the hard drive, click

Start, then click Help and Support. Type defragmenting in the Search Help box, then press E

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Backing up files

Backing up files and removing them from the hard drive frees space for new files on the hard drive. It also protects you from losing important information if the hard drive fails or you accidentally delete files.

You should back up your files regularly to a writable optical disc (if you have a recordable drive). Use a backup device, such as a recordable disc drive, to do a complete hard drive backup.

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To bac k up files:

1 Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer

window opens.

2 Right-click the drive that you want to back up, click

Properties, then click the Tools tab.

3 Click Backup Now, then click Run a file backup now. 4 Follow the on-screen instructions to select a backup

storage location and the files and folders to back up.

Help

For more information about backing up files, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type backup in the Search Help box, then press E

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CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

Scheduling maintenance tasks

Task Scheduler lets you schedule maintenance tasks such as running Disk Defragmenter and checking your drives for errors.

Important

Your computer must be on during scheduled tasks. If your computer is off,

scheduled tasks will not run.

To start the Task Scheduler:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System

Tools, then click Task Scheduler. The Task Scheduler dialog box opens.

2 Click Create Basic Task for basic tasks or click Create

Task for more complex tasks, then follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up and scheduling the task.

Help

For more information about scheduling tasks, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type task scheduler in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

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Moving from your old computer

Transferring files and settings automatically

You can move your files, folders, software settings, and user account settings (such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings) from your old computer to your new one using Windows Easy Transfer, providing your old computer uses Windows XP or Windows Vista.

While using Windows Easy Transfer, you will not be able to run other tasks on the computers.

Important

If your old computer does not use Windows XP or WindowsVista, you must manually move your data by using a writeable disc, flash drive, or external hard drive.

To move files and settings from your old computer:

1 If you want to transfer program settings to your new

computer, install those programs on the new computer before running Windows Easy Transfer. Windows Easy Transfer copies only the software’s settings, not the software itself, to the new computer.

2 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System

Tools, then click Windows Easy Transfer. The Windows

Easy Transfer dialog box opens.

3 Click Next, click Start a new transfer, then follow the

on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.

Help

For more information about transferring files, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type transferring files in the Search Help box, then press E

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CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

Transferring files and settings manually

You can manually transfer your personal data files by copying them to removable media, such as a writable disc, an external hard drive, a network location, or a flash drive.

Finding your documents

Ma ny program s save your pe rsonal d ata fil es in the Documents or My Documents folder. Look in your old computer’s documents folder for personal data files.

To find files in the documents folder:

1 In Windows Vista, click (Start), then click

Documents. The Documents folder opens and displays many of your saved personal data files. Go to Step 4.

- OR -

In Windows XP, click Start, then click My Documents. The My Documents window opens and displays many of your saved personal data files. Go to Step 4.

- OR -

In Windows 98, Windows Me, or Windows 2000, double-click the My Computer icon on the desktop. Go to the next step.

2 Double-click the C:\ drive icon. 3 Double-click the Documents or My Documents folder.

The My Documents window opens and displays many of your saved personal data files.

4 Copy your personal data files to removable media or to

another computer on your network.

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Finding other files

Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data files. For more information, see “Using Windows” in your online User Guide.

You can often identify different data file types by looking at the file’s extension (the part of the file name following the last period). For example, a document file might have a .DOC extension and a spreadsheet file might have an .XLS extension.

File type File usually ends in...

Documents .DOC, .TXT, .RTF, .HTM, .HTML, .DOT

Spreadsheets .XLS, .XLT, .TXT

Pictures .JPG, .BMP, .GIF, .PDF, .PCT, .TIF, .PNG, .EPS

Movies .MPEG, .MPG, .AVI, .GIF, .MOV

Sound and music .WAV, .CDA, .MP3, .MID, .MIDI, .WMA

To find files using Find or Search:

1 In Windows Vista, click (Start), then click Search. The

Search Results window opens.

- OR -

In Windows XP, click Start, then click Search. The Search Results window opens.

- OR -

In Windows 98, Windows Me, or Windows 2000, click Start, Find or Search, then click For Files or Folders. The Search Results window opens.

2 Type the filename you want to search for, then

press E

NTER. The search results are displayed.

3 To learn about more search options, click Help.

CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer

CHAPTER6

Troubleshooting

• Error messages

• Internet and networking

• Power

• Display

• Printing

• Optical discs

• Memory card reader

• Mouse

• Keyboard

• Files

• Memory

• Audio

• Passwords

• Expansion cards

• Media Center

• Checking for device problems

• Recovering your system

• Technical support

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

Safety guidelines

While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines:

Warning

To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your computer

problem if:

• Power cords or plugs are damaged

• Liquid has been spilled into your computer

• Your computer was dropped

• The case was damaged

Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer technician.

Warning

Never open your computer case while your computer is turned on and

while the modem cable, network cable, and power cord are connected.

Warning

Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal components. For more information about preventing damage from static electricity, see “Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 34.

Try these steps first

If you have problems with your computer, try these things first:

Warning

To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your

computer problem if:

• Power cords or plugs are damaged

• Liquid has been spilled into your computer

• Your computer was dropped

• The case was damaged Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer technician .

• Check all cable connections, including power.

• If an error message appears on the screen, write down

the exact message. The message may help Customer Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem.

• If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the

installation procedures you performed and make sure that you followed each instruction.

• If an error occurs in a program, see the program’s

printed documentation or the online help.

Help

For more information about troubleshooting, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press E

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Error messages

Error message Action

“Insufficient disk space”

“Data error” See “You get a “Data error” message” on

“General failure reading drive C”

“Operating system not found”

“Unable to locate host”

“Download Error” See “You get a “Download Error” message

“Memory error” See “You see a “Memory error” message”

“Not enough memory”

See “You get an “Insufficient disk space”

error message” on page 81.

page 82.

See “The hard drive cannot be accessed,

or you see a “General failure reading drive C” error message” on page 82.

See “You get an “Operating system not

found” error message” on page 82.

See “You see an “Unable to locate host”

message and are unable to browse the Internet” on page 72.

when Media Center tries to update the Program Guide” on page 86.

on page 83.

See “You see a “Not enough memory”

error message” on page 84.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

Internet and networking

Internet

If you do not find a solution to your problem in this section, the issue may be networking related. See “Networking” on

page 76 for more information.

You cannot connect to the Internet

• If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that

the modem cable is securely plugged into the Ethernet network jack. See more troubleshooting at “Modem

(cable or DSL)” on page 73.

- OR -

If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. See more troubleshooting at

“Modem (dial-up)” on page 74.

• Make sure that your account with your Internet service

provider (ISP) is set up correctly. For help, contact your ISP technical support.

• Your ISP may be having connection problems. Contact

your ISP technical support to determine whether the Internet outage is widespread (a problem they are trying to solve).

Help

For more information about troubleshooting Internet

connections, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type

troubleshooting connections in the Search Help box, then press E

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You see an “Unable to locate host” message and are unable to browse the Internet

• You may have typed the URL (Web address) incorrectly.

Check the URL, then enter it again, or try a different URL.

• Your Web browser may be experiencing problems. Close

your Web browser, then restart it. If that does not allow you to connect, restart your computer.

• The problem may be with your network, not the Internet

itself. Check your network cables and network devices (such as switches, routers, and hubs).

• Your ISP may be having connection problems. Contact

your ISP technical support to determine whether the Internet outage is widespread (a problem they are trying to solve).

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People are sending you e-mails, but you have not received them

• Click the Receive or Send and Receive button in your

e-mail program. This checks your mail server for incoming e-mail.

• Make sure that your account with your Internet service

provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP for technical support.

E-mails you send are returned as undeliverable

• Check the spelling of the e-mail address you are sending

e-mail to. A valid 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. E-mail addresses never contain spaces and are not case-sensitive.

• If possible, contact the intended recipient by using

another method, then ask them to verify their e-mail address.

Modem (cable or DSL)

My computer cannot connect to the Internet.

• Make sure that your modem is connected to the network

jack.

• See the documentation that came with your modem for

additional troubleshooting information.

• Contact your modem manufacturer for technical

support.

Modem (dial-up)

See also “Internet and networking” on page 72.

Your modem does not dial or does not connect

• Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the

modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack.

• Make sure that your computer is connected to the

telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone.

• Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your

telephone line, then check for a dial tone by plugging a working telephone into the telephone wall jack.

• Make sure that call waiting is disabled before using the

modem. Contact your telephone service provider to get the correct code to temporarily disable the service.

• Make sure that the modem dialing properties are set

correctly.

To check the dialing properties:

1 Click (Start), type modem, then press ENTER. 2 If the Location Information dialog box opens, enter

the information for your area, then click OK.

3 Click the Dialing Rules tab, click the location from

which you are dialing, then click Edit.

4 Make sure that all settings are correct.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

Help

For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type dialing in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

• Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping

sounds), which is a common problem that can cause the modem to connect at a slower rate, interrupt downloads, or even disconnect. You can also call your telephone service and have the telephone line checked for noise or low line levels.

• Try another telephone line (either a different telephone

number in your house or a telephone line at a different location). If you can connect on this line, call your telephone service.

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You cannot connect to the Internet

• The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact your

ISP for technical support.

• Review the troubleshooting information under “Internet

and networking” on page 72.

Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K

Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise, telephone service provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may lower the speed even further.

The modem is not recognized by your computer

• Use the modem cable that came with your computer.

Some telephone cables do not meet required cable standards and may cause problems with the modem connection.

• Restart your computer.

• Run Windows modem diagnostics.

To run modem diagnostics:

1 Click (Start), type modem, then press ENTER. 2 Click the Modems tab, then click Properties. 3 Click the Diagnostics tab, then click Query Modem.

If information about the modem appears, the modem passed diagnostics. If no modem information is available, a white screen appears with no data, or if you get an error such as port already open or the modem has failed to respond, the modem did not pass diagnostics.

Help

For more information about modem troubleshooting, click Start,

then click Help and Support. Type modem troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press E

The modem is noisy when it dials and connects

To turn down the modem volume:

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1 Click (Start), type modem, then press ENTER. 2 Click the Modems tab, then click Properties.

Networking

You cannot see the other computers on your network

• If a network cable is connected to your computer, make

• Make sure that the other computers are turned on.

• If you are using a router, make sure that it is turned on.

• If you are using a router, restart it by unplugging it from

• Make sure that all computers on your network have the

• If you assigned IP addresses to the computers, make sure

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

3 Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker

volume control.

4 Click OK twice to close the dialog boxes.

sure that the other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub, or other network device.

Most routers have lights that indicate they are working. For more information, see your router’s documentation.

power for five seconds.

same workgroup name and Subnet Mask.

that all computers have different IP addresses. For home networks, IP addresses should be 192.168.N.N where N is a number you assign between 0 and 254. The first N should be the same for all computers on your network, and the second N should be different for all computers on your network.

Your wired network is running slower than you expect

• If your network is running slower than you expect, check

the speed of each component. For best results, all components should be standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps). Components comprising a mixture of those speeds will result in your network running at the speed of the slowest component.

• For more troubleshooting help, see the documentation

for your network components.

Help

For more information about network troubleshooting, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type network troubleshooting in the Search

Help box, then press E

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Power

Your computer will not turn on

Display

The screen resolution is not correct

The computer is on, but there is no picture

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• Make sure that the power cord is connected to an

AC power source and to your computer, and that your computer is turned on. If your power cables are connected to a power strip, make sure it is turned on.

• Test the outlet by plugging in a working device, such as

a lamp.

• Make sure that the power cord is free from cuts or

damage, and r eplace any damaged cables.

• Change the screen resolution in Windows. For

instructions, see your online User Guide.

• Make sure that the computer is not in Standby

(power-saving) mode.

• Make sure that the monitor is connected to a power

outlet and to a video port on your computer, then make sure that the monitor is turned on. If the monitor is on, its power LED should be on.

• Adjust the monitor’s brightness and contrast controls.

For more information, see the monitor’s documentation.

• Check the video cable for bent or damaged pins.

• Connect a display that you know works (such as a

monitor from another computer) to your computer. If the display still works, the original monitor is faulty. If the display does not work, the computer’s video card (if installed) is faulty.

The color is not uniform

• Make sure that the display warms up for at least

The text on the display is dim or difficult to read

• Adjust the brightness and contrast controls.

• Change the display settings. For instructions, see your

• For more information about display types, see your

then click Help and Support. Type screen resolution in the Search Help box, then press E

Printing

The printer will not turn on

• Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

30 minutes before making a final judgment about color uniformity.

online User Guide.

display and video card documentation.

Help

For more information about changing the screen resolution, click Start,

NTER.

AC power source.

The printer is on but will not print

• Make sure that the Print to file box is not checked in

the Print dialog box.

• If the printer you want to print to is not the default

printer, make sure that you have selected it in the printer setup.

To set a default printer:

1 Click (Start), type printer, then press ENTER.

Control Panel opens and lists available printers.

2 Right-click the printer you want to be the default

printer, then click Set as Default Printer.

• Reinstall the printer driver. See your printer’s user guide

for instructions.

• Wait until files have been printed before sending

additional files to the printer.

• If you print large files or many files at one time, you may

want to add additional memory to the printer. See the printer documentation for instructions on adding additional memory.

• Contact your printer manufacturer’s technical support.

Help

For more information about printer troubleshooting, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type printer troubleshooter in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

Optical discs

Optical discs include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

The computer does not recognize a disc or the disc drive

• Make sure that the disc label is facing up, and make sure

that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For information on cleaning the disc, see “Cleaning optical

discs” on page 56.

• Update the device driver. For instructions, see “Checking

for device problems” on page 87.

• Your computer may be experiencing some temporary

memory problems. Restart your computer.

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An audio disc does not produce sound

• Make sure that the Windows volume controls are turned

up (and mute is turned off) and that any attached speakers are turned on and connected correctly.

• Make sure that the disc is label side up, and make sure

that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For information on cleaning the disc, see “Cleaning optical

discs” on page 56.

A movie disc will not play

• Make sure that the disc is label side up, and make sure

that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For information on cleaning the disc, see “Cleaning optical

discs” on page 56.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

• The regional code of the movie disc may not match your

drive’s regional code. Play only discs with a regional code for your region. The DVD regional code for the United States and Canada is 1, and the regional code for Mexico is 4. The Blu-ray regional code for North and South America is A, although many (if not most) Blu-ray movies are region-free.

• Update the device driver. For instructions, see “Checking

for device problems” on page 87.

• Your computer may be experiencing some temporary

memory problems. Restart your computer.

Memory card reader

Drive letters for the memory card slots do not appear in the Computer window

• The memory card reader may have been temporarily

uninstalled using the Remove Hardware icon in the system tray. Restart your computer, and it will recognize the card reader again.

Mouse

The mouse does not work

The mouse works erratically

• Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly.

• Restart your computer.

• Try a mouse you know is working to make sure that the

mouse port works.

• Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean,

damp cloth. Make sure that the optical sensor is clean and free of debris.

• You may be using the mouse on a transparent, reflective,

metallic, or glossy surface. Your mouse uses optical sensors that do not work correctly on these surfaces. Use a mouse pad or a surface with a non-glossy texture, such as fabric.

• The mouse pad may have a printed or fabric pattern on

it that interferes with your mouse. Use a different mouse pad.

Keyboard

The keyboard does not work

• Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in

correctly.

• Clean the keyboard by using an aerosol can of air with

a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.

• Try a keyboard that you know works to make sure that

the keyboard port works.

Liquid spilled in the keyboard

• Turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard. Wipe

off the keyboard, blow the inside dry with a can of compressed air, then turn the keyboard upside down to drain any remaining liquid. Let the keyboard dry for several hours before using it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it.

Files

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You get an “Insufficient disk space” error message

• Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk

Cleanup. For instructions, see “Deleting unnecessary

files” on page 59.

Help

For more information about file management, click Start, then

click Help and Support. Type file management in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

• Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the Recycle Bin

icon, then clicking Empty Recycle Bin.

Caution

All deleted files will be lost when you empty the Recycle Bin.

• Save your files to another drive. If the hard drive is full,

copy any files not regularly used to backup media, then delete them from the hard drive.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

A file was accidentally deleted

• If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key,

or if the Recycle Bin has been emptied since the file was deleted, the file cannot be restored.

To restore deleted files:

1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. 2 Right-click the file you want to restore, then click

Restore. The file is restored to the place where it was originally deleted from.

Help

For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start,

then click Help and Support. Type System Restore in the Search Help box, then press E

You get a “Data error” message

NTER.

• This may be the result of a defective area on the hard

drive. To fix hard drive problems, run the error checking program. For instructions on fixing hard drive problems, see “Checking the hard drive for errors” on page 83.

The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you see a “General failure reading drive C” error message

• If your computer has been subjected to static electricity

or physical shock, you may need to reinstall the operating system. See “Recovering your system” on

page 88.

You get an “Operating system not found” error message

• Your computer is unable to detect the hard drive. Check

cable connections. For instructions on opening your computer case, see “Opening the case” on page 35.

• A USB flash drive or a USB portable music player is

connected to one of your computer’s USB ports. Unplug the USB device, then restart your computer.

• Your hard drive has no operating system installed on it,

or the operating system files cannot be recognized because they have become corrupted or erased. See

“Recovering your system” on page 88.

You need to restore your computer to a working condition

• See “Recovering your system” on page 88.

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Checking the hard drive for errors

Use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive problems. Error-checking examines the hard drive for file and folder problems, then corrects the data problems that it finds.

To check the hard drive for errors:

1 Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer

window opens.

2 Right-click the drive that you want to check for errors,

click Properties, then click the Tools tab.

3 Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked

for errors. This process may take several minutes.

Important

After Windows has finished checking the drive for errors, it provides a summary of the problems that it found.

4 Correct any problems that are found by following the

on-screen instructions.

5 Click OK.

Memory

then click Help and Support. Type memory error in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.

You see a “Memory error” message

• Run the Memory Diagnostic Tool. Click (Start), type

Help

For more information about checking the hard drive for errors, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type checking for disk

errors in the Search Help box, then press E

Help

For more information about troubleshooting memory errors, click Start,

Memory Diagnostic Tool, then press ENTER. Click

Restart now and check for problems. Your computer

restarts and runs the memory diagnostics.

NTER.

Audio

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

You see a “Not enough memory” error message

• Close all programs, then restart your computer.

• If you continue to receive this error message, consider

adding more memory to your computer.

You are not getting sound from the speakers

• Make sure that the volume controls are turned up and

not muted. For more information, see “Adjusting the

volume” on page 28.

• If you are using external speakers:

• Make sure that the speakers are turned on, and check

the speaker connections. See your speakers’ user guide for more troubleshooting tips.

• Make sure that your computer’s universal audio jacks

are configured correctly. For more information, see

“Configuring the audio jacks” on page 30.

• If you are trying to play an audio disc, see “Optical discs”

on page 79.

Help

For more information about sound troubleshooting, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type sound troubleshooter in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

Passwords

Your computer does not accept your password

• Windows passwords are case-sensitive. Make sure that

APS LOCK is turned off, then retype the password.

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Expansion cards

The computer does not recognize an expansion card

• Restart your computer.

• Make sure that you have installed the required software.

For more information, see your expansion card’s documentation.

• Remove the card from your computer’s expansion slot,

then reinstall the card.

Media Center

This section only covers problems relating to Media Center mode. Media Center mode is available only on Windows Vista Home Premium and Ultimate versions.

Help

For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click

Help and Support. Type Media Center in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV

Many factors can significantly affect the video quality:

• Cable connections—Loose cables can lower video

quality. Check all cable connections.

• Display type—The Media Center is best viewed on

computer displays. Other types of display devices, including TVs, may provide lower quality video.

• Type of connection used—The connection type has an

affect on the video quality. Your computer has one or more video outputs. Use the highest quality output your TV and computer supports:

• A/V cables (basic)

• S-Video (fair, but not optimized for computer video

display)

• VGA (good)

• DVI (better)

• HDMI (best)

• Quality of video cables—Poor quality video cables can

cause problems. Gateway recommends using high-quality video cables.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

• Screen resolution—Many TVs cannot display the high

resolution that your computer’s video signal uses, and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the computer’s screen resolution to 800 × 600 or 640 × 480. For more information about changing the screen resolution, see your online User Guide.

• Age of the TV—Newer TVs usually have more advanced

features, produce a better quality picture, and support higher screen resolutions.

• Type of TV

• CRT TVs may have a slight flicker.

• Plasma TVs may experience image burn-in after

extended use.

• LCD TVs use the same technology as your computer’s

flat panel display.

You want to change monitor settings to get better TV or DVD image quality

• Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and

saturation. For more information, see the display’s user guide.

You need to burn programs that were recorded with your computer to a DVD using Media Center

• Media Center saves recorded programs in the DVR-MS

format. You can burn a DVR-MS file to a DVD with DVD recording (burning) software and with Media Center itself. For more information, see the Media Center online help.

You want to play recorded programs on other computers

• A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be replayed on

another computer running Media Center or on any computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). The non-Media Center computer must also have at least Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or later, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update.

You get a “Download Error” message when Media Center tries to update the Program Guide

• You must be connected to the Internet to update the

Program Guide. Make sure that your computer is connected to the Internet. For information about manually updating the Program Guide, see the Media Center online help.

www.gateway.com

Checking for device problems

Faulty devices or corrupt device drivers can cause a variety of problems on your computer. Checking the condition of system devices and the status of their drivers can help pinpoint the problem.

To check for device problems:

1 Click (Start), type device manager, then press

ENTER. Device Manager opens.

2 Examine the list of computer device types. A device type

with problems have a yellow triangle or red octogon indicating a problem or a failed condition.

3 Click the + s ymb ol to t he left of th e d evi ce ty pe to expa nd

the list of devices. The faulty device is marked with a yellow (problems) or red (failed) icon.

4 To update the device driver (a common solution to many

device problems), right-click the device, click Update Driver Software, then click Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the on-screen

prompts.

- OR -

To check for specific problems, right-click the device, then click Properties and examine the information within each of the tabs. Write down this information for future reference and troubleshooting. It may also be useful information to have available if you call Customer Care.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

Recovering your system

You can solve most computer problems by following the information in “Troubleshooting” on page 69 or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com also involve reinstalling some or all of the computer’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions.

Caution

To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you should create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible. Recovery discs take some time to create, but for long-term reliability, the effort is worth it. For instructions, see “Creating recovery discs” on page 89.

To r ecover your system:

1 Create recovery discs as soon as you can.

You can use these discs later for recovering your system from significant hardware and software problems. For instructions, see “Creating recovery discs” on page 89.

2 Perform minor fixes.

If only one or two items of software or hardware have stopped working correctly, the problem may be solved by reinstalling the software or the device drivers. To recover software and drivers that were pre-installed at the factory, see “Recovering pre-installed software and

drivers” on page 91. For instructions on reinstalling

software and drivers that were not pre-installed, see that product’s documentation or technical support Web site.

3 Revert to a previous system condition.

If reinstalling software or drivers does not help, then the problem may be solved by returning your system to a previous state when everything was working correctly. For instructions, see “Returning to a previous system

condition” on page 92.

4 Reset your system to its factory condition.

If nothing else has solved the problem and you want to reset your system to factory condition, see “Returning

your system to its factory condition” on page 93.

. Problem solving may

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Creating recovery discs

If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall the Windows operating system and factory-loaded software and drivers. To reinstall using discs, you must create the set of recovery discs beforehand.

To create recovery discs:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click

Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery Management opens.

2 To create recovery discs for the hard drive’s entire

original contents, including Windows Vista and all factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create factory default disc.

- OR -

To create recovery discs for only the factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create driver and

application backup disc.

Important

We r ecom mend that you cre ate e ach t ype o f reco very disc as soo n

as possible.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

The Create Backup Disc dialog box opens.

This dialog box tells you the number of blank, recordable discs you will need to complete the recovery discs. Make sure that you have the required number of identical, blank discs ready before continuing.

3 Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the Burn to

list, then click Next. The first disc begins recording, and you can watch its progress on the screen.

When the disc finishes recording, the drive ejects it.

4 Remove the disc from the drive and mark it with a

permanent marker.

Important

Write a unique, descriptive label on each disc, such as “Windows

Recovery Disc 1 of 2.” or “Apps/Drivers Recovery disc.”

5 If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc when

prompted, then click OK. Continue recording discs until the process is complete.

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Recovering pre-installed software and drivers

As a troubleshooting step, you may need to reinstall the software and device drivers that came pre-installed on your computer from the factory. You can recover using either your hard drive or the backup discs you have created.

• New software—If you need to recover software that did

not come pre-installed on your computer, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.

• New device drivers—If you need to recover device

drivers that did not come pre-installed on your computer, follow the instructions for updating drivers in

“Checking for device problems” on page 87.

To recover your pre-installed software and drivers:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click

Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery Management opens.

- OR -

If you are recovering from your driver and application recovery disc, insert it into the disc drive, then go to Step 3 after the Gateway Application Recovery main menu opens.

2 Click the Restore tab, then click Reinstall

applications/drivers. The Gateway Application

Recovery main menu opens.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

3 Click Contents. A list of software and device drivers

opens.

4 Click the install icon for the item you want to install,

then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall.

Returning to a previous system condition

Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as restore points. In most cases of hard-to-resolve software problems, you can return to one of these restore points to get your system running again.

Windows automatically creates an additional restore point each day, and also each time you install software or device drivers.

Help

For more information about using Microsoft System Restore, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type windows system restore in the Search

Help box, then press E

NTER.

To return to a restore point:

1 Click (Start), Control Panel, System and

Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center. The Backup and Restore Center opens.

www.gateway.com

2 On the left side of the window, click Repair Windows

using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a

restore point dialog box opens.

3 Click the restore point you want, click Next, then click

Finish. A confirmation message box appears.

4 Click Yes. Your system is restored using the restore point

you specified. This process may take several minutes, and may restart your computer.

Returning your system to its factory condition

In case your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall everything to return your system to its factory condition. You can reinstall using either your hard drive or the recovery discs you have created.

Caution

This complete recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then reinstalls Windows and all software and drivers that were pre-installed on your system. If you can access important files on your hard drive, back them up now.

• If you can still run Windows Vista, see “Recovering from

within Windows Vista” on page 94.

• If you cannot run Windows Vista and your original hard

drive is still working, see “Recovering from the hard drive

during startup” on page 95.

• If you cannot run Windows Vista and your original hard

drive has been completely re-formatted or you have installed a replacement hard drive, see “Recovering from

your recovery discs” on page 95.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting

Recovering from within Windows Vista

To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software

and drivers:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click

Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery Management opens.

2 Click the Restore tab, then click Restore system to

factory default. The Confirm Restoration dialog box

opens.

3 Click Ye s, then click Start. A dialog box displays

information about the hard drive that the operating system will be recovered to.

Caution

Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.

4 Click OK. The recovery process begins by restarting your

computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. This process may take a while, but a Gateway Recovery Management screen shows you its progress.

When the recovery has finished, a dialog box prompts you to restart your computer.

5 Click OK. Your computer restarts. 6 Follow the on-screen prompts for first-time system

setup.

Gateway DX4200, DX4640, DX4710, DX4720, DX4800 Quick Reference Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

About This Reference

About this guide

For more information

Accessing the online User Guide

To access your User Guide:

Gateway contact information

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

Front

Back

Working safely and comfortably

Reducing eye strain

Setting up your computer desk and chair

Sitting at your computer

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

Preparing power connections

Protecting from power source problems

Checking the voltage selection

To set the voltage selection switch:

Connecting to a broadband modem or network

Connecting a dial-up modem

To connect the modem:

Starting your computer

To start your computer:

Waking up your computer

Turning off your computer

To put your computer to sleep:

To turn off your computer:

Restarting (rebooting) your computer

To restart your computer:

Using the keyboard

Using the mouse

Using optical drives

Features

Loading an optical disc

To insert an optical disc:

Identifying optical drive types

Playing discs

Playing a CD

Playing a DVD

Playing a Blu-ray Disc

Creating discs

Recording to optical discs

Creating audio and video files

Copying optical discs

Using the memory card reader

Memory card types

Using a memory card

To insert a memory card:

To remove a memory card:

Adjusting the volume

To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls:

To adjust the volume from Windows:

Configuring the audio jacks

To configure the audio jacks:

Installing a printer, scanner, or other device

Upgrading Your Computer

Preventing static electricity discharge

Opening the case

Removing the left side panel

To remove the left side panel:

Removing the right side panel

To remove the right side panel:

Removing the front bezel

To remove the front bezel:

Closing the case

Replacing the front bezel

To replace the front bezel:

Replacing the side panels

To replace the side panels:

Replacing the color panel

To replace the color panel on the front bezel:

Installing memory

To install or replace a memory module:

Adding or replacing an optical disc drive

To add replace an optical drive: