Gateway M-16, M-24, M-26, M-63, M-73 Quick Start Manual
...
NOTEBOOK
REFERENCEGUIDE
®
Contents
Chapter 1: About This Reference . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Accessing your online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Contacting Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Gateway model and serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
For more information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Notebook . . . . . 5
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Keyboard area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
LCD panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 17
Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Sitting at your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . .19
Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . . .22
Connecting the optional dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Restarting (rebooting) your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Using the status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
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Contents
Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Using the optional fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Running the TouchStrip Tutorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Enrolling your fingerprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Using the Fingerprint Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Using the password bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Using the fingerprint reader features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Using the optional multimedia panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Using the optional webcam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Adjusting the brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Bluetooth radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Chapter 4: Using Drives and Accessories . . . . 55
Using the DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Using a DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Adding and removing an Express Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Installing a printer or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television . 63
Adjusting the display properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Using the projector or monitor for a presentation . . . . 66
Chapter 5: Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
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Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Maximizing battery performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Changing notebook power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Changing the power plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Chapter 6: Traveling with Your Notebook . . . 81
Packing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Traveling by air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Additional tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
Chapter 7: Maintaining Your Notebook . . . . . 87
Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Maintaining the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Storing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Creating recovery discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . .95
Returning to a previous system condition . . . . . . . . . . . .96
Returning your system to its factory condition . . . . . . . .97
Chapter 8: Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . 101
Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
Adding or replacing memory modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
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Contents
Replacing the hard drive kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Chapter 9: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Diskette drive (external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Express Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Networks (wired) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Networks (wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
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Appendix A: Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . 139
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
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Contents
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CHAPTER1
About This Reference
• About this guide
• Accessing your online User Guide
• Gateway contact information
• Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity
• For more information
1
CHAPTER 1: About This Reference
About this guide
This guide includes information and maintenance instructions
that are specific to your model of Gateway notebook. For all
other notebook information, see your online User Guide.
Accessing your online User Guide
In addition to this guide, your online 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
• Using the Internet
• Protecting your files
• Playing and recording media
• Networking
To access your online User Guide:
• Click (Start), All Programs, then click Gateway
Documentation.
Gateway contact information
Contacting Gateway Customer Care
Your Setup Guide contains information about contacting
Gateway Customer Care.
Gateway model and serial number
A label on the bottom of your notebook contains information
that identifies your notebook model and its features. Gateway
Customer Care will need this information if you call for
assistance.
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Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity
Important
The label shown in this section is for informational purposes only. Label
information varies by model, features ordered, and location.
The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the
bottom of your notebook includes the product key code for
your operating system.
For more information
For more information about your notebook, visit Gateway’s
Support page at www.gateway.com
on your notebook’s label. The Support page also has links to
additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications.
or the Web address shown
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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference
4
CHAPTER2
Checking Out Your Notebook
• Front
• Left
• Right
• Back
• Bottom
• Keyboard area
• LCD panel
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook
Front
Battery charge indicator
Powe r indic ator
Headphone jack
Microphone jack
Component Icon Description
Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack.
Headphone jack Plug amplified speakers or headphones into this
jack. The built-in speakers are turned off when
speakers or headphones are plugged into this
jack.
Power indicator
Battery charge
indicator
n
LED on - Notebook is on.
n
LED blinking - Notebook is in Sleep or Hybrid
Sleep mode.
n
LED off - Notebook is off.
n
LED blue - Battery is fully charged.
n
LED purple - Battery is charging.
n
LED blinking red - Battery charge is very low.
n
LED solid red - Battery is malfunctioning.
Important: This LED only lights up when your
notebook is connected to AC power or the
battery charge is very low.
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Left
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Ethernet jack
HDMI out jack
(optional)
USB ports
Ventilation fan
Memory card reader
Wireless network switch
Express Card slot
Component Icon Description
Ethernet jack Plug an Ethernet network cable into this jack.
Memory card
reader
Plug the other end of the cable into a cable
modem, DSL modem, or an Ethernet network
jack. For more information, see “Connecting to a
broadband modem or network” on page 22.
Insert a memory card from a digital camera,
MP3 player, PDA, or cellular telephone into the
memory card reader. For more information, see
“Using the memory card reader” on page 59.
The memory card reader supports Memory
Stick®, Memory Stick Pro®, Mini Secure
Digital®, MultiMediaCard™,
RS-MultiMediaCard™, Secure Digital™, and
xD-Picture Card™cards.
Important: RS-Multimedia Card and Mini
Secure Digital cards require the use of an
adapter that is available with the media.
HDMI out jack
(optional)
USB ports Plug USB devices (such as a diskette drive, flash
HDMI Plug an HDMI device, such as a high definition
television, into this optional jack. For more
information, see “Viewing the display on a
projector, monitor, or television” on page 63.
drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or
mouse) into these ports.
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook
Component Icon Description
Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.
Express Card slot Insert one Type 54 Express Card into this slot. For
Wireless network
switch
Warning: Do not work with the notebook resting
on your lap. If the air vents are blocked, the
notebook may become hot enough to harm your
skin.
Caution: Do not block or insert objects into
these slots. If these slots are blocked, your
notebook may overheat resulting in unexpected
shutdown or permanent damage to the
notebook.
Caution: Provide adequate space around your
notebook so air vents are not obstructed. Do not
use the notebook on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface.
more information, see “Adding and removing an
Express Card” on page 61.
Enable or disable the optional IEEE 802.11
wireless network radio and optional Bluetooth
radio. The switch must be in the enable position
to turn either radio on or off using the FN+F2 or
FN+F6 buttons. For more information, see
“Turning your wireless radio on or off” on
page 51.
Warning: Radio frequency wireless
communication can interfere with equipment on
commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations
require wireless devices to be turned off while
traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11 and
Bluetooth communication devices are examples
of devices that provide wireless communication.
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DVD drive
USB port
Component Icon Description
DVD drive Insert CDs or DVDs into this drive. For more
USB port Plug a USB device (such as a diskette drive, flash
information, see “Using the DVD drive” on
page 56. To determine the type of drive in your
notebook, examine the drive tray’s plastic cover
and compare the logo to those listed in
“Identifying drive types” on page 56.
drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or
mouse) into this port.
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Back
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook
Modem jack
(optional)
Kensington lock slot
Power connector
Monitor port
Component Icon Description
Modem jack
(optional)
Kensington™
lock slot
Monitor port Plug a n analog VGA monitor or projecto r into this
Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.
Plug a dial-up modem cable into this optional
jack. For more information, see “Connecting the
optional dial-up modem” on page 23.
Secure your notebook to an object by
connecting a Kensington cable lock to this slot.
port. For more information, see “Viewing the
display on a projector, monitor, or television” on
page 63.
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Batter y
Batter y
latch
Hard drive bay
Battery lock
Memory
bay
Component Icon Description
Battery latch Slide to release the battery. For more information, see
Battery Provides power when the notebook is not plugged into
Battery lock Slide to unlock the battery. For more information, see
Memory bay Memory modules are located in this bay. For more
“Changing batteries” on page 71.
AC power.
“Changing batteries” on page 71.
information, see “Adding or replacing memory
modules” on pag e 103.
Hard drive
bay
The hard drive is located in this bay. For more
information, see “Replacing the hard drive kit” on
page 107.
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook
Keyboard area
Keyboard area for select models
Power
button
Keyb oard
Speaker
Multimedia panel (optional)
Status indicators
Fingerprint reader
(optional)
Touchpad
Speaker
Component Icon Description
Keyboard Provides all the features of a full-sized, computer
keyboard. For more information, see “Using the
keyboard” on page 29.
Power button Press to turn the power on or off. You can also configure
Speakers Provide audio output when headphones or amplified
Multimedia
panel
(optional)
the power button for Sleep/Resume mode. For more
information on configuring the power button mode,
see “Changing advanced settings” on page 78.
speakers are not plugged in.
Use to control playback of CDs and DVDs. The panel
includes a capacitive volume control. For more
information, see “Using the optional multimedia panel”
on page 43.
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Component Icon Description
Tou ch pa d Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For more
Fingerprint
reader
(optional)
Status
indicators
information, see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on
page 40.
Provides enhanced security. For more information, see
“Using the optional fingerprint reader” on page 34.
Inform you when a drive is in use or when a button has
been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used. For
more information, see “Using the status indicators” on
page 27.
Keyboard area for select models
Power
button
Keyb oard
Speaker
Multimedia panel (optional)
Speaker
Status indicators
Fingerprint reader
(optional)
Touchpad
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook
Component Icon Description
Keyboard Provides all the features of a full-sized, computer
Power button Press to turn the power on or off. You can also configure
Speakers Provide audio output when headphones or amplified
Multimedia
panel
(optional)
Tou ch pa d Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For more
Fingerprint
reader
(optional)
Status
indicators
keyboard. For more information, see “Using the
keyboard” on page 29.
the power button for Sleep/Resume mode. For more
information on configuring the power button mode,
see “Changing advanced settings” on page 78.
speakers are not plugged in.
Use to control playback of CDs and DVDs. The panel
includes a capacitive volume control. For more
information, see “Using the optional multimedia panel”
on page 43.
information, see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on
page 40.
Provides enhanced security. For more information, see
“Using the optional fingerprint reader” on page 34.
Inform you when a drive is in use or when a button has
been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used. For
more information, see “Using the status indicators” on
page 27.
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LCD panel
Component Icon Description
Microphone (optional)
Webcam (optional)
Webcam status indicator (optional)
Microphone
(optional)
Webcam
(optional)
Webcam
status
indicator
(optional)
Use to talk through when making Voice over Internet
Protocol (VoIP) calls.
Important: The optional microphone is only available
when purchased with the optional webcam.
Use to let others see who they are communicating with
when making VoIP calls. For more information, see
“Using the optional webcam” on page 45.
Important: The optional webcam is only available
when purchased with the optional microphone.
Turns on when the webcam is turned on.
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook
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CHAPTER3
Setting Up and Getting Started
• Working safely and comfortably
• Connecting the AC adapter
• Connecting to a broadband modem or
network
• Connecting the optional dial-up modem
• Starting your notebook
• Turning off your notebook
• Restarting (rebooting) your notebook
• Using the status indicators
• Using the keyboard
• Using the optional fingerprint reader
• Using the EZ Pad touchpad
• Using the optional multimedia panel
• Using the optional webcam
• Adjusting the brightness
• Adjusting the volume
• Turning your wireless radio on or off
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Working safely and comfortably
Before using your notebook, 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.
• Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.
• Although notebooks are sometimes called “laptops,” do
not use your notebook while it rests on your unprotected
lap. Notebook operating temperatures can become quite
high, increasing the risk of burns to your legs. Instead,
use a laptop desk to protect your legs.
• Do not use the notebook on any soft, conforming
surface, such as your lap, a blanket, carpet, or a sofa. Soft
surfaces can block your notebook’s ventilation openings,
leading to overheating, permanent damage to your
notebook, and fire danger. Instead, place your notebook
on a rigid, hard surface, and make sure that you keep the
ventilation openings on the sides clear.
Warning
Do not use your notebook on a soft surface, such as your lap, a
blanket, carpet, or a sofa. You must keep your notebook’s ventilation
openings clear of obstructions, or your notebook may overheat,
increasing the risk of fire and personal injury.
Reducing eye strain
Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the
screen or shine directly into your eyes.
• Position the computer desk and 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 notebook in a dark room.
• Avoid focusing your eyes on your screen for long periods
of time. Every 10 or 15 minutes, look around the room,
and try to focus on distant objects.
• Where feasible, keep your head vertical while looking at
the screen. If you use an external keyboard, raise the
notebook so the top of its screen is no higher than eye
level.
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Setting up your computer desk and chair
When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make
sure that the desk is the appropriate height and the chair helps
you maintain good posture.
• Select a flat surface for your computer desk.
• Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands
and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you
use the keyboard and 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.
Sitting at your notebook
• 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.
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
Connecting the AC adapter
You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or your
notebook’s battery. The battery was shipped to you partially
charged. You should use the AC adapter right away to fully
charge the battery. Allow three hours for the battery to fully
charge.
Warning
Do not attempt to disassemble the AC adapter. The AC adapter has no
user-replaceable or user-serviceable parts inside. The AC adapter has dangerous
voltages that can cause serious injury or death. Contact Gateway about returning
defective AC adapters.
Caution
Make sure that you use the AC adapter that came with your notebook or
one of the same type purchased from Gateway. Replace the power cord if it
becomes damaged. The replacement cord must be of the same type and voltage
rating as the original cord or your notebook may be damaged.
Important
If the battery is not fully charged before you use your notebook on battery
power for the first time, the battery life may be much shorter than you expect.
If the battery life seems short even after being charged for three hours, the
battery may need to be recalibrated. For information on recalibrating the battery,
see “Recalibrating the battery” on page 72.
To connect the AC adapter:
1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.
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2 Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power
connector.
3 Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. The battery
charge indicator turns on (see “Front” on page 6 for the
location of the battery charge indicator). If the battery
charge indicator does not turn on, complete the
following steps until it turns on:
• Unplug the adapter from your notebook, then plug
it back in.
• Press FN+F1 to toggle the status lights on and off.
• Make sure the power cord is firmly attached to the
AC adapter.
• Plug the power cord into a different wall outlet.
4 When you finish using your notebook for the first time,
turn off your notebook and leave your notebook
connected to AC power until the battery charge indicator
turns blue.
Important
If the battery charge indicator does not turn blue after three hours,
contact Gateway Customer Care at the location shown on the Customer
Care label. For more information, see “Gateway contact information” on
page 2.
Protecting from power source problems
During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming
into your notebook can increase to levels far above normal
levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
notebook and peripheral devices by connecting them to a
surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents
them from reaching your notebook.
Warning
High voltages can enter your notebook through both the power cord and
the modem connection. To protect your notebook and avoid electrical shock, use
a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector that has
a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an
antenna/cable TV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge
protector and the modem.
Connecting to a broadband modem or network
Your notebook has a network jack that you can use to connect
to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired Ethernet network.
To connect to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired
Ethernet network:
1 Insert one end of the network cable into the network
jack on your notebook.
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Tip
When using a cable with a sleeve over the plug, pull the sleeve
back to make sure that the plug locks into the jack.
2 Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable
modem, DSL modem, or Ethernet network jack.
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