Gateway M-150S, M-150X, M-150XL, M-151S, M-151X Reference Manual

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NOTEBOOK

REFERENCEGUIDE

ORDINATEUR PORTABLE

GUIDE DU MATÉRIEL

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

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

Accessing your online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

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

Gateway model and serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 15

Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Sitting at your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . .17

Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . . .20

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

Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Using the status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Contents

System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using the optional fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Running the TouchStrip Tutorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Enrolling your fingerprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Using the Fingerprint Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Using the password bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Using the fingerprint reader features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Using the optional multimedia panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Using the optional webcam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Adjusting the brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Bluetooth radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Chapter 4: Using Drives and Accessories . . . . 51

Using the DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Using a DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Adding and removing an Express Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Installing a printer or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television . 59

Adjusting the display properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation . . . . 62

Ordering accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Chapter 5: Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

www.gateway.com

iii

Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Maximizing battery performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Changing notebook power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Changing the power plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Chapter 6: Traveling with Your Notebook . . . 77

Packing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Traveling by air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Additional tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Chapter 7: Maintaining Your Notebook . . . . . 83

Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Maintaining the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Storing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . .88

Using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95

Recovering your system to its factory condition . . . . . . .98

Recovering your system using the Windows DVD . . . . . .99

Chapter 8: Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . 101

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102

Adding or replacing memory modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Contents

Replacing the hard drive kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Diskette drive (external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Express Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Networks (wired) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Networks (wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

www.gateway.com

Appendix A: Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . 141

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Contents

CHAPTER1

About This Reference

• About this guide

• Accessing your 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 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

Important

The labels shown in this section are for informational purposes only. Label

information varies by model, features ordered, and location.

www.gateway.com

Gateway model and serial number

The 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.

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

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

or the Web address shown on your notebook’s label. The Support page also has links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications.

Online Support: Tech Support Phone: Hours: Model: S/No:

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

CHAPTER2

Checking Out Your Notebook

• Front

• Left

• Right

• Back

• Bottom

• Keyboard area

• LCD panel

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Front

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

■

LED on - Notebook is on.

■

LED blinking - Notebook is in Sleep or Hybrid Sleep mode.

■

LED off - Notebook is off.

Battery charge indicator

■

LED blue - Battery is fully charged.

■

LED purple - Battery is charging.

■

LED blinking red - Battery charge is very low.

■

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.

Microphone jack

Headphone jack

Battery charge indicator

Power indicator

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Left

Component Icon Description

Ethernet jack Plug an Ethernet network cable into this jack.

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 20.

Memory card reader

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 55.

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)

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 59.

USB ports Plug USB devices (such as a diskette drive, flash

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

USB ports

Ventilation fan

Express Card slot

Memory card reader

Wireless network switch

Optional HDMI out jack

Ethernet jack

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.

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.

Express Card slot Insert one Type 54 Express Card into this slot. For

more information, see “Adding and removing an

Express Card” on page 57.

Wireless network switch

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 47.

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.

Component Icon Description

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Right

Component Icon Description

DVD drive Insert CDs or DVDs into this drive. For more

information, see “Using the DVD drive” on

page 52. 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 52.

USB port Plug a USB device (such as a diskette drive, flash

drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into this port.

DVD drive

USB port

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Back

Component Icon Description

Modem jack (optional)

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

optional dial-up modem” on page 21.

Kensington™ lock slot

Secure your notebook to an object by connecting a Kensington cable lock to this slot.

Monitor port Plug an analog VGA monitor or projector into this

port. For more information, see “Viewing the

display on a projector, monitor, or television” on page 59.

Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

Power connector

Kensington lock slot

Monitor port

Optional modem jack

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Bottom

Component Icon Description

Customer Care label

Includes the Customer Care contact information. For more information, see “Gateway contact information”

on page 2.

Battery latch Slide to release the battery. For more information, see

“Changing batteries” on page 67.

Battery Provides power when the notebook is not plugged into

AC power.

Battery lock Slide to unlock the battery. For more information, see

“Changing batteries” on page 67.

Memory bay Memory modules are located in this bay. For more

information, see “Adding or replacing memory

modules” on page 103.

Hard drive bay

The hard drive is located in this bay. For more information, see “Replacing the hard drive kit” on

page 107.

Online Support: Tech Support Phone: Hours: Model: S/No:

Battery

latch

Hard drive bay

Battery lock

Battery

Customer

care label

Memory bay

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Keyboard area

Component Icon Description

Keyboard Provides all the features of a full-sized, computer

keyboard. For more information, see “Using the

keyboard” on page 26.

Power button Press to turn the power on or off. You can also configure

the power button for Sleep/Resume mode. For more information on configuring the power button mode, see “Changing advanced settings” on page 74.

Speakers Provide audio output when headphones or amplified

speakers are not plugged in.

Multimedia panel (optional)

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 40.

Touchp ad Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For more

information, see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on

page 37.

Status indicators

Power

button

Keyb oard

Touchpad

Optional multimedia panel

Optional fingerprint reader

Speaker

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Fingerprint reader (optional)

Provides enhanced security. For more information, see

“Using the optional fingerprint reader” on page 31.

Status indicators

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 25.

Component Icon Description

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

LCD panel

Component Icon Description

Microphone (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.

Webcam (optional)

Use to let others see who they are communicating with when making VoIP calls. For more information, see

“Using the optional webcam” on page 41.

Important: The optional webcam is only available when purchased with the optional microphone.

Webcam status indicator (optional)

Turns on when the webcam is turned on.

Optional microphone

Optional webcam

Optional webcam status indicator

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

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.

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.

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.

www.gateway.com

Setting up your computer desk and chair

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

• Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

• Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands

and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you use the keyboard and 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 slo uch for ward or lea n far back . Sit with 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.

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.

To connect the AC adapter:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

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 68.

www.gateway.com

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

2 Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable

modem, DSL modem, or Ethernet network jack.

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.

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.

www.gateway.com

Connecting the optional dial-up modem

Your notebook may have a built-in 56K modem that you can use to connect to a standard telephone line.

To connect the optional modem:

1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem

jack on your notebook.

2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone

wall jack.

Starting your notebook

Warning

To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger (for example, No. 24 AWG) UL-listed or CSA-certified telecommunication line cord for your dialup modem connection.

Important

The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.

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

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.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To start your notebook:

1 Lift the LCD panel. 2 Press the power button located above the keyboard.

3 If you are starting your notebook 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 peripheral devices, such as

printers, scanners, and speakers.

5 To open the main menu, click (Start). From that

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

Tip

For more information about changing the power button mode,

see “Changing advanced settings” on page 74.

Tip

For more information about connecting peripheral devices, see

“Installing a printer or other peripheral device” on page 58.

Tip

See the documentation that came with each device for its setup

instructions.

www.gateway.com

Waking up your notebook

When you have not used your notebook for several minutes or if you close the LCD panel without turning off your notebook, it may enter a power-saving mode called Sleep. While in Sleep mode, the power indicator flashes. If your notebook is in Sleep mode, press the power button to “wake” it up.

Turning off your notebook

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

Hibernate mode is an alternative to Sleep mode. In Hibernate mode, your notebook is turned completely off. When you wake your notebook from Hibernate mode, however, the programs that were running when your notebook entered Hibernate mode are running just as you left them.

To put your notebook to sleep:

• Click (Start), then click (power). The notebook

saves your session and partially shuts down to save power.

-ORPress F

N+F3.

To put your notebook into hibernation:

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

click Hibernate. The notebook saves your session and shuts down to save power.

Tip

For more information about Sleep mode, see “Changing power modes” on

page 71.

Tip

You can change the Sleep mode from the standard Sleep mode (default) to Hybrid Sleep. For more information about Sleep mode, see “Changing power

modes” on page 71.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To turn off your notebook:

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

click Shut Down. The notebook turns off.

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

If your notebook does not respond to keyboard, touchpad, or mouse input, you may have to close programs that are not responding. If closing unresponsive programs does not restore your notebook to normal operation, you may have to restart (reboot) your notebook.

To close unresponsive programs on your notebook:

1 Press CTRL+ALT+DEL. 2 Click Start Task Manager. The Windows Task Manager

dialog box opens.

3 Click the program that is not responding. 4 Click End Task. 5 Click X in the top-right corner of the Windows Task

Manager dialog box.

To restart your notebook:

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

click Restart. The notebook turns off, then turns on again.

Important

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

Important

If your notebook does not turn off immediately, complete the following steps until the notebook turns off:

1. Press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release it.

2. Unplug the power cord and remove the battery for more than 10 seconds.

www.gateway.com

Using the status indicators

Status indicators inform you when a drive is being used or when a button has been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used. The status indicators are located below the touchpad.

Important

If none of the indicators are on, you may need to press FN+F1 to toggle

the status indicators on.

Indicator Icon Description

Wireless network

■

LED on - Optional wireless IEEE

802.11 radio is turned on.

■

LED off - Optional wireless IEEE

802.11 radio is turned off.

Caps lock

■

LED on - Caps lock is turned on.

■

LED off - Caps lock is turned off.

Num lock

■

LED on - Numeric keypad is turned on.

■

LED off - Numeric keypad is turned off.

DVD drive

■

LED on - Drive is in use.

■

LED off - Drive is not in use.

Hard drive

■

LED blinking - Hard drive is being accessed.

■

LED off - Hard drive is not being accessed.

Hard drive

Caps lock

Num lock

Wireless network

DVD drive

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the keyboard

Your notebook features a full-size keyboard that functions the same as a desktop computer keyboard. Many of the keys have been assigned alternate functions, including shortcut keys for Windows, function keys for specific system operations, and the Num Lock keys for the numeric keypad.

Tip

You can attach an external keyboard to the notebook using a USB port. You

do not need to shut down the notebook to connect a USB keyboard.

Function keys/

System keys

Navigation keys

key

Windows key

Numeric keypad

Application key

Arrow keys

www.gateway.com

Key types

The keyboard has several different types of keys. Some keys perform specific actions when pressed alone and other actions when pressed in combination with another key.

Key type Icon Description

Numeric keypad Use these keys to type numbers

when the numeric keypad is turned on. Press FN+ to turn on the numeric keypad.

Function keys Press these keys labeled F1 to F12

to perform actions in programs. For example, pressing F1 may open help. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.

System keys Press these colored keys in

combination with the FN key to perform specific actions. For more information, see “System key

combinations” on page 28.

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor

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

FN key Press the FN key in combination

with a colored system key to perform a specific action.

Windows key Press this key to open the Windows

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

Application key Press this key for quick access to

shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

Arrow keys Press these keys to move the cursor

up, down, right, or left.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

System key combinations

When you press the FN key and a system key at the same time, your notebook performs the action identified by the text or icon on the key.

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

Toggle the status indicators on or off. For more information, see “Using the status

indicators” on page 25.

Turn the optional IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio on or off. For more information, see “Wireless Ethernet Networking” in your online User Guide. 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 communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication. Important: The wireless network switch must be in the ON position for this button to work. For more information, see “Left” on

page 7.

Enter Sleep mode or Hybrid Sleep mode. Press the power button to leave Sleep mode. For more information, see “Changing

notebook power settings” on page 72.

Toggle the notebook display in the following order:

■

The LCD

■

An external monitor or projector (a monitor or projector must be plugged into the monitor port or HDMI port on your notebook)

■

Both displays at the same time For more information, see “Viewing the

display on a projector, monitor, or television” on page 59.

www.gateway.com

Turn the optional Bluetooth radio on or off. 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. Bluetooth communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication. Important: The wireless network switch must be in the ON position for this button to work. For more information, see “Left” on

page 7.

Increase the LCD panel brightness above the normal brightest setting. Use this feature in bright lighting situations, such as outside in bright sunlight. Press a second time to decrease the brightness below the normal lowest brightness setting. Use this feature in dim lighting situations. Press a third time to return the display to the normal brightness setting. Important: Using this feature will affect battery performance.

Play or pause the CD or DVD.

Stop playing the CD or DVD.

Skip back one CD track or DVD chapter.

Skip ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Increase the brightness of the display.

Decrease the brightness of the display.

Increase volume. For more information, see

“Adjusting the volume” on page 45.

Decrease volume. For more information, see

“Adjusting the volume” on page 45.

Mute the sound. Press the key combination again to restore the sound. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on

page 45.

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

www.gateway.com

Using the optional fingerprint reader

Your notebook may include a fingerprint reader that provides enhanced security and convenience. The fingerprint reader is located between the left and right touchpad buttons.

Features include:

• Secure logon to Windows and fast user switching

between user accounts

• Password bank feature which records and replays

passwords used in Windows and Web-based applications

• Launch an application based on which finger you swipe

• A safe or folder for storing encrypted files that only a

user with a matching fingerprint can access

• Boot level security that requires a fingerprint

authentication before the system will boot to Windows

• Scrolling so you can use the fingerprint reader in place

of the touchpad

Running the TouchStrip Tutorial

Before using the fingerprint reader the first time, you should run the TouchStrip Tutorial which teaches you the correct method to use the fingerprint reader.

To run the TouchStrip Tutorial:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then

click Fingerprint Tutorial.

2 Click Next to proceed through the tutorial.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Enrolling your fingerprints

Before you can use the features of the fingerprint reader, you must enroll your fingerprints so your notebook can identify you.

To enroll your fingerprints:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then

click User Enrollment. The Welcome screen opens.

2 Click Next. The Finish screen opens. 3 Select one of the following options, then click Next.

• Enrollment to the biometric device—Select this

option to save your fingerprint to memory in the fingerprint reader. Use this option to prevent unauthorized use of your notebook even if the hard drive has been removed.

• Enrollment to the hard disk—Select this option to

save your fingerprint to the hard drive. If you plan to enroll more than 21 fingerprints, you must select this option.

The User Enrollment wizard opens.

www.gateway.com

4 If you want to run the TouchStrip Tutorial, leave the Run

interactive tutorial check box selected, then click Next. The TouchStrip Tutorial runs. After you have completed the tutorial, the Enrollment screen appears.

-ORIf you do not want to run the TouchStrip Tutorial, click to

uncheck the Run interactive tutorial check box, then click Next. The Enrollment screen appears.

5 Click the button above the finger you are enrolling. A

new box appears with three empty circles in it.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

6 Swipe your finger. A sample will be created and is

indicated by a fingerprint icon in one of the circles.

7 Repeat 6 two more times, then click Next. The Advanced

Security screen appears.

8 Type a password in the Backup password box, type the

same password in the Retype password box, then click Next.

9 Click Finish.

Using the Fingerprint Control Center

The Fingerprint Control Center lets the administrator of the notebook control how the fingerprint reader is used. You can:

• Add new fingerprints to the database

• Edit or delete fingerprints from the database

• Modify how fingerprints are used for logging onto the

notebook

• Modify how the fingerprint reader is used for scrolling

www.gateway.com

To use the Fingerprint Control Center:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then

click Control Center. The Fingerprint Control Center opens.

2 If you are logged into the notebook with administrator

privileges, click Elevate administrative privileges for user so you can make changes to the settings.

3 Click the yellow arrow in front of an option, then click the

option or setting you want to change.

Using the password bank

The password bank stores registrations to your favorite secure Web sites so that you can access them without having to re-enter your username and password each time you want to log into the site.

To create a registration for a Web site:

1 Go to the Web site using your Internet browser. 2 Log in using your username and password.

Tip

The password bank also works with many computer programs that

require entering a username and password.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

3 Swipe your already enrolled finger over the sensor. The

fingerprint reader menu opens.

4 Click Register. 5 Click on the dialog box or Web site sign in box.

To log on to a registered Web site:

1 Swipe your already enrolled finger over the sensor. The

fingerprint reader menu opens.

2 Click Registered Sites, then click the Web site you want

to log onto.

3 Your Internet browser opens and automatically logs you

onto the Web site.

Using the fingerprint reader features

For more information about the fingerprint reader and how to use its features, click (Start), All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then click Help.

www.gateway.com

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

The EZ Pad™ consists of a touchpad, two buttons, and a scroll zone.

When you move your finger on the touchpad, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction. You can use the scroll zone to scroll through documents. Use of the scroll zone may vary from program to program.

Touchpad

Left button

Right button

Scroll zone

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

You can use the EZ-Pad left and right buttons below the touchpad to select objects.

Tip

You can attach a mouse to the notebook using a USB port. You do not need

to shut down the notebook to connect a USB mouse.

Tip

For instructions on how to adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed,

right-hand or left-hand configuration, and other touchpad settings, see “Changing the mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online User Guide.

Tip

You may have received your notebook with the EZ Pad touchpad set to only accept clicking by using the touchpad buttons. You can change this feature to allow tapping on the touchpad to simulate clicking the left button. For more information, see “Changing the mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online User Guide.

To... Do this...

Move the pointer on the screen.

Move your finger around on the touchpad. If you run out of space and need to move the pointer farther, lift your finger, move it to the middle of the touchpad, then continue moving your finger.

Select an object on the screen.

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

Start a program or open a file or folder.

Position the pointer over the object. Press the left button twice in rapid succession. This action is called double-clicking.

www.gateway.com

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

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

Move an object on the screen.

Position the pointer over the object. Press the left button and hold it down, then use the touchpad to move (drag) the object to the appropriate part of the screen. Release the button to drop the object where you want it.

To... Do this...

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the optional multimedia panel

Button Description

Windows Hotstart—Turns on the notebook (if turned off) and open Media Center (Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate) or Windows Media Player (Windows Vista Home Basic). Important: You can use this button if the notebook is turned on, turned off, or in Sleep or Hibernate mode. Important: You cannot use this button if you are logged on as a guest.

Instant on Audio—Opens Media Center (Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate) or Windows Media Player (Windows Vista Home Basic).

Instant on Video—Opens Media Center (Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate) or the DVD player program (Windows Vista Home Basic).

Play or pause the CD or DVD.

Stop playing the CD or DVD.

Skip back one CD track or DVD chapter.

Skip ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

Windows Hotstart

Instant On Audio

Instant On Video

Play/Pause

Stop

Skip back

Skip ahead

Mute sound

Capacitive volume control

www.gateway.com

Using the optional webcam

You can use the optional webcam with many of the available Internet chat programs to add video and audio to your chat session. In addition, by using the software included with the webcam, you can take pictures or create video clips.

Mute the sound. Press again to restore the sound. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 45.

Capacitive volume control—Swipe your finger on the volume sensor strip to change the volume. To increase volume, move from the – towards the +. To decrease volume, move from the + towards the –. Tip:

■

You can start swiping at any point on the strip.

■

The duration of the swipe determines the amount of the change.

■

At the end of this swipe, if you keep your finger on the strip, the volume control continues to change in the same direction.

■

Tapping on the strip does not change the volume.

Button Description

Webcam

Status indicator

Microphone

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To use the webcam:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Camera Assistant

Software, then click Camera Assistant Software. The Camera Assistant Toolbar opens.

-ORRight-click (Camera assistant software) on the

taskbar, then click Show Toolbar. The Camera Assistant Toolbar opens.

Button Icon Description

Start camera

Turns on the camera and opens the preview screen.

Effects Adds a decoration or border to

your picture.

Properties Modifies properties such as

zoom, backlight compensation, brightness, and contrast.

Settings Selects the position of the toolbar

or modifies the picture, video, or audio settings.

Help Opens online help.

Important

If you do not see the toolbar, the Auto Hide setting may be turned on. Move your pointer around the outside of the screen until the toolbar appears.

www.gateway.com

2 Click (Start camera). The Camera Assistant opens.

3 Click one of the following:

Button Icon Description

Snapshot Take a picture of what is

currently in the preview screen.

Video recording

Create a video recording.

Audio recording

Create an audio recording.

Functions Change a setting or access

online help.

Resolution Change the size of the

picture.

Mute Turn audio capture on or

off.

Effects Add a decoration or

border to your picture.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Adjusting the brightness

To adjust screen brightness:

• Use the increase brightness and decrease brightness

keys on the keyboard. For more information, see “System

key combinations” on page 28.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

, then click

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility

Center window opens. Slide the Brightness control to the desired screen brightness.

Tip

For more information about using the webcam, click in the Camera Assistant Toolbar or click (Functions), then click Help in the Camera Assistant.

Tip

For more information about using the webcam while using an Internet chat service, see the help for that service.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see “Using the Windows Mobility Center” in your online User Guide.

www.gateway.com

Adjusting the volume

You can use the volume control to adjust the overall volume of your notebook.

To adjust the overall volume level using hardware

controls:

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

front of the speakers.

-ORUse the mute and volume control buttons on the

keyboard. For more information, see “System key

combinations” on page 28.

-ORUse the mute button and capacitive volume control on

the optional multimedia panel. For more information, see “Using the optional multimedia panel” on page 40.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

, then click

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility

Center window opens. Slide the Volume control to the desired volume level.

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.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

“Using the Windows Mobility Center” in your online User Guide.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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

click it again.

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

Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag

sliders for individual devices.

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

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).

www.gateway.com

Turning your wireless radio on or off

Your Gateway notebook may have a factory-installed wireless radio.

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio

Your notebook has an IEEE 802.11 radio for accessing the Internet through a wireless access point or communicating with other computers on a wireless Ethernet network.

To turn the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio on:

1 Enable the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio by sliding the

wireless network switch to the ON position. For the location of the wireless network switch, see “Left” on

page 7.

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.

Warning

In environments where the risk of interference to other devices or services is harmful or perceived as harmful, the option to use a wireless device may be restricted or eliminated. Airports, hospitals, and oxygen or flammable gas laden atmospheres are limited examples where use of wireless devices may be restricted or eliminated. When in environments where you are uncertain of the sanction to use wireless devices, ask the applicable authority for authorization prior to using or turning on the wireless device.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

2 If the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio does not turn on

automatically, press F

N + F2. The wireless status

indicator turns on. For the location of the wireless status indicator, see “Using the status indicators” on page 25.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

, then click

Windows Mobility Center. When the Windows Mobility Center window opens, click Turn wireless on.

To turn the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio off:

• Press FN + F2. The wireless status indicator turns off. For

the location of the wireless status indicator, see “Using

the status indicators” on page 25.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

, then click

Windows Mobility Center. When the Windows Mobility Center window opens, click Turn wireless off.

Disabling the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio

You should disable the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio while traveling by airplane to prevent it from being accidently turned on while in flight.

To disable the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio:

• Slide the wireless network switch to the OFF position to

disable both IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth. For the location of the wireless network switch, see “Left” on page 7.

Tip

For more information about using your notebook on a wireless network,

see “Wireless Ethernet Networking” in your online User Guide

www.gateway.com

Bluetooth radio

Your notebook may have a Bluetooth radio for communicating with another Bluetooth device, such as a printer, scanner, camera, MP3 player, headphone, keyboard, or mouse.

To turn the Bluetooth radio on:

1 Enable the Bluetooth radio by sliding the wireless

network switch to the ON position. For the location of the wireless network switch, see “Left” on page 7.

2 If the Bluetooth radio does not turn on automatically,

press FN + F6.

To turn the Bluetooth radio off:

• Press FN + F6.

Tip

For more information about using your notebook on a Bluetooth Personal Area Network, see “Bluetooth Networking” in your online User Guide

Help

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

NTER.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Disabling the Bluetooth radio

You should disable the Bluetooth radio while traveling by airplane to prevent it from being accidently turned on while in flight.

To disable the Bluetooth radio:

• Slide the wireless network switch to the OFF position to

disable both IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth. For the location of the wireless network switch, see“Left” on page 7.

CHAPTER4

Using Drives and Accessories

• Using the DVD drive

• Using the memory card reader

• Adding and removing an Express Card

• Installing a printer or other peripheral device

• Viewing the display on a projector, monitor,

or television

• Ordering accessories

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Using the DVD drive

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

Identifying drive types

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

If your drive has this logo...

This is your drive type...

Use your drive for...

DVD drive

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, and accessing data. You cannot use this drive to create CDs or DVDs.

Combination DVD/CD-RW drive

Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, and recording music and data to recordable CDs. You cannot use this drive to create DVDs.

Multi-format double layer DVD±RW drive

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

HD DVD drive

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

ROM/R/RW

www.gateway.com

Using a DVD drive

Using a tray-load DVD drive

[

To insert a CD or DVD:

1 Press the eject button on the DVD drive. After the tray

opens slightly, pull the disc tray completely open.

2 Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up, then

press down carefully on the disc until it snaps into place.

3 Push the tray in until it is closed.

Important

Prerecorded DVD discs and DVD drives contain regional codes that help control DVD title exports and help reduce illegal disc distribution. To be able to play a prerecorded DVD, the disc’s regional code and your DVD drive’s regional code must match.

The regional code on your DVD drive is determined by your notebook’s delivery address. The regional code for the United States and Canada is 1. The regional code for Mexico is 4. Your DVD drive’s regional code must match the regional code of the disc. The regional code for the disc is on the disc, disc documentation, or packaging.

Important

When you place a single-sided disc in the tray or slot, 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.

Tip

For information about cleaning a CD or DVD, see “Cleaning CDs or DVDs”

on page 87.

Eject button

Manual eject hole

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

To remove a CD or DVD:

1 Press the eject button on the DVD drive. After the tray

opens slightly, pull the disc tray completely open.

2 Carefully lift on the edges of the disc until it snaps off

of the spindle.

3 Push the tray in until it is closed.

Using a slot-load DVD drive

[

To insert a CD or DVD:

1 Place the disc in the slot with the label facing up.

2 Gently push the disc into the notebook until the

mechanism draws it in.

Tip

Your notebook must be turned on to remove CDs and DVDs using this method. If you do not want to turn on your notebook, manually eject the disc by inserting an opened paper clip into the manual eject hole.

Eject button

Manual eject hole

www.gateway.com

To remove a CD or DVD:

• Press the eject button on the DVD drive. The drive

mechanism pushes the CD or DVD out of the notebook.

Using the memory card reader

You can use memory cards to transfer pictures from a digital camera to your notebook. You can also use the memory card reader to transfer data between your notebook and a device that uses memory cards, such as a PDA, MP3 player, or cellular telephone.

Memory card types

The memory card reader supports Memory Stick®, Memory Stick Pro®, MultiMediaCard™, Secure Digital™, Mini Secure Digital™, RS-MultiMediaCard™, and xD-Picture Card™.

Tip

Important

RS-Multimedia Card and Mini Secure Digital cards require the use of an adapter that is available with the media.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Inserting a memory card

To insert a memory card:

• Insert the memory card into the memory card slot with

the label facing up and the arrow on the label pointing towards the notebook.

Using a memory card

To access a file on a memory card:

1 Click (Start), then click Computer. 2 Double-click the drive letter (for example, the E: drive),

then double-click the file name.

Removing a memory card

To remove a memory card:

1 Push the memory card into the notebook. The memory

card pops out slightly.

2 Pull the memory card out of the notebook.

Important

Do not use the remove hardware icon in the taskbar to remove the memory card. If you use the remove hardware icon, your notebook may not recognize your memory card reader until you restart your notebook.

www.gateway.com

Adding and removing an Express Card

Your notebook has an Express Card slot. This slot accepts one Type 54 Express Card. You do not need to restart your notebook when changing most cards because your notebook supports hot-swapping. Hot-swapping means that you can insert an Express Card while your notebook is running. If your Express Card does not work after hot-swapping, see the Express Card manufacturer’s documentation for further information.

To insert an Express Card:

• Push the card firmly into the Express Card slot, label-side

up, until the outer edge of the card is flush with the side of your notebook.

To remove an Express Card:

1 Turn off your notebook, then go to 5.

-ORDouble-click the remove hardware icon in the

taskbar. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box opens.

2 Click the Express Card name, then click Stop. The Stop a

Hardware device dialog box opens.

3 Click the Express Card name, then click OK. The Safe to

Remove Hardware dialog box opens.

4 Click OK. 5 Pull the Express Card out of your notebook.

Important

If the remove hardware icon does not appear on the taskbar, click

the show hidden icons button.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

Your notebook has one or more of the following ports: Universal Serial Bus (USB) and HDMI (digital audio/video). You use these ports to connect peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras to your notebook.

USB ports support plug-and-play and hot swapping, which means that your notebook will usually recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the appropriate port. When you use a USB device for the first time, your notebook will prompt you to install any software the device needs. After doing this, you can disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.

Connecting a USB device

Your notebook has USB ports for connecting devices such as a diskette drive, flash drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse.

Important

Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the device documentation and installation instructions.

Help

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

Help box, then press E

NTER.

Important

USB devices may have special installation instructions. See your USB device’s installation guide.

Important

For more information about using the USB port on your device, see your device’s documentation.

www.gateway.com

To connect your USB device to your notebook:

1 Connect one end of the USB cable to your device. 2 Connect the other end of the cable to a USB port on

your notebook.

Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television

You can use your notebook for giving presentations by connecting an external monitor, projector, or television to your monitor (VGA) or optional HDMI port. Your notebook supports simultaneous LCD and external display. Simultaneous display lets you control a presentation from your notebook at the same time as you face your audience.

To use a projector, monitor, or television:

1 Turn off your notebook. 2 If you are using the VGA port, connect one end of the VGA

cable to the monitor, projector, or television.

-ORIf you are using the HDMI port, connect one end of the

HDMI cable to the monitor, projector, or television.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

3 Plug the other end of the VGA cable into the monitor

port on your notebook.

-ORPlug the other end of the HDMI cable into the optional

HDMI port on your notebook.

4 Turn on your notebook. 5 Plug the projector’s, monitor’s, or television’s power cord

into an AC power source and turn it on. Windows recognizes the new hardware and the New

Display Detected dialog box opens.

6 Select the options for the projector, monitor, or

television, then click OK.

www.gateway.com

7 Press FN+F4 to switch between viewing the display on

the LCD panel, viewing the display on the projector, monitor, or television, and viewing the display on both the LCD panel and the projector, monitor, or television.

Adjusting the display properties

If the image on the projector, monitor, or television does not appear correctly, or if you want to use the display as an extension of your notebook desktop, you should adjust the display properties.

To adjust the display properties on a projector, monitor,

or television:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

2 Click (Change display settings). The Display

Settings dialog box opens.

Important

If a monitor, projector, or television is connected and you close the LCD panel, your notebook may turn off the LCD panel, but will not enter Sleep mode.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see “Using the Windows Mobility Center” in your online User Guide.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

3 Click monitor 2. 4 Adjust properties such as Resolution or Colors if

necessary.

5 To use the monitor, projector, or television as a “mirror”

(duplicate) of the notebook display (both displays have the same content), click to deselect the check box for Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor.

6 To use the monitor, projector, or television as an

extension of your desktop (increasing the size of your Windows desktop), click to select the check box for Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor. You can click and drag the “2” monitor icon to position it the same way the physical monitor is arranged on your desk.

7 Click OK.

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation

You can configure your notebook so the settings are correct each time you give a presentation.

To use a projector, monitor, or television for a

presentation:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

“Using the Windows Mobility Center” in your online User Guide.

www.gateway.com

2 Click (Change presentation settings). The

Presentation Settings dialog box opens.

3 Adjust properties such as Turn off screen saver and Set

the volume to if necessary.

4 Click OK. 5 Click Turn on to turn on the presentation settings. When

you are finished giving the presentation, click Turn off to return to your standard notebook settings.

Ordering accessories

To order accessories, visit www.gateway.com. Accessories may not be available in all localities.

Automobile/airplane power adapters

With an automobile/airplane power adapter, you can save battery power by plugging your notebook into an automobile cigarette lighter or an airplane in-flight power receptacle.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Batteries

If you run your notebook on battery power for extended periods, you may want to buy an additional battery so you can swap batteries when necessary. See “Changing batteries” on

page 67 for more information about using an additional

battery.

Carrying cases

Gateway has large-capacity carrying cases if you need additional space for accessories or supplies.

Hard drives

If you want to increase your internal storage space, try replacing your existing hard drive with a larger drive. See

“Replacing the hard drive kit” on page 107 for more

information.

Memory

Large programs, such as multimedia games or graphics programs, use a lot of memory. If your programs are running more slowly than you think they should, try adding more memory. See “Adding or replacing memory modules” on

page 103 for more information.

Printers

You can attach almost any type of printer to your notebook. The most common types are inkjet and laser printers, which print in color or black and white.

Inkjet printers and cartridges are relatively inexpensive, but they are slower than laser printers. Using an inkjet color printer, you can print pictures, banners, and greeting cards, as well as documents.

Laser printers and cartridges are more expensive, but they print much faster than inkjet printers. Laser printers are better than inkjet printers when you are printing large documents.

USB flash drive

Use a USB flash drive for storing files or transferring files to another computer.

CHAPTER5

Managing Power

• Monitoring the battery charge

• Recharging the battery

• Recalibrating the battery

• Extending battery life

• Changing notebook power settings

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

Monitoring the battery charge

Your new Gateway notebook is designed to provide an exceptional balance of performance and portability. Your notebook uses the latest chipset and mobile processor technologies to manage the processor speed and power consumption for a greater battery life experience. This design provides you with maximum performance when plugged into AC power balanced with optimized battery life when on battery power.

Closely monitor the battery charge. When the battery charge gets low, change the battery or connect to AC power immediately to prevent losing any unsaved work. To monitor the battery charge:

• Move the mouse pointer over the power cord icon

or battery icon in the taskbar. A message appears showing the remaining battery time and the current power plan.

• Wait for a Low Battery warning message to appear.

• Look at the battery charge status indicator.

If your battery charge indicator displays what looks like an inaccurate charge, you may need to recalibrate the battery.

Recharging the battery

The battery recharges while it is installed and your notebook is connected to AC power. While the battery recharges, the battery charge indicator turns on.

Tip

For more information about the battery charge status indicator,

see “Front” on page 6.

Tip

For more information about recalibrating the battery, see

“Recalibrating the battery” on page 68.

www.gateway.com

Changing batteries

To replace the battery:

1 If your notebook is on and is connected to AC power, go

to 2.

-ORIf your notebook is on and is not plugged into an AC

outlet, save your work and turn off the notebook.

2 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up. 3 Slide the battery lock to the unlocked position, then slide

the battery release latch.

4 Slide the battery out of the notebook.

5 Slide a recharged battery into the notebook until it snaps

into place.

6 Slide the battery lock to the locked position.

Warning

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

Replace only with a battery specifically manufactured for your Gateway notebook. Discard used batteries according to local hazardous material regulations.

The batteries used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mishandled. Do not disassemble, heat above 212°F (100°C), or incinerate. Dispose of used batteries promptly. Keep away from children.

Caution

If your notebook is connected to AC power you can change the battery while the notebook is turned on. If your notebook it is not plugged into an AC outlet, you must turn the notebook off while changing the battery.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

7 Turn your notebook over. 8 Open the LCD panel.

Recalibrating the battery

If your notebook unexpectedly goes into Sleep mode while you are using it but the battery charge is not low, you may need to recalibrate your battery. You should also recalibrate the battery periodically to maintain the accuracy of the battery gauge.

To recalibrate the battery using BIOS:

1 Connect the AC adapter, then turn on your notebook. 2 As soon as your notebook starts and you see a startup

screen, press F2. The BIOS Setup utility opens.

3 Open the Advanced menu. 4 Highlight Battery Auto Learning, then select Enabled

by pressing the spacebar.

5 Open the Exit menu, highlight Exit Saving Changes,

then press E

NTER.

6 Select Yes, then press ENTER.

The battery recalibration process begins and a screen opens showing you the progress. The entire process takes several hours.

When the recalibration has finished, the message “Press [Esc] key to exit” appears.

7 Press ESC. The battery charge indicator now displays an

accurate battery charge.

To recalibrate the battery without using BIOS:

1 Connect your notebook to AC power and let the battery

charge completely.

2 Disconnect the AC power and restart your notebook.

Important

Do not interrupt the battery recalibration process. If recalibration is

interrupted, you must start the process over again.

Important

Select models have the Battery Auto Learning utility programmed into the BIOS. If your notebook does not have this utility in BIOS, use the non-BIOS procedure.

www.gateway.com

3 Completely discharge the battery. 4 After the battery is completely drained, reconnect your

notebook to AC power.

5 Charge the battery completely until the battery status

indicator turns blue.

Extending battery life

Maximizing battery performance

To get maximum performance from your notebook battery, we recommend that you initially condition (fully charge and discharge) your new battery a few times during the first several weeks of use, to let it reach its maximum rated capacity.

Over the long term, use the battery at least once a month, even if it was kept in a cool, dry place for storage, but avoid frequent full discharges because this puts additional strain on the battery. Several partial discharges with frequent recharges are better for a lithium-ion battery than one complete discharge, and recharging a partially charged lithium-ion battery does not cause harm because there is no memory.

Conserving battery power

To conserve power while using the battery to power your notebook:

• Turn off wireless networking and Bluetooth.

• Dim the display as low as is comfortable.

• Disconnect all external devices, like USB devices.

• Remove Express Cards when you do not need them.

Many Express Cards use a small amount of power while inserted, even if they are not being used.

Important

If, after completing this procedure, the battery charge indicator still does not show an accurate charge, contact Gateway Customer Care at the location shown on the Customer Care label. For more information, see “Gateway contact

information” on page 2.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

• Select the Power saver power plan to get maximum

power savings.

• Close the LCD panel to turn off the display while you are

not using your notebook. The display stays off until you open the panel again.

• Use Hibernate mode for maximum power savings while

your notebook is not in use.

• Use the notebook touchpad instead of an external

mouse.

• Decrease or mute speaker volume.

• Turn off all scheduled tasks.

• Turn off auto-save features in Microsoft Office and other

applications.

• Copy programs from CDs or DVDs to the hard drive so

you do not use battery power by running optical drives.

• Use the DVD drive only when necessary. This drive uses

a large amount of power.

• Recharge the battery often, take an extra battery, and

fully recharge the batteries before traveling. For more information, see “Recharging the battery” on page 66.

Using alternate power sources

To extend battery life, use alternate power sources whenever possible.

• If traveling internationally, take electrical adapters. Save

the battery for times when you cannot use a power adapter. If you plan on taking your AC power adapter, also take a single-plug surge protector.

• If you will have access to an EmPower™ in-flight power

receptacle, an automobile power outlet, or an automobile cigarette lighter, use an airplane/ automobile power adapter or power inverter. Save the battery for times when you cannot use a power adapter.

• To find AC power outlets in airports, look for them next

to support pillars, in large areas such as boarding gates, and under banks of telephones.

Tip

For more information about using power plans, see “Changing

notebook power settings” on page 72.

Tip

For more information about traveling with your notebook, see

“Traveling with Your Notebook” on page 77.

www.gateway.com

Changing power modes

You can use the following power modes to lengthen the life of your notebook’s battery:

• Sleep - while your notebook is in Sleep mode, it switches

to a low power state where devices, such as the display and drives, turn off.

• Hibernate - (also called save to disk) writes all current

memory (RAM) information to the hard drive, then turns your notebook completely off. The next time you turn on your notebook, it reads the memory information from the hard drive and opens the programs and documents that were open when you activated Hibernate mode.

• Hybrid Sleep - while your notebook is in Hybrid Sleep

mode, it switches to a low power state where devices, such as the display and drives, turn off similar to Sleep mode. The notebook also writes all current memory (RAM) information to the hard drive similar to Hibernate mode. If your notebook experiences a power outage while in Hybrid Sleep mode, the notebook reads the memory information from the hard drive and opens the programs and documents that were open when you activated Hybrid Sleep mode. If the notebook does not experience a power outage while in Hybrid Sleep mode, it restarts using the information in current memory, thus reducing startup time. You must turn on Hybrid Sleep mode to use it. For more information, see “Changing

advanced settings” on page 74.

Using power saving modes

Always save your work before using Sleep mode. In Sleep mode, your notebook reduces or turns off the power to most devices except memory. However, the information in memory is not saved to the hard drive. If power is interrupted, the information is lost.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

When in Hibernate mode, your notebook saves all memory information to the hard drive, then turns the power completely off.

Changing notebook power settings

You can change the function of your notebook’s power button, Sleep system key, and power-saving timers by changing power settings on your notebook.

You can customize power settings from the Windows Mobility Center by selecting power plans and adjusting advanced power settings.

Changing the power plan

Power plans (groups of power settings) let you change power saving options such as when the display or hard drive is automatically turned off. You can select one of the defined power plans or create a custom power plan.

Three power plans are pre-defined for you:

• Balanced - This is the default power plan which balances

performance and battery life.

• Power saver - This power plan sacrifices performance in

order to extend battery life. Use this plan if you will be away from AC power outlets for an extended period of time. Your programs may run slower than you are accustomed to under the other two power plans.

If your notebook is...

...and you want to...

...then

On Enter Sleep or

Hybrid Sleep mode

Press FN+F3.

On Enter Hibernate

mode

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

In Sleep, Hybrid Sleep, or Hibernate mode

Exit Sleep, Hybrid Sleep, or Hibernate mode

Press the power button.

www.gateway.com

• High performance - This power plan sacrifices battery life

in order to gain performance. Use this plan if you need additional computing power for your program. Your battery may not last as long as you are accustomed to under the other two power plans.

To change the power plan:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

2 Click (Change power settings). The Select a power

plan window opens.

3 Select the power plan you want to use.

- OR Click Change plan settings, modify the power plan you

selected, then click Save changes.

Help

For more information about changing the power plan, click Start,

then click Help and Support. Type the keyword power plan in the

Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

Changing advanced settings

Advanced power settings let you assign different power saving modes to the power button and Sleep system key. You can also select which power saving mode is activated when you close the LCD panel.

To change advanced power management settings:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

2 Click (Change power settings). The Select a power

plan window opens.

3 Click a setting on the left side of the screen that you want

to change. The top three settings are not tied to a power plan. The bottom three settings modify the currently selected power plan.

To turn on Hybrid Sleep mode:

1 On the Select a power plan window, click Change plan

settings for the plan you are using. The Change settings for the plan window opens.

2 Click Change advanced power settings. The Power

Options dialog box opens.

Help

For more information about changing the power management

settings, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword

power management in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

www.gateway.com

3 Click the + in front of Sleep, then click the + in front of

Allow hybrid sleep.

4 Change the values to On for On battery and Plugged

in.

Help

For more information about hybrid sleep, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword hybrid in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

CHAPTER6

Traveling with Your Notebook

• Packing your notebook

• Traveling by air

• Dial-up modem

• Radio frequency wireless connections

• Files

• Security

• Power

• Additional tips

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

Packing your notebook

• Remove all discs, express cards, peripheral devices, and

cables. Remember to pack those you will need while traveling.

• Pack your notebook securely into a briefcase or

hand-carried luggage, and keep it separate from toiletries, liquids, and food. Do not pack it in checked luggage.

• Keep your notebook stable during travel. Secure it to

prevent it from sliding around in overhead bins and car trunks.

Traveling by air

• Do not check your notebook as luggage.

• Charge the battery in case airport security asks you to

start your notebook.

• Have your notebook hand-inspected or sent through the

X-ray scanner, but never carry it through the metal detector.

• Turn off you notebook for takeoff and landing.

• Turn off all wireless devices while in the aircraft.

Dial-up modem

• Take a telephone cord to connect the modem to

telephone jacks. If you are traveling internationally, take telephone jack adapters or an acoustic handset coupler.

• Take a telephone line protector.

• Take a telephone line tester to check for unsafe lines,

especially if you are traveling internationally.

• Take remote access information with you so you can

connect to your ISP while outside of your usual calling area. A list of country dialing codes may be especially useful if you are traveling internationally.

www.gateway.com

Radio frequency wireless connections

• Every country has different restrictions on the use of

wireless devices. If your notebook is equipped with a wireless device, check with the local radio approval authorities prior to your trip for any restrictions on the use of a wireless device in the destination country.

• 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 which use wireless to communicate.

Files

• Copy your working files from your desktop computer to

your notebook before you travel.

• If you need to access your desktop computer files from

your notebook while traveling, set up your desktop computer for remote access. Contact your network administrator for more information about remote access.

• Take extra recordable media for transferring files

between computers and backing up files.

Important

If your notebook came equipped with an internal embedded wireless device, see “Legal Information” on page 141 for general wireless regulatory guidelines.

Tip

For more information about turning your wireless device on or off,

see “Turning your wireless radio on or off” on page 47.

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

Security

• Get a locking cable for your notebook so you can attach

a cable lock and leave your notebook in your hotel room while you are away.

• Always keep your notebook with you while waiting in

airports, train stations, or bus terminals. Be ready to claim your notebook as soon as it passes through the X-ray machine in security checkpoints.

• Write down your notebook model number and serial

number (located on the bottom of your notebook) in case of theft or loss, and keep the information in a safe place. Also, tape your business card or an address label to your notebook and accessories.

• Whoever sits next to you or behind you can see your

notebook display. Avoid working with confidential files until you can be sure of privacy.

• Use a startup password to restrict access to your

notebook. The startup password is set using the BIOS utility.

To create a startup password:

1 Restart your notebook. As soon as you see a startup

screen, press F2. The BIOS Setup utility opens.

2 Open the Security menu, highlight Set Supervisor

Password, then press ENTER and follow the

instructions. You must set the supervisor password

in order to set the user (startup) password.

3 Highlight Set User Password, then press ENTER and

follow the instructions. This is the password you need

to enter at startup.

4 Highlight Password on boot, then press ENTER.

Caution

Use a password that you can remember, but that is difficult for someone else to guess. The password feature is very secure, with no easy way to recover a forgotten password. If you forget your password, you must return your notebook to Gateway for service.

Important

You must enter the Supervisor Password each time you use

the BIOS Setup utility.

Important

You must enter the User Password each time you turn on your notebook if it was turned off or put in hibernate mode. You do not need to enter the User Password if your notebook was put in Sleep mode.

www.gateway.com

5 Highlight Enabled, then press ENTER. 6 Open the Exit menu, highlight Exit Saving

Changes, then press E

NTER.

7 When you start your computer, you are prompted to

enter the user password you set in 3.

• Review the information in “Protecting your notebook” in

your online User Guide.

Power

• Take your AC power adapter to recharge the battery. If

you are traveling internationally, take power plug adapters.

• Take a portable surge protector to protect your notebook

from power surges.

• To get the best performance from your notebook, avoid

using the battery whenever possible, monitor the battery charge, and use the most efficient power management settings. For information on conserving battery power, using alternate power sources, and monitoring the battery charge, see “Managing Power”

on page 65.

Additional tips

• If you plan to use several USB peripheral devices, take a

portable USB hub to provide additional USB ports.

• Take a network cable if you need to connect to a

network. Some hotels provide Internet connectivity only through their networks.

• If your notebook has been exposed to cold

temperatures, let it warm to room temperature before turning it on.

• Carry proof of ownership or a merchandise passport

when traveling internationally.

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

• Consult your insurance company and credit card

company to learn about emergency travel assistance if your notebook is lost or damaged.

• Take your recovery discs in case you need to install an

additional driver or software.

Tip

You can create a Drivers and Applications Recovery disc using the

Gateway Recovery Center.

CHAPTER7

Maintaining Your Notebook

• Caring for your notebook

• Cleaning your notebook

• Maintaining the battery

• Cleaning CDs or DVDs

• Recovering your system

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Caring for your notebook

To extend the life of your notebook:

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

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

• When transporting your notebook, we recommend that

you put it in a carrying case.

• Keep your notebook away from magnetic fields.

Magnetic fields can erase data on hard drives.

• Never turn off your notebook when the drive indicator

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

• Avoid subjecting your notebook to extreme temperature

changes. The case (and LCD panel) 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 notebook is safest at temperatures that are comfortable for you.

• Keep all liquids away from your notebook. When spilled

onto notebook 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 notebook.

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

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

• When storing your notebook for an extended period of

time, unplug AC power and remove the battery after discharging them partway.

Cleaning your notebook

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

• A soft, lint-free cloth

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

extension

www.gateway.com

• Cotton swabs

• A DVD drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

Always turn off your notebook and other peripherals before cleaning any components. Also, remove the battery before cleaning any components.

Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean your notebook and other parts of your system. Do not use household abrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damage the finish on components.

Your notebook is cooled by air circulated through the vents on the case, so keep the vents free of dust. With your notebook 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. Do not attempt to clean dust from the inside of your notebook with the exception of the memory bay.

Cleaning the keyboard

You should clean the keyboard occasionally by using an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.

If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off your notebook and turn the notebook 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. A replacement keyboard may not be covered by your warranty.

Cleaning the notebook screen

Use a soft cloth and water to clean the LCD screen. Squirt a little water on the cloth (never directly on the screen), and wipe the screen with the cloth.

Warning

When you shut down your notebook, the power turns off, but some

electrical current still flows through your notebook. To avoid possible injury from electrical shock, unplug the power cord, modem cable, and network cable from the wall outlets and remove the battery.

Tip

You may want to occasionally open the memory bay door and remove

dust and lint using an aerosol can of air.

Caution

A notebook LCD screen is made of specially coated glass and can be

scratched or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based glass cleaners.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Maintaining the battery

The life span of a notebook battery is about 1.5 to 3 years, under normal conditions. As the battery begins to die, you will have to recharge the battery more frequently because it cannot hold a full charge.

Do not expose the battery to high heat or freezing temperatures. Hot batteries discharge very quickly, and cold ones cannot create as much power. Short battery life is more likely to be caused by heat than by charge/discharge patterns. Keep your lithium-ion battery cool. Avoid a hot car, for example.

Charge often, but do not try to fully discharge the battery frequently. This only adds strain. Several partial discharges (regular use), with frequent recharges, are better for lithium-ion than one total discharge. Recharging a partially charged lithium-ion battery does not cause any harm because it has no “memory.”

Batteries with fuel gauges (notebooks) should be calibrated by applying a deliberate full discharge once every 30 charges. Running the battery down in the equipment does this. If ignored, the fuel gauge becomes increasingly less accurate and in some cases will cut off the device prematurely.

Using the right charger is important. By now you probably know that each kind of battery has its own technology, its own rate of charge, and so on. Charging lithium batteries correctly is one way to extend their life and to avoid damage.

Storing batteries

Do not charge up the battery, then store it away. A stored battery should be used every three to four weeks. Let the battery fully discharge, then recharge to 40% if you plan to store it again. If you store a battery for longer than three to four weeks, the battery could fully discharge because the battery circuitry itself consumes power.

If you have a spare lithium-ion battery, use one exclusively and keep the other cool by placing it in the refrigerator. Make sure that it is wrapped protectively and that nothing will be dropped on it. Do not freeze the battery.

Do not use old batteries. Avoid purchasing spare lithium-ion batteries and storing them for later use. Do not buy old stock, even if it is sold at clearance prices. While it makes sense to have 2 or 3 extra batteries, so that you always have a fresh one charged up and ready to go, if you buy batteries and store them for years, they may not work when you decide to use them.

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Consider removing the battery from your notebook when running on fixed power. However, remember that when you have removed the battery from your notebook while using it with an electrical outlet, the automatic battery charger no longer keeps the battery charged.

Cleaning CDs or DVDs

Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle, using a product made especially for the purpose.

Recovering your system

You can solve most notebook problems by following the information in “Troubleshooting” on page 113 or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com

. Problem solving may also involve re-installing some or all of the notebook’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions.

Caution

When the battery is in the notebook and the notebook is running on AC power, the battery constantly charges, even though it has a full charge. This reduces the life of the battery. If the battery is fully charged and you want to run on AC power, remove the battery.

Caution

To prepare your notebook for additional system recovery options, you should create a set of software and driver recovery discs as soon as possible. For instructions, see “Preparing for software and device driver recovery” on page 89.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

• If only one or two items of software or hardware have

stopped working correctly, the problem may be solved by re-installing the software or the hardware drivers. To recover software and drivers that were pre-installed at the factory, see “Recovering pre-installed software and

drivers” on page 88. For instructions on reinstalling

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

• If re-installing 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 “Using Microsoft System Restore” on

page 95.

• If nothing else has solved the problem and you want to

return your system to factory condition, see “Recovering

your system to its factory condition” on page 98.

If you upgrade or exchange your hard drive or if your hard drive is completely erased or corrupted, your only option for system recovery may be to reinstall Windows from the Windows DVD, then recover your pre-installed software and device drivers using recovery discs that you created.

• To re-install Windows using the Windows DVD, see

“Recovering your system using the Windows DVD” on page 99.

• To re-install your pre-installed software and device

drivers using recovery discs, see “Recovering

pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs” on page 93.

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers

You can perform a partial recovery by recovering the software and device drivers that were pre-installed at the factory. If you need to recover software that did not come pre-installed on your system, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.

You can recover pre-installed software and drivers from a set of recovery discs (you must create the discs) or by using Gateway Recovery Center.

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Preparing for software and device driver recovery

You can usually recover your pre-installed software and drivers from your hard drive. However, if you ever re-install Windows from the Windows DVD or install a new hard drive, you need to recover your pre-installed software and drivers using a set of software and driver recovery discs. Because these discs do not come with your notebook, you should create your own set.

You should create a set of discs for recovering your pre-installed software and device drivers, in case you need to use them later for a complete system recovery. (Your notebook must have a recordable disc drive to perform this procedure.)

To create discs for recovering pre-installed software

and drivers:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery

Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The

Gateway Recovery Center opens.

2 Click Applications and drivers external media, then

click Next. The What would you like to do? dialog box opens.

3 Click Create system recovery discs, then click Next.

Caution

Although you may not be expecting to need recovery discs, we recommend that you prepare for any eventuality and create a set of recovery discs while you have the opportunity.

Important

Your notebook may have shipped with a Drivers and Applications Recovery disc. If this is the case, you may want to create an additional set of discs in case the originals are lost or damaged.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

4 Insert a blank, recordable disc into the recordable disc

drive, then click Next. If an AutoPlay dialog box opens, click the x in the upper-right corner to close it.

A dialog box opens that tells you the number of blank discs you need to create a full set of recovery discs.

5 If you have enough blank discs of the specified type, click

I have enough discs, then click Next. If you do not have enough discs, choose a different disc type, or click Cancel.

The disc recording begins. Label the discs as they are completed.

6 If multiple discs are required, insert the additional blank

discs when prompted.

7 When the process is finished, the Congratulations!

window opens.

8 Click Finish. 9 Remove your final disc, then label all of the discs and

store them in a safe place.

Important

Use a permanent marker to label each disc “Software and Driver Recovery,” along with a short description of which notebook the discs are for. If you are recording multiple discs, as you remove each disc from the drive, use the marker to label each disc 1 of x, 2 of x, 3ofx, and so on.

Tip

After a recovery disc is created, your notebook names the disc Recovery13 for disc 1 of a 3-disc set, Recovery23 for disc 2, and so on.

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Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using Gateway Recovery Center

To recover specific drivers and software:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery

Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The

Gateway Recovery Center opens.

Important

If you have recently reinstalled Windows or installed a new hard drive, and your Start menu does not contain Gateway Recovery Center as an option, you must recover your software and drivers using software and driver recovery discs you have created. For instructions, see

“Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs” on page 93.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

2 To recover software that was pre-installed, click

Programs, then click Application recovery.

- OR To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click

Hardware, then click Device driver recovery.

3 Click the software or driver you want to recover, then

click Next.

Gateway M-150S, M-150X, M-150XL, M-151S, M-151X Reference Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual