Gateway MT3100 Quick Reference Guide

NOTEBOOK

REFERENCEGUIDE

®

Contents

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

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

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

Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Keyboard area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 13

Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Sitting at your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . 15

Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Connecting the dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . 19

Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Using the status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

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Contents

Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Adjusting brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Chapter 4: Using Drives and Accessories . . . . . 35

Using the CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Using a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Adding and removing an Express Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Installing a printer or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . 41

Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Viewing the display on a projector or monitor . . . . . . . . . . 42

Ordering accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Chapter 5: Managing Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Replacing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Changing notebook power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Changing the power plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Chapter 6: Traveling with Your Notebook. . . . 57

Packing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

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Traveling by air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Additional tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Chapter 7: Maintaining Your Notebook . . . . . 63

Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

System recovery options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Recovering specific files and software . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Recovering using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . 67

Recovering using the Windows DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Chapter 8: Upgrading Your Notebook. . . . . . . 69

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Adding or replacing memory modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Replacing the hard drive kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Diskette drive (external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Express Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

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Contents

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Networks (wired) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Networks (wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Pointing device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Appendix A: Legal Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

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CHAPTER1

About This Reference

• About this guide

• Accessing the online User Guide

• Gateway contact information

• Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

• For more information

1

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

About this guide

This guide includes information and maintenance instructions
that are specific to your model of Gateway notebook. For all
other notebook information, see the online User Guide.

Accessing the online User Guide

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

• Help and technical support

• Using and customizing Windows and other software

• Controlling audio and video settings

• Using the Internet

• Protecting your files

• Playing and recording media

• Networking

To access the online User Guide:

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

Documentation.

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Gateway contact information

Important

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

information varies by model, features ordered, and location.

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.

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

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

or the Web address

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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

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CHAPTER2

Checking Out Your Notebook

• Front

• Left

• Right

• Back

• Bottom

• Keyboard area

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Front

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

LCD panel release latch

Microphone

Speaker Battery

Headphone

jack

jack

indicator

charge
indicator

SpeakerPower

Component Icon Description

LCD panel release
latch

Speakers Provide audio output when headphones or

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack.

Headphone jack Plug amplified speakers or headphones into this

Power indicator

Battery charge
indicator

Press to open the LCD panel.

amplified speakers are not plugged in.

jack. The built-in speakers are turned off when
speakers or headphones are plugged into this
jack.

■

LED on - Notebook is on.

■

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

■

LED off - Notebook is off.

■

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.

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Ventilation fan Memory card

USB ports

Express Card
slot

reader

Component Icon Description

Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.

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

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

Memory card
reader

Warning: Do not work for long periods 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.

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

For more information, see “Adding and

removing an Express Card” on page 40.

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 38.

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

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Right

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

CD or DVD drive Modem

jack

jack

Monitor portEthernet

Component Icon Description

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

Ethernet jack Plug an Ethernet network cable into this jack.

Modem jack Plug a dial-up modem cable into this jack. For

Monitor port Plug an analog VGA monitor or projector into

information, see “Using the CD or DVD drive” on

page 36. 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 36.

The other end of the cable can be plugged into
a cable modem, DSL modem, or an Ethernet
network jack. For more information, see

“Connecting to a broadband modem or
network” on page 19.

more information, see “Connecting the dial-up

modem” on page 18.

this port. For more information, see “Viewing

the display on a projector or monitor” on
page 42.

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Back

Power connector Kensington lock slot

Component Icon Description

Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

Kensington™
lock slot

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

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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Bottom

Hard drive bay

Memory
bay

Customer care/

system label

Battery lock

Component Icon Description

Battery latch

Battery

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

Customer
Care label

Memory bay Install a memory module into this bay. For more

Hard drive
bay

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

Battery Provides power when the notebook is not plugged

“Changing batteries” on page 49.

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

on page 3.

information, see “Adding or replacing memory

modules” on page 71.

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

page 74.

“Changing batteries” on page 49.

into AC power.

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Keyboard area

Keyboard

Power
button

Touchpad

Status indicators

Component Icon Description

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

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

Status
indicators

Touchpad Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For more

keyboard. For more information, see “Using the

keyboard” on page 25.

configure the power button for Sleep/Resume mode.
For more information on configuring the power button
mode, see “Changing advanced settings” on page 55.

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 23.

information, see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on

page 29.

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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

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CHAPTER3

Setting Up and Getting Started

• Working safely and comfortably

• Connecting the AC adapter

• Connecting the dial-up modem

• Connecting to a broadband modem or

network

• Starting your notebook

• Turning off your notebook

• Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

• Using the status indicators

• Using the keyboard

• Using the EZ Pad touchpad

• Adjusting brightness

• Adjusting the volume

• Turning your wireless radio on or off

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Working safely and comfortably

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

• Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.

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

sight.

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

• Although notebooks are sometimes called “laptops,” do

not use your notebook while it rests on your
unprotected lap. Notebook operating temperatures can
become quite high, increasing the risk of burns to your
legs. Instead, use a laptop desk to protect your legs.

• Do not use the notebook on any soft, conforming

surface, such as your lap, a blanket, carpet, or a sofa.
Soft surfaces can block your notebook’s ventilation
openings, leading to overheating, permanent damage
to your notebook, and fire danger. Instead, place your
notebook on a rigid, hard surface, and make sure that
you keep the ventilation openings on the sides clear.

War ning

Do not use your notebook on a soft surface, such as your lap,
a blanket, carpet, or a sofa. You must keep your notebook’s ventilation
openings clear of obstructions, or your notebook may overheat,
increasing the risk of fire and personal injury.

Reducing eye strain

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

• Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid

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

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

your notebook in a dark room.

• Avoid focusing your eyes on your screen for long

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

• Where feasible, keep your head vertical while looking

at the screen. If you use an external keyboard, raise the
notebook so the top of its screen is no higher than eye
level.

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Setting up your computer desk and chair

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

• Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

• Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands

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

• Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes

your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.

• Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly

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

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

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

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

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

Sitting at your notebook

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

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

• Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your

back straight so your knees, hips, and elbows form right
angles when you work.

• Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.

• Avoid twisting your torso or neck.

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

• Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.

• Take breaks to change your position, stretch your

muscles, and relieve your eyes.

• Find ways to break up the work day, and schedule a

variety of tasks.

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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.

War ning

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 50.

To connect the AC adapter:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

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2 Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power

connector.

3 Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. The battery

charge indicator turns on (see “Front” on page 6 for the
location of the battery charge indicator). If the battery
charge indicator does not turn on, complete the
following steps until it turns on:

a Unplug the adapter from your notebook, then plug

it back in.

b Press FN+F1 to toggle the status lights on and off.

4 When you finish using your notebook for the first time,

turn off your notebook and leave your notebook
connected to AC power until the battery charge
indicator turns blue.

Important

If the battery charge indicator does not turn blue after three
hours, contact Gateway Customer Care at the location shown on the
Customer Care label. For more information, see “Gateway contact

information” on page 3.

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
notebook and peripheral devices by connecting them to a
surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents
them from reaching your notebook.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

War ning

High voltages can enter your notebook through both the power cord and
the modem connection. To protect your notebook and avoid electrical shock,
use a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector
that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that
has an antenna/cable TV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge
protector and the modem.

Connecting the dial-up modem

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

War ning

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

To connect the modem:

1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem

jack on your notebook.

18

2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a

telephone wall jack.

Important

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

www.gateway.com

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.

19

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Starting your notebook

War ning

Do not work for long periods 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.

To start your notebook:

1 Press the latch on the front of your notebook, then lift

the LCD panel.

2 Press the power button located above the keyboard.

Power button

20

Tip

For more information about changing the power button mode,

see “Changing advanced settings” on page 55.

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.

Tip

For more information about connecting peripheral devices, see

“Installing a printer or other peripheral device” on page 41.

Tip

See the documentation that came with each device for its setup

instructions.

www.gateway.com

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

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

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.

Tip

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

on page 52.

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.

-OR-

Press F

N+F3.

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 52.

21

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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.

To turn off your notebook:

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

then click Shut Down. The notebook turns off.

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.

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.

22

www.gateway.com

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 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.

Using the status indicators

Important

Status indicators vary by model and features ordered.

Important

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

the status indicators on.

Status indicators for select models

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.

Wireless network

Caps lock

Num lock

Scroll lock

Hard drive

23

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

A

1

A

Indicator Icon Description

Wireless
network
(optional)

■

LED on - Wireless IEEE 802.11 radio
is turned on.

■

LED off - Wireless IEEE 802.11 radio
is turned off.

■

Caps lock

Num lock

LED on - Caps lock is turned on.

■

LED off - Caps lock is turned off.

■

LED on - Numeric keypad is turned
on.

■

LED off - Numeric keypad is turned
off.

■

Scroll lock

Hard drive

LED on - Scroll lock is turned on.

■

LED off - Scroll lock is turned off.

■

LED blinking - hard drive is being
accessed.

■

LED off - hard drive is not being
accessed.

Status indicators for select models

Wireless network

Caps lock

Num lock

Disc drive

Hard drive

Indicator Icon Description

Wireless
network
(optional)

Caps lock

■

LED on - Wireless IEEE 802.11 radio
is turned on.

■

LED off - Wireless IEEE 802.11 radio
is turned off.

■

LED on - Caps lock is turned on.

■

LED off - Caps lock is turned off.

24

www.gateway.com

1

Indicator Icon Description

Num lock

■

LED on - Numeric keypad is turned
on.

■

LED off - Numeric keypad is turned
off.

■

Disc drive

Hard drive

LED on - Drive is in use.

■

LED off - Drive is not in use.

■

LED blinking - Hard drive is in use.

■

LED off - Hard drive is not in use.

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.

Function keys/

System keys

Numeric

keypad

Navigation
keys

FN

key Windows key

Application key Arrow keys

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.

25

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

1

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

Function keys Press these keys labeled F1 to F12 to perform

System keys Press these colored keys in combination with

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor to the

FN key Press the FN key in combination with a colored

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

Application key Press this key for quick access to shortcut

numeric keypad is turned on. Press FN+ to

turn on the numeric keypad.

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.

the FN key to perform specific actions. For more
information, see “System key combinations” on

page 27.

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.

system key to perform a specific action.

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).

menus and help assistants in Windows.

Arrow keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down,

right, or left.

26

www.gateway.com

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 23.

Turn the optional IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio on or
off. For more information, see “Wireless Networking” in the
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.

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 53.

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 on your
notebook)

■

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

projector or monitor” on page 42.

Play or pause the CD or DVD.

Stop playing the CD or DVD.

Skip back one CD track or DVD chapter.

27

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Press and hold
FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

Skip ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

Increase the brightness of the display.

Decrease the brightness of the display.

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

volume” on page 32.

Increase volume. For more information, see “Adjusting the

volume” on page 32.

Decrease volume. For more information, see “Adjusting the

volume” on page 32.

28

www.gateway.com

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

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

Left button Right button

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.

Scroll
zone

Touchpad

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.

29

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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 or touchpad settings” in the 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 or touchpad settings” in the online User
Guide.

To... Do this...

Move the
pointer on
the screen.

Select an
object on the
screen.

Start a
program or
open a file or
folder.

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.

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

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

30

To... Do this...

www.gateway.com

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

Move an
object on the
screen.

Adjusting brightness

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

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 adjust screen brightness:

• Use the increase brightness and decrease brightness

keys on the keyboard. For more information, see

“System key combinations” on page 27.

-OR-

Click (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 the Windows Mobility Center, see

“Customizing Windows” in the online user guide.

31

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Adjusting the volume

Tip

For instructions on how to adjust the volume in Windows, see “Adjusting
the Volume” in the online User Guide.

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.

-OR-

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

combinations” on page 27.

-OR-

Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility
Center window opens. Slide the Volume control to the

desired volume level.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

“Customizing Windows” in the online user guide.

, then click

32

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.

www.gateway.com

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.

Tip

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

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

33

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Turning your wireless radio on or off

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

War ning

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.

War ning

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.

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio

Your notebook may have an IEEE 802.11 radio for
communicating with other computers on a wireless Ethernet
network.

To turn the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio on or off:

• Press FN + F2. The wireless status indicator turns on or

off. For the location of the wireless status indicator, see

“Using the status indicators” on page 23.

-OR-

Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility
Center window opens. Click Turn wireless on or Turn

wireless off.

, then click

34

Tip

For more information about using your notebook on a wireless network,
see “Wireless Networking” in the online User Guide

CHAPTER4

Using Drives and Accessories

• Using the CD or 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 or

monitor

• Ordering accessories

35

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Using the CD or 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...

CD drive

DVD drive

Combination DVD/CD-RW
drive

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

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

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.

36

www.gateway.com

If your drive has this

This is your drive type... Use your drive for...

logo...

Multi-format double layer
DVD

ROM/R/RW

Using a CD or 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.

Eject button

Manual eject hole

Important

DVD discs and drives contain regional codes that help control DVD title
exports and help reduce illegal disc distribution. To be able to play a 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.

37

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Important

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

Tip

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

on page 66.

To insert a CD or DVD:

1 Press the eject button on the CD or 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.

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™, and RS-MultiMediaCard™.

Important

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

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.

38

www.gateway.com

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

Important

Do not use the remove hardware icon in the taskbar to remove
the memo ry card. If you use t he remove hardware ico n , yo ur n ot e b o ok may
not recogn ize you r mem ory card rea der un til you restar t you r noteb ook .

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.

39

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Adding and removing an Express Card

Your notebook has a 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.

40

To remove an Express Card:

1 Turn off your convertible notebook, then go to Step 5.

-OR-

Double-click the remove hardware icon in the
taskba r. The Safel y Rem ove H ard ware dialog b ox opens.

Important

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

the show hidden icons button.

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.

www.gateway.com

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

Your notebook has a three USB ports for connecting peripheral
devices such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras to your
notebook.

Important

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

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.

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 pre ss E

Connecting a USB device

NTER.

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

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.

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.

Tip

For the location of the USB ports on your notebook, see “Left”

on page 7.

41

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Viewing the display on a projector or monitor

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

To use a projector or external monitor:

1 Turn off your notebook.
2 Plug the projector or monitor cable into the VGA

port on your notebook.

Tip

For the location of the VGA port on your notebook, see “Right”

on page 8.

3 Turn on your notebook.
4 Plug the projector’s or monitor’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.

5 Select the options for the projector or external monitor,

then click OK.

6 (Optional) Adjust the display properties on the projector

or external monitor as follows:

a Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, then

click Windows Mobility Center. The Windows

Mobility Center window opens.

42

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

“Customizing Windows” in the online user guide.

www.gateway.com

b Click (Change display settings). The Display

Settings dialog box opens.

c Click monitor 2.

d Adjust properties such as Resolution or Colors if

necessary.

e To use the external monitor or projector 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.

f To use the external monitor or projector 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.

g Click OK.

7 (Optional) Configure your notebook for giving

presentations as follows:

a Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, then

click Windows Mobility Center. The Windows
Mobility Center window opens.

43

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center,

see “Customizing Windows” in the online User Guide.

b Click (Change presentation settings). The

Presentation Settings dialog box opens.

44

c Adj us t p ro pe rt ie s s uc h a s Turn off screen saver and

Set the volume to if necessary.

d Click OK.

e 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.

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

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

Important

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

www.gateway.com

Ordering accessories

To order accessories, visit the Accessory Store at

www.gateway.com

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.

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 49 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 74 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 71 for more information.

. Accessories may not be available in all

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.

45

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

USB flash drive

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

46

CHAPTER5

Managing Power

• Monitoring the battery charge

• Recharging the battery

• Recalibrating the battery

• Extending battery life

• Changing notebook power settings

47

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:

• Hover 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.

Tip

For more information about the battery charge status indicator,
see “Using the status indicators” on page 23.

Tip

For more information about recalibrating the battery, see

“Recalibrating the battery” on page 50.

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.

48

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Changing batteries

Replacing the battery

War ning

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 battery 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 the used battery 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 is not plugged into an AC
outlet, you must turn the notebook off while changing the battery.

To replace the battery:

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

go to Step 2.

-OR-

If your notebook is on and is not plugged into an AC
outlet, save your work and turn off the notebook.

2 Close the LCD panel.
3 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up.
4 Slide the battery lock to the unlocked position.

5 Slide the battery release latch.

49

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

6 Slide the battery out of the notebook.

7 Slide a battery into the notebook until it snaps into

place.

8 Slide the battery lock to the locked position.
9 Turn your notebook over.

10 Open the LCD panel.

Recalibrating the battery

Important

Do not interrupt the battery recalibration process. If recalibration is

interrupted, you must start the process over again.

50

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:

1 Connect your notebook to AC power and let the battery

charge completely.

2 Disconnect the AC power and restart your notebook.
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.

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 3.

www.gateway.com

Extending battery life

Conserving battery power

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

• Dim the display as low as is comfortable.

• 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.

• Select the Power saver power plan to get maximum

power savings.

Tip

For more information about using power plans, see “Changing

notebook power settings” on page 53.

• 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 CD or 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 48.

Tip

For more information about traveling with your notebook, see

“Traveling with Your Notebook” on page 57.

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CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

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.

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 55.

52

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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.

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

If your notebook
is...

On Enter Sleep or

On Enter Hibernate

In Sleep, Hybrid
Sleep, or Hibernate
mode

...and you want
to...

Hybrid Sleep
mode

mode

Exit Sleep,
Hybrid Sleep, or
Hibernate mode

...then

Press FN+F3.

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

Press the power
button.

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.

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CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

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.

• 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.

54

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 informatio n 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.

www.gateway.com

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 in the left-hand column 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.

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

To turn on Hybrid Sleep mode:

NTER.

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.

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CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

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.

56

CHAPTER6

Traveling with Your Notebook

• Packing your notebook

• Traveling by air

• Dial-up modem

• Radio frequency wireless connections

• Files

• Security

• Power

• Additional tips

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CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

Packing your notebook

• Remove all 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.

58

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Radio frequency wireless connections

Important

If your notebook came equipped with an internal embedded wireless
device, see “Legal Information” on page 105 for general wireless regulatory
guidelines.

• 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 communication devices are
examples of devices which use wireless to
communicate.

Tip

For more information about turning your wireless device on or

off, see “Turning your wireless radio on or off” on page 34.

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.

59

Security

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

• Always keep your notebook with you while waiting in

• Write down your notebook model number and serial

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

• Use a startup password to restrict access to your

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

60

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 E

instructions. You must set the supervisor password
in order to set the user (startup) password.

Important

You must enter the Supervisor Password each time you use the
BIOS Setup utility.

Important

You must set a Supervisor Password to use TPM (Trusted Platform
Module) security. For more information about TPM, see the online User

Guide.

NTER and follow the

3 Highlight Set User Password, then press ENTER and

follow the instructions. This is the password you
need to enter at startup.

Power

www.gateway.com

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.

4 Highlight Password on boot, then press ENTER.
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 Step 3.

• Review the information in “Protecting your notebook”

in the online User Guide.

• 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 47.

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, allow it to warm to room temperature
before turning it on.

• Carry proof of ownership or a merchandise passport

when traveling internationally.

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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.

62

CHAPTER7

Maintaining Your Notebook

• Caring for your notebook

• Cleaning your notebook

• Cleaning CDs or DVDs

• System recovery options

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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 it partway.

64

www.gateway.com

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

• Cotton swabs

• A DVD drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

War ning

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.

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.

Tip

You may want to occasionally open the memory bay door and remove
dust and lint using an aerosol can of air.

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.

65

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

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

Caution

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

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

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.

Cleaning CDs or DVDs

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

System recovery options

Most notebook problems can be solved by following the
information in “Troubleshooting” on page 77 or 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.

• To recover specific files and software, see “Recovering

specific files and software” on page 67.

• To completely restore your system:

66

www.gateway.com

• If you can still run Windows, see “Recovering using

Microsoft System Restore” on page 67.

• If you cannot run Windows, see “Recovering using

the Windows DVD” on page 68

Recovering specific files and software

You can perform a partial recovery by recovering specific files,
such as device drivers and most pre-installed software. If you
need to recover software that did not come pre-installed on
your system, you need to follow that software’s installation
instructions.

To recover specific drivers and software:

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

Recovery. The Gateway Recovery Center opens.

2 Click on the appropriate recovery option, then follow

the on-screen instructions.

Recovering using Microsoft System Restore

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

To restore using Microsoft System Restore:

1 Click (Start), Control Panel, System and

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

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CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

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

using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a

restore point dialog box opens.

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

Finish. A message asks if you want to continue.

4 Click Yes. Your system is restored using the restore

point you specified.

Recovering using the Windows DVD

To completely re-install Windows

1 Insert the Windows DVD into your notebook’s DVD

drive, then restart your notebook.

2 When the prompt “Press any key to boot from CD

or DVD” appears, press any key on your keyboard. A list
of valid boot devices appears.

3 Press the arrow keys to select the drive containing the

Windows DVD, then press E
on-screen instructions.

NTER and follow the

68

CHAPTER8

Upgrading Your Notebook

• Preventing static electricity discharge

• Adding or replacing memory modules

• Replacing the hard drive kit

69

CHAPTER 8: Upgrading Your Notebook

Preventing static electricity discharge

War ning

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

War ning

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

Important

Before installing or replacing components, you should read and
understand the information in this section.

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

Before installing or replacing components, follow these
guidelines:

• Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors,

plastic, and packing foam.

• Remove components from their antistatic bags only

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

• Always hold components by their edges. Avoid touching

the edge connectors. Never slide components over any
surface.

• Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most

electronics stores) and attach it to a bare metal part of
your workbench or other grounded connection.

• Touch a bare metal surface on your workbench or other

grounded object.

70

www.gateway.com

Adding or replacing memory modules

Important

Use only memory modules designed for your Gateway notebook.

Tools

You need a small Phillips screwdriver to replace memory modules.

Your notebook uses memory modules called SO-DIMMs (Small
Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules). The modules are
available in various capacities and any module can be placed
in any slot.

Memory
bay

To add or replace memory modules:

1 Follow the guidelines under “Preventing static

electricity discharge” on page 70.

2 Turn off your notebook.
3 Disconnect the AC adapter, modem cable, and network

cable.

4 Disconnect all peripheral devices connected to the

notebook and remove any Express cards.

5 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up,

then remove the battery. For more information, see

“Changing batteries” on page 49.

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CHAPTER 8: Upgrading Your Notebook

6 Loosen the memory bay cover screw (this screw cannot

be removed).

Screw

7 Lift the memory bay cover, then remove it. Be careful

not to break off the tabs located on the end of the cover
opposite of the screw.

72

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8 If you are removing a module, gently press outward on

the clip at each end of the memory module until the
module tilts upward.

Clip

Clip

9 Pull the memory module out of the slot.

10 Hold the new or replacement module at a 30-degree

angle and press it into the empty memory slot. This
module is keyed so it can only be inserted in one
direction. If the module does not fit, make sure that the
notch in the module lines up with the tab in the memory
bay.

11 Replace the memory bay cover, then tighten the cover

screw.

12 Insert the battery, then turn your notebook over.
13 Connect the power adapter, modem cable, and network

cable.

14 Reconnect all peripheral devices and replace any

Express cards.

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CHAPTER 8: Upgrading Your Notebook

Replacing the hard drive kit

Tools

You need a small Phillips screwdriver to replace the hard drive kit.

If you would like more hard drive capacity, you can replace
your original drive with a higher-capacity drive.

74

Hard drive bay

To replace the hard drive kit:

1 Create a Drivers and Applications Recovery disc using

the Gateway Recovery Center. For more information,
see “Recovering specific files and software” on page 67.

2 Back up any data you want to transfer to the new hard

drive. For more information, see “Backing up files” in the
online User Guide.

3 Follow the guidelines under “Preventing static

electricity discharge” on page 70.

4 Turn off your notebook.
5 Disconnect the AC adapter, modem cable, and network

cable.

6 Disconnect all peripheral devices connected to the

notebook and remove any Express cards.

7 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up,

then remove the battery. For more information, see

“Changing batteries” on page 49.

www.gateway.com

8 Remove the two hard drive screws, then slide the old

hard drive out of the notebook.

ScrewScrew

9 If the replacement drive already has the hard drive

bracket attached, go to Step 14.

-OR-

If you need to transfer the hard drive bracket from the
old hard drive to the new hard drive, go to Step 10.

10 Remove the four screws that secure the hard drive to

the hard drive bracket.

Screw

Screw

Screw

Screw

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CHAPTER 8: Upgrading Your Notebook

11 Remove the bracket from the old drive.

12 Place the new drive, label side up, onto the bracket so

the screw holes line up.

13 Replace the screws that secure the bracket to the drive.
14 Slide the new hard drive kit into your notebook, then

replace the screws that secure the hard drive kit to the
notebook.

15 Insert the battery, then turn your notebook over.
16 Connect the power adapter, modem cable, and network

cable

17 Turn on your notebook, open the DVD drive, insert the

Windows DVD, close the DVD drive, then restart your
notebook.

18 When the prompt “Press any key to boot from CD

or DVD” appears, press any key on your keyboard and
follow the on-screen instructions. As part of the process
you may be prompted to insert your Drivers and
Applications Recovery disc.

19 Reconnect all peripheral devices and replace any

Express Cards.

76

CHAPTER9

Troubleshooting

• Safety guidelines

• First steps

• Troubleshooting

• Telephone support

77

CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

Safety guidelines

War ning

Do not try to troubleshoot your problem if power cords or plugs are
damaged, if your notebook was dropped, or if the case was damaged. Instead,
unplug your notebook and contact a qualified computer technician.

Tip

For more information about preventing damage from static electricity,
see “Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 70.

While troubleshooting your notebook, follow these safety
guidelines:

• Never remove the memory bay or hard drive bay cover

while your notebook is turned on, while the battery is
installed, and while the modem cable, network cable,
and AC power adapter are connected to your notebook.

• Make sure that you are correctly grounded before

accessing internal components.

• After you complete any maintenance tasks where you

remove the memory bay or hard drive bay cover, make
sure that you replace the cover, reinstall any screws,
then replace the battery before you start your
notebook.

Help

For more informat ion abou t troubl eshoot ing, click Start, then click
Help and Support. Type the keyword troubleshooting in the Search Help

box, then press E

First steps

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

• Make sure that the AC power adapter is connected to

your notebook and an AC outlet and that the AC outlet
is supplying power.

• Make sure that the power cord is firmly connected to

the AC power adapter.

• If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure

that it is turned on.

78

NTER.

www.gateway.com

• Try turning the notebook on with the notebook plugged

in and the battery removed, then try turning the
notebook on with the notebook unplugged and the
battery installed.

• If a peripheral device (such as a keyboard or mouse)

does not work, make sure that all connections are
secure.

• Make sure that your hard drive is not full.

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

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

• If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the

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

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

printed documentation or the online help.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order.

Audio

Battery

CD drives

Audio troubleshooting is covered under “Sound” on page 102.

Battery troubleshooting is covered under “Power” on page 99.

CD drive troubleshooting is covered under “DVD drives” on

page 82.

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CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

Diskette drive (external)

The diskette drive is not recognized

• Shut down and restart your notebook.

You see an “Access Denied” or “Write protect” error
message

• Move the write-protection tab in the upper-right corner

of the diskette down (unprotected).

• The diskette may be full. Delete unnecessary files on the

diskette and try again.

• Not all diskettes are IBM-compatible. Make sure that the

diskette you are using is IBM-compatible.

• Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are

flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.

You see a “Disk is full” error message

• Delete unnecessary files on the diskette.

• Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are

flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.

• Run Error checking on the diskette. If errors are

detected and corrected, try using the diskette again. For
instructions on running Error checking, see “Checking
the hard drive for errors” in the online User Guide.

Display

80

You see a “Non-system disk,” “NTLDR is missing,” or “Disk
error” error message

• Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press

E

NTER.

• Make sure that the diskette you are using is

IBM-compatible.

The diskette drive status indicator is lit continuously

• Remove the diskette from the drive. If the indicator

stays on, try restarting your notebook.

The screen is too dark

• Adjust the brightness using the system keys or Windows

Mobility Center.

Tip

For more information about adjusting the brightness, see

“System key combinations” on page 27.

www.gateway.com

The screen resolution is not correct

• Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings

dialog box. For instructions on changing the screen
resolution, see “Adjusting the screen resolution” in the
online User Guide.

The text on the display is dim or difficult to read

• Adjust the brightness using the system keys or Windows

Mobility Center.

Tip

For more information about adjusting the brightness, see

“System key combinations” on page 27.

• Change the display settings. For instructions on

changing the display settings, see “Adjusting the screen
and desktop settings” in the online User Guide.

• Move your notebook away from sources of electrical

interference, such as televisions, unshielded speakers,
microwaves, fluorescent lights, and metal beams or
shelves.

The display has pixels that are always dark or too bright

This condition is normal and inherent in the TFT technology
used in active-matrix LCD screens. Gateway’s inspection
standards keep these to a minimum. If you feel these pixels
are unacceptably numerous or dense on your display, contact
Gateway Customer Care to identify whether a repair or
replacement is justified based on the number of pixels
affected.

The display is blank

• Adjust the brightness using the system keys or Windows

Mobility Center.

Tip

For more information about adjusting the brightness, see

“System key combinations” on page 27.

• Make sure the notebook is not in Sleep or Hibernate

mode. Press the power button.

• The notebook may be sending its display to an external

monitor or projector. Press F
toggle through the attached display, an external
monitor or projector, or both.

N + F4 several times to

81

DVD drives

Your notebook does not recognize a disc

An audio CD does not produce sound

CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

• The disc may not be seated correctly in the tray. When

you place a disc on the tray, make sure that you press
the disc firmly onto the spindle so the retainers hold the
disc in place.

• Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.

• If you are trying to play a DVD, make sure that you have

a DVD drive. For more information, see “Identifying

drive types” on page 36.

• Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed and

cannot be read by the drive.

• Some music CDs have copy protection software. You

may not be able to play these CDs on your notebook.

• Your notebook may be experiencing some temporary

memory problems. Shut down and restart your
notebook.

• Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning CDs

or DVDs” on page 66.

• Make sure that the CD label is facing up, then try again.

• Some music CDs have copy protection software. You

may not be able to play these CDs on your notebook.

• Make sure that the volume control on your notebook

is turned up.

82

Tip

For more information about using your volume control, see

“Adjusting the volume” on page 32.

• Make sure that the Windows volume control is turned

up. For instructions on how to adjust the volume control
in Windows, see “Adjusting the volume” in the online
User Guide.

• Make sure that Mute controls are turned off.

• Make sure that headphones are not plugged into the

headphone jack on the notebook.

• If you are using powered speakers, make sure that they

are plugged in and turned on.

• Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning CDs

or DVDs” on page 66.

www.gateway.com

• Your notebook may be experiencing some temporary

memory problems. Shut down and restart your
notebook.

• Reinstall the audio device drivers. For more information,

see “Recovering specific files and software” on page 67.

A DVD movie will not play

• Make sure that the label or side you want to play is

facing up, then try again.

• Make sure that you have a DVD drive. For more

information, see “Identifying drive types” on page 36.

• Shut down and restart your notebook.

• Clean the DVD. For more information, see “Cleaning CDs

or DVDs” on page 66.

• Make sure that the disc’s regional code and your DVD

drive’s regional code match.

• Make sure that a DVD player program has been installed

on your notebook.

Tip

For instructions on playing a DVD, see “Playing music and

movies” in the online User Guide.

You cannot eject a CD or DVD

Your notebook must be turned on to remove CDs and DVDs.
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.

Tip

For the location of the manual eject hole, see “Using a CD or DVD” on

page 37.

Ethernet

Ethernet troubleshooting is covered under “Networks (wired)”

on page 95.

Express Cards

You installed an Express Card and now your notebook is
having problems

• Make sure that you have correctly installed required

software for the Express Card. For more information,
see your Express Card’s documentation.

83

File management

A file was accidentally deleted

• Recover the file from the Recycle Bin by following the

instructions in “Deleting files and folders” in the online
User Guide.

Caution

If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key or if the

Recycle Bin has been emptied, the file cannot be restored.

Help

For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start,
then click Help and Support. Type the keyword System Restore in
the Search Help box, then press E

Hard drive

You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message

• Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk

Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files,
see “Deleting unnecessary files” in the online User
Guide.

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

icon, then clicking Empty Recycle Bin.

Caution

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

CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

NTER.

84

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

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

Help

For mor e informa tion ab out file mana gement , click Start, then
click Help and Support. Type the keyword file management in the
Search Help box, then pre ss E

You see a “Data error” message

This may be the result of a defective area on the hard drive.
To fix hard drive problems, run the Error checking program.
For instructions on fixing hard drive problems, see “Checking
the hard drive for errors” in the online User Guide.

NTER.

Internet

www.gateway.com

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

• If a diskette is in an external diskette drive, eject it and

restart your notebook.

• Make sure that the hard drive is installed correctly.

Remove it, firmly reinsert it, then restart your notebook.

Tip

For more information about removing your hard drive, see

“Replacing the hard drive kit” on page 74.

• If your notebook has been subjected to static electricity

or physical shock, you may need to reinstall the
operating system.

You cannot connect to the Internet

• If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the

modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not
the Ethernet network jack.

-OR-

If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that
the modem cable is plugged into the Ethernet network
jack and not the modem jack.

Tip

For the location of your modem and network jack, see “Right”

on page 8.

• Make sure that you do not have a problem with your

modem. For more information, see “Modem (dial-up)”

on page 91.

• Make sure that your account with your Internet service

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

Help

For more informat ion abou t troubl eshoot ing Inte rnet
connections, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the
keyword troubleshooting connections in the Search Help box,
then press E

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CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

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

This problem can occur when you have typed a URL (Web
address) incorrectly, you have lost your Internet connection,
or your ISP is having technical difficulties.

Double-check the URL or try a different URL. If the error
message still appears, disconnect from the ISP connection and
close your browser, then reconnect and open the browser. If
you still get the error, your ISP may be having technical
difficulties.

Connecting to a Web site takes too long

Many factors can affect Internet performance:

• The condition of the telephone lines in your residence

or at your local telephone service

• The condition of the Internet computers to which you

connect and the number of users accessing those
computers

• The complexity of graphics and multimedia on Web

pages

• Having multiple Web browsers open, performing

multiple downloads, and having multiple programs
open on your notebook

Keyboard

86

People are sending you e-mail messages, but you have not
received any mail

• Click the receive button in your e-mail program.

• Make sure that your account with your Internet service

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

A keyboard character keeps repeating or you see a
“Keyboard stuck” or “Key failure” error message

• Make sure that nothing is resting on the keyboard.

• Make sure that a key is not stuck. Press each key to

loosen a key that might be stuck, then restart your
notebook.

You are pressing a letter key and a number appears on the
screen

• The numeric keypad is turned on.

An external keyboard does not work

• Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in

• Remove all extension cables and switchboxes.

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

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

• If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your

Media Center

To view Media Center troubleshooting information that is not
covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site
at www.gateway.com.

www.gateway.com

Tip

For more information about using your keyboard, see “Using the

keyboard” on page 25.

correctly.

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

the keyboard port works.

notebook and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard
and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard
dry before using it again. If the keyboard does not work
after it dries, you may need to replace it.

The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV

Many factors, such as the display type, quality of the video
source, type of connection used, quality of video cables,
display device screen resolution, size of TV, age of the TV, or
the type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan), can affect the
video quality significantly:

• Display type—The Media Center is best viewed on

display devices that were offered with the Media Center
computer when you purchased it from Gateway. Other
types of display devices, including retail TVs, may
provide lower quality video. If you did not order a
display device when you purchased your Media Center
computer, a progressive scan display device with a VGA
input is the best choice.

• Quality of video source—The quality of the video

signal coming into the Media Center computer has an
affect on the video quality. The video displayed from the
Media Center is only as good as the source video signal.
Cable, digital cable, and satellite usually provide better
quality than an antenna.

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CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

• Type of connection used—You can connect the Media

Center computer video output to a TV. However, the
connection type has an affect on the video quality. The
Media Center has a VGA video output. If your TV
includes a VGA port, connect the VGA cable from the
Media Center computer’s VGA (monitor) port to the TV’s
VGA In port for the best quality. Many TVs do not have
a VGA port.

• Quality of video cables—Poor quality or the incorrect

type of video cables can cause problems and affect the
video quality. Gateway recommends using high-quality
video cables that can be purchased from the Gateway
Accessory Store.

Important

Cable connections must be made correctly for optimal video

quality. A poor cable connection can lower video quality.

• Screen resolution—By default, if your display device

was purchased with the Media Center computer, the
computer uses a screen resolution of 1024 × 768 for
computer monitors and 800 × 600 for the Gateway
42-inch Plasma TV. Many TVs cannot display this high
of a resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the
picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may
need to lower the Media Center screen resolution to
800 × 600 or 640 × 480.

Tip

For more information about changing the screen resolution, see

“Adjusting the screen resolution” in the online User Guide.

88

Help

For more information about adjusting display settings, click

Start, then click Help and Support. Type the key word changing
display settings in the Search Help box, then click the arrow.

• Size of display device—Small computer monitors for

standard computer applications are generally not
optimized for motion video playback. Although they
offer excellent resolutions and refresh rates, they are
designed to make static white backgrounds with black
text look readable. Some small display devices do not
make colorful motion video look its best. Generally,
video will look better on a larger display device.

• Age of the TV—Newer TVs usually have more

advanced features, produce a better quality picture,
and support higher screen resolutions. The Media
Center video display will likely be better on a newer
model TV.

www.gateway.com

• Type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan)

Many TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced video displays
a video frame with two passes of alternating scan lines.
The TV screen first displays the video image odd lines
one at a time, sequentially from top to bottom, then it
fills in the other half of the video image with the even
lines. Because most TVs use this interlaced method to
display the picture on the screen, a standard interlaced
analog TV will most likely flicker when displaying thin
lines and small text. An interlaced video display device
will produce a lower quality display, especially when
viewing and using the Media Center computer
functions.

Progressive scan video displays a video frame with one
pass of sequential scan lines. A progressive scan TV
displays the entire picture, drawn sequentially from top
to bottom, without the odd/even interlacing. This
results in a fuller, sharper picture and better display
quality for viewing and using the Media Center
computer functions. The progressive scan picture is also
brighter and easier on your eyes.

You need to configure your Media Center to output to a TV

• Your Media Center computer detects if you are using a

VGA display device and automatically changes the
display settings for the type of display device you are
using. For more information, review the FAQ topic at

www.gateway.com

.

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

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

saturation. For more information review the FAQ topic
at www.gateway.com

You want to know whether you can burn videos that were
recorded with your Media Center computer to a DVD

.

• Yes, you can. The Media Center saves recorded videos

in the DVR-MS format. You can burn a DVR-MS file to a
DVD with DVD recording (burning) software, such as
Power2Go, and with the Media Center itself.

89

Memory

CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

You want to know whether you can play recorded videos
on other computers

• Yes, you can. A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be

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

You want to know whether you can play recorded videos
on your home DVD player

• Yes, you can. DVDs recorded with the Media Center can

be played on a home DVD player.

You see a “Memory error” message

• Make sure that the memory module is inserted correctly

in the memory bay slot.

Tip

For more information about installing memory, see “Adding or

replacing memory modules” on page 71.

• Use a third-party diagnostic program to help determine

if a memory module is failing.

Help

For more info rmati on abou t tro ubles hoo ting mem or y er rors,
click Start, then click Help and Support. T ype the keyword memory
error in the Search Help box, then press E

You see a “Not enough memory” error message

• Close all programs, then restart your notebook.

Memory card reader

Drive letter for the memory card slot does not appear in
the My Computer window

• Reboot your notebook.

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NTER.

www.gateway.com

Modem (cable or DSL)

The modem does not connect

• Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the

Ethernet network jack and not the modem jack.

Tip

For the location of your network jack, see “Right” on page 8.

• See the documentation that came with your modem for

additional troubleshooting information.

Modem (dial-up)

Your modem does not dial or does not connect

• Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the

modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack.

Tip

For the location of your modem jack, see “Right” on page 8.

• Make sure that your notebook is connected to the

telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone.

• Make sure that the modem cable is less than 6 feet

(1.8 meters) long.

• Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your

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

• If you have additional telephone services such as call

waiting, call messaging, or voice mail, make sure that
all messages are cleared and call waiting is disabled
before using the modem. Contact your telephone
service to get the correct code to temporarily disable
the service. Also make sure that the modem dialing
properties are set appropriately.

Help

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

To check the dialing properties:

NTER.

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

Control Panel window opens.

2 Click Hardware and Sound.
3 Click the Phone and Modem Options. The Phone

and Modem Options dialog box opens.

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CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

4 Click the Dialing Rules tab.
5 Click the location from which you are dialing, then

click Edit. The Edit Location dialog box opens.

6 Make sure that all settings are correct.

• Disconnect any answering machine, fax machine, or

printer that is on the same line as the modem. Do not
connect these devices to the same telephone line as the
modem.

• Make sure that you are not using a digital, rollover, or

PBX line. These lines do not work with your modem.

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

sounds). Line noise is a common problem that can cause
the modem to connect at a slower rate, abort
downloads, or even disconnect. The faster the modem,
the less line noise it can tolerate and still work correctly.

Listen to the line using your telephone. Dial a single
number (such as 1). When the dial tone stops, listen for
line noise. Wiggle the modem cable to see if that makes
a difference. Make sure that the connectors are free
from corrosion and all screws in the wall or telephone
wall jack are secure.

92

You can also call your telephone service and have the
telephone line checked for noise or low line levels.

• Try another telephone line (either a different telephone

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

• Try connecting with the modem at a lower connection

speed. If reducing the connect speed lets you connect,
call your telephone service. The telephone line may be
too noisy.

You cannot connect to the Internet

• The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact

your ISP for technical support.

• See if the modem works with a different

communications program. The problem may be with
just one program.

• Review the troubleshooting information under

“Internet” on page 85.

www.gateway.com

Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K

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

If your notebook has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you
can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K. If your notebook
has a v.92 modem, the speed at which you can upload data
is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads.

Your fax communications program only sends and receives
faxes at 14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem

Current fax technology only supports a maximum send and
receive rate of 14,400 bps.

The modem is not recognized by your notebook

• Make sure that the line connected to the modem is

working and plugged into the appropriate port on your
notebook.

Tip

For the location of your modem jack, see “Right” on page 8.

• If the modem shares the telephone line with another

device, make sure that the telephone line is not in use
(for example, someone is on the telephone, or another
modem is in use).

• Use a different modem cable. Some telephone cables do

not meet required cable standards and may cause
problems with the modem connection.

• Shut down and restart your notebook.

• Run Windows modem diagnostics.

To run modem diagnostics:

1 Close all open programs.
2 Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The

Control Panel window opens.

3 Click Hardware and Sound.
4 Click Phone and Modem Options. The Phone and

Modem Options dialog box opens.

5 Click the Modems tab.
6 Click your modem, then click Properties. The

Modem Properties dialog box opens.

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CHAPTER 9: Troubleshooting

7 Click the Diagnostic tab, then click Query Modem.

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

Help

For more information about modem troubleshooting,

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

modem troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press

E

NTER.

The modem is noisy when it dials and connects

When your modem tries to connect to another modem, it
begins handshaking. Handshaking is a digital “getting
acquainted” conversation between the two modems that
establishes connection speeds and communication protocols.
You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems
first connect. If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can
turn down the modem volume.

To turn down the modem volume:

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

Control Panel window opens.

2 Click Hardware and Sound.
3 Click Phone and Modem Options. The Phone and

Modem Options dialog box opens.

4 Click the Modems tab.
5 Click the modem you want to adjust, then click

Properties. The Modem Properties dialog box
opens.

6 Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker

volume control.

7 Click OK twice to close the Phone and Modem

Options dialog box.

94