Gateway MT6700, MT6820 Quick Reference Guide

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NOTEBOOK

REFERENCEGUIDE

ORDINATEUR PORTABLE

GUIDE DU MATÉRIEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

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

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

Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

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

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

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

LCD panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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

Contents

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using the optional multimedia panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Using the optional webcam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Adjusting the brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Bluetooth radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Chapter 4: Using Drives and Accessories . . . . 41

Using the CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Using a CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Adding and removing a PC Card or Express Card . . . . . . . . . 45

Installing a printer or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Connecting an IEEE 1394 device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Viewing the display on a projector or monitor . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Adjusting the display properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation . . . . 53

Viewing the display on a television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Adjusting the television display settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Chapter 5: Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Changing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

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Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Maximizing battery performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Changing notebook power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Changing the power plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Chapter 6: Traveling with Your Notebook . . . 67

Packing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Traveling by air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Additional tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Chapter 7: Maintaining Your Notebook . . . . . 73

Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Maintaining the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Storing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . .78

Using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Recovering your system to its factory condition . . . . . . .87

Recovering your system using the Windows DVD . . . . . .88

Chapter 8: Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . . 91

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92

Adding or replacing memory modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Replacing the hard drive kit 98

iii

Contents

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Diskette drive (external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Express Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Networks (wired) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Networks (wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Appendix A: Legal Information . . . . . . . . . . 129

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

CHAPTER1

About This Reference

• About this guide

• Accessing your online User Guide

• Gateway contact information

• Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

• For more information

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

About this guide

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

Accessing your online User Guide

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

• Help and technical support

• Using and customizing Windows and other software

• Using the Internet

• Protecting your files

• Playing and recording media

• Networking

To access your online User Guide:

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

Documentation.

Gateway contact information

Important

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

information varies by model, features ordered, and location.

www.gateway.com

Gateway model and serial number

The label on the bottom of your notebook contains information that identifies your notebook model and its features. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.

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

or the Web address shown

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

CHAPTER2

Checking Out Your Notebook

• Front

• Left

• Right

• Back

• Bottom

• Keyboard area

• LCD panel

Front

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

LCD panel release latch

Speaker

Battery charge indicator

Power indicator

Headphone jack

Microphone jack

Speaker

Component Icon Description

LCD panel release latch

Speakers Provide audio output when headphones or

Battery charge indicator

Power indicator

Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. The optional

Headphone jack Plug amplified speakers or headphones into this

Slide to open the LCD panel.

amplified speakers are not plugged in.

■

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.

■

LED on - Notebook is on.

■

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

■

LED off - Notebook is off.

built-in microphone is turned off while an external microphone is connected.

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

Left

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Kensington lock

slot

S-Video out jack

Ventilation fan

CD or DVD drive

Component Icon Description

Kensington™ lock slot

S-Video out jack (optional)

Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.

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

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

Plug an S-Video device, such as a television, into this optional jack. For more information, see

“Viewing the display on a television” on page 54.

Warning: Do not work with the notebook resting on your lap. If the air vents are blocked, the notebook may become hot enough to harm your skin. Caution: Do not block or insert objects into these slots. If these slots are blocked, your notebook may overheat resulting in unexpected shutdown or permanent damage to the notebook. Caution: Provide adequate space around your notebook so air vents are not obstructed. Do not use the notebook on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

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

page 42. 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 42.

Right

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Important

Port or jack location may vary by notebook model.

USB ports

Modem jack

PC Card or ExpressCard slot

IEEE 1394 port

USB ports

Memory card reader

Ethernet jack

Component Icon Description

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

PC Card or Express Card slot

IEEE 1394 port (optional)

Memory card reader

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

Insert one Type II PC Card or Type 54 Express Card into this slot. For more information, see “Adding and removing a PCCard or

Express Card” on page 45.

Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire® or i.Link®) device (such as a digital camcorder or MP3 player) into this optional 4-pin IEEE 1394 port.

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 44.

The memory card reader supports Memory

, Memory Stick Pro®, Mini Secure Digital®,

Stick MultiMediaCard™, RS-MultiMediaCard™, and Secure Digital™ cards.

Ethernet jack Plug an Ethernet network cable into this jack.

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

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.

Back

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Power connector

Component Icon Description

Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

Moni tor port Plug a n analog VGA monitor or projecto r into this

port. For more information, see “Viewing the

display on a projector or monitor” on page 50.

Monitor port

Bottom

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Battery latch

Customer care label

Hard drive

bay

Batter y

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

Battery lock

Component Icon Description

Hard drive bay

Customer Care label

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

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

page 98.

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

on page 2.

information, see “Adding or replacing memory

modules” on page 93.

Memory bay

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

“Changing the battery” on page 59.

Battery Provides power when the notebook is not plugged into

AC power.

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

“Changing the battery” on page 59.

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Keyboard area

Multimedia

panel

Keyb oar d

Status indicators

Tou ch pa d

Powe r button

Microphone

Component Icon Description

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

Multimedia panel (optional)

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

keyboard. For more information, see “Using the

keyboard” on page 24.

Use to control playback of CDs and DVDs. The panel includes volume control buttons. For more information, see “Using the optional multimedia panel” on page 31.

the power button for Sleep/Resume mode. For more information on configuring the power button mode, see “Changing advanced settings” on page 65.

Microphone (optional)

Tou ch pa d Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For more

Status indicators

Record audio through this microphone or use it to talk through when making Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls. The built-in microphone is turned off while an external microphone is connected. For the location of your microphone jack, see “Front” on page 6.

information, see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on

page 28.

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.

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

LCD panel

Component Icon Description

Webc am

Webcam (optional)

Use to let others see who they are communicating with when making VoIP calls. The Webcam status indicator turns on when the Webcam is turned on. For more information, see “Using the optional webcam” on

page 32.

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

• Using the optional multimedia panel

• Using the optional webcam

• Adjusting the brightness

• Adjusting the volume

• Turning your wireless radio on or off

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Working safely and comfortably

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

• Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.

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

sight.

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

• Although notebooks are sometimes called “laptops,” do

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

• Do not use the notebook on any soft, conforming

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

Warning

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

Reducing eye strain

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

• Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid

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

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

your notebook in a dark room.

• Avoid focusing your eyes on your screen for long periods

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

• Where feasible, keep your head vertical while looking at

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

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Setting up your computer desk and chair

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

• Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

• Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands

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

• Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes

your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sitting at your notebook

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

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

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

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

• Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.

• Avoid twisting your torso or neck.

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

• Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.

• Take breaks to change your position, stretch your

muscles, and relieve your eyes.

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

variety of tasks.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Connecting the AC adapter

You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or your notebook’s battery. The battery was shipped to you partially charged. You should use the AC adapter right away to fully charge the battery. Allow three hours for the battery to fully charge.

Warning

Do not attempt to disassemble the AC adapter. The AC adapter has no user-replaceable or user-serviceable parts inside. The AC adapter has dangerous voltages that can cause serious injury or death. Contact Gateway about returning defective AC adapters.

Caution

Make sure that you use the AC adapter that came with your notebook or one of the same type purchased from Gateway. Replace the power cord if it becomes damaged. The replacement cord must be of the same type and voltage rating as the original cord or your notebook may be damaged.

Important

If the battery is not fully charged before you use your notebook on battery power for the first time, the battery life may be much shorter than you expect. If the battery life seems short even after being charged for threehours, the

battery may need to be recalibrated. For information on recalibrating the battery,

see “Recalibrating the battery” on page 60.

To connect the AC adapter:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

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2 Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power

connector.

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

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

• Unplug the adapter from your notebook, then plug

it back in.

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

• Make sure the power cord is firmly attached to the

AC adapter.

• Plug the power cord into a different wall outlet.

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

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

Important

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

page 2.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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.

Warning

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

Connecting the dial-up modem

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

Warning

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

To connect the modem:

1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem

jack on your notebook.

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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.

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.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Starting your notebook

Warning

Do not work with the notebook resting on your lap. If the air vents are blocked, the notebook may become hot enough to harm your skin.

Caution

Provide adequate space around your notebook so air vents are not obstructed. Do not use the notebook on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

To start your notebook:

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

LCD panel.

2 Press the power button located above the keyboard.

Tip

For more information about changing the power button mode,

see “Changing advanced settings” on page 65.

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 48.

Tip

See the documentation that came with each device for its setup

instructions.

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

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

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 62.

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 com pletely off. When you wake your notebook from Hibernate mode, however, the programs that were running when your notebook entered Hibernate mode are running just as you left them.

To put your notebook to sleep:

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

saves your session and partially shuts down to save power.

-ORPress F

N+F3.

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 62.

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.

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.

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Using the status indicators

Important

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

the status indicators on.

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

Disc drive

Num lock

Indicator Icon Description

Wireless network

Caps lock

Num lock

Disc drive

Hard drive

■

LED on - Optional wireless IEEE

802.11 radio is turned on.

■

LED off - Optional wireless IEEE

802.11 radio is turned off.

■

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.

■

LED on - Drive is in use.

■

LED off - Drive is not in use.

■

LED blinking - Hard drive is being accessed.

■

LED off - Hard drive is not being accessed.

Hard drive

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the keyboard

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

Function keys/

System keys

Numeric

keyp ad

key

Navigation keys

Key types

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.

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

Function keys Press these keys labeled F1 to F12

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

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

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Key type Icon Description

System keys Press these colored keys in

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor

FN key Press the FN key in combination

Windows key Press this key to open the Windows

Application key Press this key for quick access to

Arrow keys Press these keys to move the cursor

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

combinations” on page 26.

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

with a colored system key to perform a specific action.

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

shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

up, down, right, or left.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

System key combinations

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

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

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

indicators” on page 23.

Turn the optional IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio on or off. For more information, see “Wireless Ethernet Networking” in your online User Guide. Warning: Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11 communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication.

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 64.

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 50.

Turn the optional Bluetooth radio on or off.

Warning: Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. Bluetooth communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication.

www.gateway.com

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

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

Play or pause the CD or DVD.

Stop playing the CD or DVD.

Skip back one CD track or DVD chapter.

Skip ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

Increase the brightness of the display.

Decrease the brightness of the display.

Increase volume. For more information, see

“Adjusting the volume” on page 36.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Press and hold FN

, then press

To...

this system key...

Decrease volume. For more information, see

“Adjusting the volume” on page 36.

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

page 36.

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

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

Tou ch pa d

Scroll zone

Left button

Right button

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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.

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

Tip

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

to shut down the notebook to connect a USB mouse.

Tip

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

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

Tip

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

To... Do this...

Move the pointer on the screen.

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

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To... Do this...

Select an object on the screen.

Start a program or open a file or folder.

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

Move an object on the screen.

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.

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 th e object where you want it.

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Using the optional multimedia panel

Use the buttons on the optional multimedia panel to control playback of CDs and DVDs as well as media files in programs such as Windows Media Player.

Play/Pause

Stop

Skip back

Skip ahead

Mute sound

Volume up

Volume down

Button Description

Stop playing the CD, DVD, or media file.

Skip back one CD track or DVD chapter.

Play or pause the CD, DVD, or media file.

Skip ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

Mute the sound. Press again to restore the sound. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 36.

— Decrease volume. For more information, see “Adjusting the

+ Increase volume. For more information, see “Adjusting the

volume” on page 36.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the optional webcam

You can use the optional webcam with many of the available Internet chat programs to add video and audio to your chat session. In addition, by using the software included with the webcam, you can take pictures or create video clips. The Webcam status indicator turns on when the Webcam is turned on.

Webcam

Status indicator

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To use the webcam:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Camera Assistant

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

-ORRight-click (Camera assistant software) on the

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

Button Icon Description

Start camera

Effects Adds a decoration or border to

Properties Modifies properties such as

Settings Selects the position of the toolbar

Help Opens online help.

Important

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

Turns on the camera and opens the preview screen.

your picture.

zoom, backlight compensation, brightness, and contrast.

or modifies the picture, video, or audio settings.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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

3 Click one of the following:

Button Icon Description

Snapshot Take a picture of what is

Video recording

Audio recording

Functions Change a setting or access

Resolution Change the size of the

Mute Turn audio capture on or

Effects Add a decoration or

currently in the preview screen.

Create a video recording.

Create an audio recording.

online help.

picture.

off.

border to your picture.

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Tip

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

Tip

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

Adjusting the brightness

To adjust screen brightness:

• Use the increase brightness and decrease brightness

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

key combinations” on page 26.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

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

, then click

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Adjusting the volume

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

To adjust the overall volume level using hardware

controls:

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

front of the speakers.

-ORUse the mute and volume control buttons on the

keyboard. For more information, see “System key

combinations” on page 26.

-ORUse the mute and volume control buttons on the

optional multimedia panel. For more information, see

“Using the optional multimedia panel” on page 31.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

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

desired volume level.

, then click

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

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

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.

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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.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Turning your wireless radio on or off

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

Warning

Radio frequency wireless comm unication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication.

Warning

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

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio

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

To turn the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio on 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.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

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

wireless off.

, then click

Tip

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

Bluetooth radio

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

To turn the Bluetooth radio on or off:

• Press FN + F6.

Tip

For more information about using your notebook on a Bluetooth Personal

Area Network, see “Bluetooth Networking” in your online User Guide

Help

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

NTER.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

CHAPTER4

Using Drives and Accessories

• Using the CD or DVD drive

• Using the memory card reader

• Adding and removing a PC Card or

Express Card

• Installing a printer or other peripheral device

• Viewing the display on a projector or monitor

• Viewing the display on a television

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...

ROM/R/RW

This is your drive type...

CD drive

DVD drive

Combination DVD/CD-RW drive

Multi-format double layer DVD±RW drive

Use your drive for...

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.

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.

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Using a CD or DVD drive

[

Important

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

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

Important

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

Manual eject hole

Eject button

Tip

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

on page 77.

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.

To remove 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 Carefully lift on the edges of the disc until it snaps off

of the spindle.

3 Push the tray in until it is closed.

Tip

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

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

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.

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

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.

Adding and removing a PC Card or Express Card

Your notebook has a PC Card or Express Card slot. This slot accepts one Type II PC Card or 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 a card while your notebook is running. If your card does not work after hot-swapping, see the card manufacturer’s documentation for further information.

Important

To know if your notebook uses PC Cards or Express Cards, look for an eject button next to the slot. If your notebook has an eject button, it uses Type II PC Cards. If your notebook does not have an eject button, it uses Type 54 Express Cards.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

To insert a PC Card or Express Card:

• Push the card firmly into the slot, label-side up, until the

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

Important

Before inserting an Express Card, you must remove the dummy card. Keep the dummy card in a safe place and reinsert it when you remove the Express Card.

To remove a PC Card:

1 Turn off your notebook, then go to step 5.

-ORDouble-click the remove hardware icon in the

taskbar. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box opens.

Important

If the remove hardware icon does not appear on the taskbar, click the show hidden icons button.

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

Hardware device dialog box opens.

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

Remove Hardware dialog box opens.

4 Click OK. 5 Release the eject button by pressing the PC Card eject

button once.

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6 Eject the PC Card by pressing the eject button again.

To remove an Express Card:

1 Turn off your notebook, then go to step 5.

-ORDouble-click the remove hardware icon in the

taskbar. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box 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 Push the Express Card into the notebook. The Express

Card pops out slightly.

6 Pull the Express Card out of your notebook.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

Your notebook may have one or more of the following ports: IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire® or i.Link®), Universal Serial Bus (USB), and S-Video (TV out). You use these ports to connect 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.

IEEE 1394 and 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 an IEEE 1394 or 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 press E

NTER.

Connecting a USB device

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

Important

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.

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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.

Connecting an IEEE 1394 device

Your notebook may have a 4-pin IEEE 1394 port (also known as a Firewire® or i.Link® port) for connecting devices such as a video camera.

Important

For more information about using the IEEE 1394 port on your device, see

your device’s documentation.

To connect your IEEE1394 device to your notebook:

1 Connect one end of the IEEE 1394 cable to your IEEE 1394

device.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

2 Connect the other end of the cable to the IEEE 1394

port on your notebook.

Tip

For more information about editing video, see “Creating a video DVD” in your online User Guide.

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 at the same time as you face your audience.

To use a projector or monitor

1 Turn off your notebook. 2 Connect one end of the VGA cable to the monitor or

projector.

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

port on your notebook.

4 Turn on your notebook. 5 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.

6 Select the options for the projector or monitor, then click

OK.

7 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 a 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.

Adjusting the display properties

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

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

To adjust the display properties on a projector or

monitor:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

Tip

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

2 Click (Change display settings). The Display

Settings dialog box opens.

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

necessary.

5 To use the 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.

6 To use the 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.

7 Click OK.

www.gateway.com

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation

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

To use a projector or monitor for a presentation:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

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

2 Click (Change presentation settings). The

Presentation Settings dialog box opens.

3 Adjust properties such as Turn off screen saver and Set

the volume to if necessary.

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

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

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Viewing the display on a television

The optional S-Video out jack on your notebook lets you view your notebook display on a television screen using a standard S-Video cable.

Important

To turn on external video by default, connect the television (or other

external video device) before starting your notebook.

Important

Audio is not transmitted through an S-Video out jack. Use the built-in speakers or a set of headphones or external powered speakers, or connect your notebook to a stereo system using the headphone jack to hear sound while playing a DVD. DVD playback to a VCR will be scrambled by copyright protection software.

To view your notebook display on a television:

1 With your notebook off, connect one end of a standard

S-Video cable to the optional S-Video out jack on your notebook.

2 Connect the other end of the cable to the Video in jack

on your television or VCR.

3 Turn on the television or VCR. 4 Start your notebook.

www.gateway.com

Adjusting the television display settings

You may need to modify the television settings to match the television you are connecting to.

To adjust the display properties on a television:

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

Windows Mobility Center. The Windows Mobility Center window opens.

Tip

For more information about the Windows Mobility Center, see

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

2 Click (Change display settings). The Display

Settings dialog box opens.

3 Click Advanced Settings.

Important

Depending on the graphic processor installed in your notebook,

the remaining steps may vary.

4 Click Intel Graphics Media Accelerator Driver for

Mobile.

5 Click Graphics Properties.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

6 Click on a tab and make changes to the television settings

as necessary.

Tip

If you are traveling internationally, you may need to change the video standard. For example, many televisions outside of the United States use PAL instead of NTSC.

CHAPTER5

Managing Power

• Monitoring the battery charge

• Recharging the battery

• Changing the battery

• Recalibrating the battery

• Extending battery life

• Changing notebook power settings

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

Monitoring the battery charge

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

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

• Move the mouse pointer over the power cord icon

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

• Wait for a Low Battery warning message to appear.

• Look at the battery charge status indicator.

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

Tip

For more information about the battery charge status indicator, see “Front” on page 6.

Tip

For more information about recalibrating the battery, see

“Recalibrating the battery” on page 60.

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.

www.gateway.com

Changing the battery

Warning

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

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

The 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 used batteries promptly. Keep away from children.

Caution

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

To replace the battery:

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

to step 2.

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

outlet, save your work and turn off the notebook.

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

4 Slide the battery release latch, then slide the battery out

of the notebook.

5 Slide a recharged battery into the notebook until it snaps

into place.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

6 Slide the battery lock to the locked position . 7 Turn your notebook over. 8 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.

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 As soon as it starts and you see a startup screen, press

F2. The BIOS Setup utility opens.

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

by pressing the spacebar.

5 Open the Exit menu, highlight Exit Saving Changes,

then press E

6 Select Yes, then press ENTER.

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

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

7 Press ESC. The battery charge indicator now displays an

accurate battery charge.

NTER.

Important

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

information” on page 2.

www.gateway.com

Extending battery life

Maximizing battery performance

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

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

Conserving battery power

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

• Turn off wireless networking and Bluetooth.

• Dim the display as low as is comfortable.

• Disconnect all external devices, like IEEE 1394 and USB

devices.

• Remove PC Cards or Express Cards when you do not

need them. Many PC Cards or 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 64.

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

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

• Use Hibernate mode for maximum power savings while

your notebook is not in use.

• Use the notebook touchpad instead of an external

mouse.

• Decrease or mute speaker volume.

• Turn off all scheduled tasks.

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

applications.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

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

you do not use battery power by running optical drives.

• 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 58.

Tip

For more information about traveling with your notebook, see

“Traveling with Your Notebook” on page 67.

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.

www.gateway.com

• 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 65.

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 lock icon, then click Hibernate.

Press the power button.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

Changing notebook power settings

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

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

Changing the power plan

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

Three power plans are pre-defined for you:

• Balanced - This is the default power plan which balances

performance and battery life.

• Power saver - This power plan sacrifices performance in

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

• 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.

www.gateway.com

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

plan window opens.

3 Select the power plan you want to use.

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

selected, then click Save changes.

Help

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

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

Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

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.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

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

plan window opens.

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

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

Help

For more information about changing the power management

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

power management in the Search Help box, then press E

NTER.

To turn on Hybrid Sleep mode:

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

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

2 Click Change advanced power settings. The Power

Options dialog box opens.

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.

CHAPTER6

Traveling with Your Notebook

• Packing your notebook

• Traveling by air

• Dial-up modem

• Radio frequency wireless connections

• Files

• Security

• Power

• Additional tips

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

Packing your notebook

• Remove all discs, PC Cards or Express Cards, peripheral

devices, and cables. Remember to pack those you will need while traveling.

• Pack your notebook securely into a briefcase or

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

• Keep your notebook stable during travel. Secure it to

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

Traveling by air

• Do not check your notebook as luggage.

• Charge the battery in case airport security asks you to

start your notebook.

• Have your notebook hand-inspected or sent through the

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

• Turn off you notebook for takeoff and landing.

• Turn off all wireless devices while in the aircraft.

Dial-up modem

• Take a telephone cord to connect the modem to

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

• Take a telephone line protector.

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

especially if you are traveling internationally.

• Take remote access information with you so you can

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

www.gateway.com

Radio frequency wireless connections

Important

If your notebook came equipped with an internal embedded wireless device, see “Legal Information” on page 129 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 and Bluetooth 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 38.

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.

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.

To create a startup password:

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

screen, press F2. The BIOS Setup utility opens.

2 Open the Security menu, highlight Set Supervisor

Password, then press ENTER and follow the

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

Important

You must enter the Supervisor Password each time you use

the BIOS Setup utility.

3 Highlight Set User Password, then press ENTER and

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

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.

Power

www.gateway.com

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

Changes, then press E

NTER.

7 When you start your computer, you are prompted to

enter the user password you set in step 3.

• Review the information in “Protecting your notebook” in

your 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 57.

Additional tips

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

portable USB hub to provide additional USB ports.

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

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

• If your notebook has been exposed to cold

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

• Carry proof of ownership or a merchandise passport

when traveling internationally.

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

• Consult your insurance company and credit card

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

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

additional driver or software.

Tip

You can create a Drivers and Applications Recovery disc using the

Gateway Recovery Center. For more information, see “Preparing for

software and device driver recovery” on page 79.

CHAPTER7

Maintaining Your Notebook

• Caring for your notebook

• Cleaning your notebook

• Maintaining the battery

• Cleaning CDs or DVDs

• Recovering your system

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Caring for your notebook

To extend the life of your notebook:

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

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

• When transporting your notebook, we recommend that

you put it in a carrying case.

• Keep your notebook away from magnetic fields.

Magnetic fields can erase data on hard drives.

• Never turn off your notebook when the drive indicator

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

• Avoid subjecting your notebook to extreme temperature

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

• Keep all liquids away from your notebook. When spilled

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

• Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt

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

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

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

• When storing your notebook for an extended period of

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

Cleaning your notebook

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

• A soft, lint-free cloth

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

extension

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• Cotton swabs

• A CD or DVD drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

Warning

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

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

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.

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.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Maintaining the battery

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

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

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

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

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

Storing batteries

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

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

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

www.gateway.com

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

Caution

When the battery is in the notebook and the notebook is running on AC

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

Cleaning CDs or DVDs

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

Recovering your system

You can solve most notebook problems by following the information in “Troubleshooting” on page 101 or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com solving may also involve re-installing some or all of the notebook’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions.

Caution

To prepare your notebook for additional system recovery options, you

should create a set of software and driver recovery discs as soon as possible. For instructions, see “Preparing for software and device driver recovery” on page 79.

. Problem

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

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

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

drivers” on page 78. For instructions on reinstalling

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

• If re-installing software or drivers does not help, then the

problem may be solved by returning your system to a previous state when everything was working correctly. For instructions, see “Using Microsoft System Restore” on

page 84.

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

return your system to factory condition, see “Recovering

your system to its factory condition” on page 87.

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

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

“Recovering your system using the Windows DVD” on page 88.

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

drivers using recovery discs, see “Recovering

pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs” on page 82.

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers

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

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

www.gateway.com

Preparing for software and device driver recovery

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

Caution

Although you may not be expecting to need recovery discs, we

recommend that you prepare for any eventuality and create a set of recovery discs while you have the opportunity.

Important

Your notebook m ay have shipped with a Drivers and Applications Recovery

disc. If this is the case, you may want to create an additional set of discs in case the originals are lost or damaged.

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

To create discs for recovering pre-installed software

and drivers:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery

Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The

Gateway Recovery Center opens.

2 Click Applications and drivers external media, then

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

3 Click Create system recovery discs, then click Next.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

4 Insert a blank, recordable disc into the recordable disc

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

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

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

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

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

Important

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

Tip

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

6 If multiple discs are required, insert the additional blank

discs when prompted.

7 When the process is finished, the Congratulations!

window opens.

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

store them in a safe place.

www.gateway.com

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using Gateway Recovery Center

To recover specific drivers and software:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery

Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The

Gateway Recovery Center opens.

Important

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

“Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs” on page 82.

2 To recover software that was pre-installed, click

Programs, then click Application recovery.

- OR -

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click Hardware, then click Device driver recovery.

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

click Next.

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs

If you created a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, each disc contains a unique set of software and drivers. If a recovery disc does not offer the software or driver you need to recover, try another disc.

www.gateway.com

To recover software and drivers using recovery discs:

1 Insert a software and driver recovery disc into the CD or

DVD drive. If an AutoPlay dialog box appears, click Run Grc_Vista.exe. If an AutoPlay dialog box does not appear and Gateway Recovery Center does not start, open Computer and double-click the file Grc_Vista.exe on the disc. The Gateway Recovery Center starts.

2 To recover pre-installed software, click Application

recovery, then click the software you want to recover.

- OR -

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

To recover pre-installed device drivers, click Device driver recovery, then click the type of driver you want

to recover.

3 Click Next. 4 If the software or driver is not shown on the list and you

have a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, close Gateway Recovery Center and try another disc.

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.

Windows automatically creates an additional restore point each day, and also each time you install software or device drivers. You can also create a restore point manually. For instructions, see “Manually creating a restore point” on

page 86.

Help

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

www.gateway.com

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.

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

using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a

restore point dialog box opens.

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

Finish. A confirmation message box appears.

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

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

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Manually creating a restore point

To manually create a restore point:

1 Click (Start), Control Panel, System and

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

2 On the left side of the window, click Create a restore

point or change settings, then click Next. The System

Properties dialog box opens to the System Protection tab.

3 Click Create. The Create a restore point dialog box opens.

4 Type a description for the restore point (such as the date

and time), then click Create. The restore point is created.

5 Click OK.

www.gateway.com

Recovering your system to its factory condition

If your notebook’s problems are not solved by any of the other recovery options, you may need to recover its hard drive to its factory condition. This process is called a factory recovery.

Caution

A complete factory recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then reinstalls Windows and any pre-installed software and device drivers. If you can access important files on your hard drive, back them up now.

To delete everything on your hard drive and re-install all

factory software:

1 If you can still run Windows:

a Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery

Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The

Gateway Recovery Center opens.

b Click Recovery, then click Next. Your notebook

restarts.

2 If you cannot run Windows:

a Turn on or restart your notebook.

b While the notebook is starting up, repeatedly press

F8 until the Recovery Options screen opens. If Windows starts to load instead, restart the notebook and try again.

3 Press the arrow keys on your keyboard to select Repair

Your Computer, then press E

Gateway System Recovery starts, and the System Recovery Options dialog box opens.

4 Select a language and keyboard layout, then click Next. 5 Click the User name box to select a Windows user

account, click in the Password box and type the user account’s password (if any), then click Next. The System Recovery Options menu opens.

6 Click Restore Application. The Welcome to Gateway

System Recovery window opens.

7 Click Next.

NTER.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

8 To perform a recovery with data backup

(recommended), click Recovery with automatic data backup, then click Next.

Important

Before your hard drive is recovered, your personal files and folders

will be automatically backed up to c:\backup.

- OR To perform a full factory recovery without data backup,

click Full factory recovery, then click Next.

Caution

Continuing with the full factory recovery will delete everything on your hard drive. Make sure that you have backed up any important files you want to save.

9 Click Yes, then click Next. The Factory image recovery

window opens, which shows you the progress of the system recovery.

When recovery is finished, the Recovery is complete window opens.

10 Click Finish, then click Restart. Your notebook restarts

in its original factory condition. You still need to reinstall any software that was not pre-installed on your notebook.

If you selected Recovery with automatic data backup in step 8, you can find your backed up files in c:\backup.

Recovering your system using the Windows DVD

If you install a new hard drive or completely re-format your original hard drive, you must recover your system using the Windows Vista recover your notebook’s pre-installed software and device drivers.

To completely re-install Windows:

operating system DVD. You also need to

1 If you can still run Windows, back up your personal files,

and create a set of software and driver recovery discs (if you have not already done so). For instructions, see “To

create discs for recovering pre-installed software and drivers:” on page 79.

2 Insert the Windows DVD into your notebook’s DVD drive,

then turn on or restart your notebook.

www.gateway.com

3 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.

4 Press the arrow keys to select the drive containing the

Windows DVD, then press E instructions.

NTER and follow the on-screen

5 After Windows is completely re-installed, use the

software and driver recovery discs you created to recover your notebook’s pre-installed software and device drivers. For instructions, see “Recovering

pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs” on page 82.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

CHAPTER8

Upgrading Your Notebook

• Preventing static electricity discharge

• Adding or replacing memory modules

• Replacing the hard drive kit

CHAPTER 8: Upgrading Your Notebook

Preventing static electricity discharge

Warning

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.

Warning

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.

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 92.

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 PC Cards or Express Cards.

5 Turn you r no tebook over so t he b otto m is fa cing u p, the n

remove the battery. For more information, see

“Changing the battery” on page 59.

CHAPTER 8: Upgrading Your Notebook

6 Remove the keyboard screw.

Tip

The screw hole is marked with a K.

Screw

7 Loosen the six memory bay cover screws (these screws

cannot be removed).

Screw

Screw Screw

Gateway MT6700, MT6820 Quick Reference Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

About This Reference

About this guide

Accessing your online User Guide

Gateway contact information

Gateway model and serial number

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

For more information

Checking Out Your Notebook

Front

Left

Right

Back

Bottom

Keyboard area

LCD panel

Setting Up and Getting Started

Working safely and comfortably

Reducing eye strain

Setting up your computer desk and chair

Sitting at your notebook

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

Connecting the AC adapter

Protecting from power source problems

Connecting the dial-up modem

Connecting to a broadband modem or network

Starting your notebook

Waking up your notebook

Turning off your notebook

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

Using the status indicators

Using the keyboard

Key types

System key combinations

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

Using the optional multimedia panel

Using the optional webcam

Adjusting the brightness

Adjusting the volume

Turning your wireless radio on or off

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio

Bluetooth radio

Using Drives and Accessories

Using the CD or DVD drive

Identifying drive types

Using a CD or DVD drive

Using the memory card reader

Memory card types

Inserting a memory card

Using a memory card

Removing a memory card

Adding and removing a PC Card or Express Card

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

Connecting a USB device

Connecting an IEEE 1394 device

Viewing the display on a projector or monitor

Adjusting the display properties

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation

Viewing the display on a television

Adjusting the television display settings

Managing Power

Monitoring the battery charge

Recharging the battery

Changing the battery

Recalibrating the battery

Extending battery life

Maximizing battery performance

Conserving battery power

Using alternate power sources

Changing power modes

Using power saving modes

Changing notebook power settings

Changing the power plan

Changing advanced settings

Traveling with Your Notebook

Packing your notebook