Thank you for purchasing this Gateway computer!
This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your
computer and assist in your computing experience.
After setting up and starting your computer, as shown in the setup
instructions, it will ask you questions that will help you connect to the
Internet. Your computer will then configure installed software.
WIRELESSCONNECTION
To connect to a wireless network, first check the wireless features of your
computer are on, and that the router or modem you want to connect to is
also correctly configured.
• If wireless is not on, press the Windows key () + W, type "Wireless"
and then click on Wireless. Click the toggle switch under Wi-Fi to
enable the wireless connection. Click again to disable.
• To connect to a network, press the Windows key () + W, type
"Wireless" and then click on Connect to a network. Select your
network and enter the password if required.
• After a short delay, your computer should connect to the Internet.
If your network is not detected, or your computer does not connect to the
Internet, please refer to your ISP or router’s documentation. After your
computer starts and you can use it, open Internet Explorer and follow the
instructions.
4 - Starting your computer
Alternatively, use a network cable to connect directly to a network port
on your router. Please refer to your ISP or router’s guide.
REGISTRATION
When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that you
register it. This gives you access to some useful benefits, such as:
• Faster service from our trained representatives.
• Membership in the Gateway community: receive promotions and
participate in customer surveys.
• The latest news from Gateway.
How to register
During the initial startup of your computer, a window will invite you to
register. Please fill in the information and click Next. The second window
you'll see contains optional fields that will help us to provide you with a
more personable customer service experience.
Another option
Another way to register your Gateway product is to visit our website at
registration.gateway.com. Choose your country and follow the simple
instructions.
After registering, you will be sent a confirmation email with important
information that you should keep in a safe place.
Starting your computer - 5
SOFTWAREINSTALLATION
Your computer will automatically install software and prepare your
computer for use. This may take some time, please do not turn off your
computer; wait until the installation has finished.
RECOVERY
You should create recovery discs as soon as you are able. The Gateway
Recovery Management program allow you to create recovery discs and
then to restore or reinstall applications and drivers provided by Gateway.
HAVINGTROUBLE?
Gateway provides several options to support your purchase.
Gateway support
Make sure you write down your computer serial number, date and place of
purchase and model name on the area provided in this guide; save your
proof of purchase. Before you call us, please write down any error
message that accompanies the problem, and have the computer in front of
you and switched on if possible. Having these items to hand when
contacting us will ensure better and quicker service.
Gateway website
Remember to visit www.gateway.com - Check out the support section for
up-to-date information, help, drivers and downloads.
6 - Starting your computer
Warranty and contact information
You can find information about the warranty for your computer and how to
contact technical support in your computer’s Warranty.
Starting your computer - 7
COMPUTER BASICS
SAFETYANDCOMFORT
Safety precautions
Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably and
to avoid health problems.
Computer environment
Make sure that the computer:
• Is used on a stable surface, stand or table. A fall can seriously damage
the computer.
• Is not used on a surface that vibrates, or used when taking part in sport,
exercise or other activities in a dynamic environment. Vibration or
movement can loosen fastenings, damage internal components and
even cause battery leakage.
• Is away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
• Is away from magnetic fields or any device generating static electricity.
• Is kept at least 30 centimetres (one foot) away from a mobile phone.
• Is not in a dusty or damp environment.
• Is not used near water. Never spill liquids of any kind on or into your
computer.
8 - Computer Basics
• Is not placed on a carpet or any other surface that may have an
electrical charge.
Please note
• Slots and openings are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable
operation of the product and to protect it from overheating. These
openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never
be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar
surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or
heat register, or in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is
provided.
• Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as
they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind onto or into
the product.
• To avoid damage of internal components and to prevent battery
leakage, do not place the product on a vibrating surface.
• Never use it under sporting, exercising, or any vibrating environment
which will probably cause unexpected short current or damage rotor
devices, HDD, optical drive, and even exposure risk from lithium battery
pack.
Cables
Make sure that:
• Cables are not strained and that there is no risk of people walking or
tripping over them.
Computer Basics - 9
• Other devices do not crush the cables.
• The power cable is connected to the computer before connecting the
power cable to the AC power outlet.
• The power cable is unplugged from the power outlet before
disconnecting the power cable from the computer.
• Three-pin power cords are connected to a grounded power outlet.
• The power outlet is easily accessible and as close to the computer as
possible (do not overload it with too many adapters).
If your computer uses an external AC adapter:
• Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter. Allow the adapter to
cool properly during use by keeping it clear of objects.
• Only use the AC adapter that is supplied with your computer. Although
other adapters may look similar, using them can damage your computer.
If a replacement is required, use only parts certified for use with your
computer.
Cleaning your computer
• Always unplug your computer from the power outlet before cleaning it.
• Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, use a damp cloth instead.
• Never spray cleaning product directly on the screen.
• If you spill liquid on your computer, switch it off immediately, unplug the
AC adapter, remove the battery and make sure it is completely dry
before switching it on again. Wait overnight if necessary.
10 - Computer Basics
Note: If your computer includes slots for memory cards or expansion
devices, plastic ’dummies’ may be installed in the card slots. Dummies
protect unused slots from dust, metal objects or other particles. Save
the dummies for use when no cards are in the slots.
Servicing your computer
Do not attempt to service your computer yourself, as opening or removing
covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other risks. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.
Unplug your computer from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel when:
• the power cord or plug is damaged, cut or frayed,
• liquid was spilled into the product,
• the product was exposed to rain or water,
• the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged,
• the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
• the product does not operate normally after following the operating
instructions
Note: Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions, since improper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician
to restore the product to normal condition.
Computer Basics - 11
Health precautions
• The bottom surface, areas around ventilation openings and AC adapter
may get hot. To avoid injury, ensure they do not come in contact with
your skin or body.
• Your device and its enhancements may contain small parts. Keep them
out of the reach of small children.
• The computer and accessories may contain small parts. Keep them out
of the reach of small children.
• If you work or play for hours at a time, then make sure you take regular
breaks. Look away from the computer's screen once in a while. Do not
use your computer if you are tired.
• Arrange your computer so that you can work in a natural and relaxed
position. Place items that you use frequently within easy reach.
• Position your computer directly in front of you for increased safety and
comfort. Ensure that your keyboard and touchpad are at a comfortable
height. The screen should be about 45-70 cm (18-30 inches) from your
eyes.
If you use your computer for long periods while sitting at a desk, invest
in an external keyboard for improved comfort.
• To protect your hearing, when using speakers or headphones, increase
volume gradually until you can hear clearly and comfortably; do not
increase the volume level after your ears have adjusted. Do not listen to
high volumes for extended periods. Do not increase the volume to block
out noisy surroundings; decrease the volume if you cannot hear people
speaking near you.
12 - Computer Basics
• The computer’s underside, power adapter and the air from
ventilation slots may become hot during use. Avoid
continuous body contact and do not place the computer on
your lap while it is operating.
• Ensure that the computer’s ventilation slots and openings are never
obstructed or covered. Do not place the computer on a soft surface
(such as a carpet, chair or bed) that may block ventilation slots.
• Do not push objects of any kind into ventilation or case slots as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that may result in
a fire or electric shock.
• Some disorders of the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, legs and
back may be associated with, or aggravated by certain repetitive
actions. To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, type with
your wrists straight and your hands and wrists floating above the
keyboard. If you experience periods of pain, tingling, numbness or other
discomfort, please contact your doctor.
• We advise that parents monitor the use of games by their children. If you
or your child experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness,
blurred vision, eye or muscle twitches, loss of consciousness,
disorientation, any involuntary movement or convulsion, IMMEDIATELY
discontinue use and consult your doctor. This may happen even if the
person has no medical history of epilepsy.
Computer Basics - 13
GETTINGTOKNOWYOUR
COMPUTER
After setting up your computer, as illustrated in the setup instructions, let
us show you around your new Gateway computer.
Gateway NE56R/NE51B
14 - Getting to know your computer
TOPVIEW - DISPLAY
#IconItemDescription
1Webcam
Web camera for video communication.
A light next to the Webcam indicates that the
webcam is active.
2Display screen
3MicrophoneInternal microphone for sound recording.
Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD),
displays computer output.
Getting to know your computer - 15
TOPVIEW - KEYBOARD
#IconItemDescription
1
Power button /
indicator
Turns the computer on and off. Indicates the
computer's power status.
2Keyboard
3Touchpad
16 - Getting to know your computer
For entering data into your computer.
- Special keys are described on page 17.
Touch-sensitive pointing device which
functions like a computer mouse.
#IconItemDescription
4
5SpeakersDeliver stereo audio output.
Click buttons (left
and right)
The left and right side of the button function as
left and right selection buttons.
Special keys
Your computer’s keyboard includes keys that activate special functions.
The function of each key is clearly marked with an icon.
Icon FunctionDescription
Hotkey for second
Fn
function
HelpOpens the help menu.
Backup
Activates a second function on certain keys.
E.g. press the Fn key to activate the F1 to F12 keys.
Allows you to create backup copies of your computer;
either the entire system or only selected files and
folders. Create a regular schedule or make copies
whenever you want.
Communication
Display toggle
Screen blank
Enables/disables the computer’s communication
devices.
Switches display output between the display screen,
external monitor (if connected) and both.
Turns the display screen backlight off to save power.
Press any key to return.
Getting to know your computer - 17
Icon FunctionDescription
Touchpad toggleTurns the internal touchpad on and off.
Play/PausePlay or pause a selected media file.
StopStop playing the selected media file.
PreviousReturn to the previous media file.
NextJump to the next media file.
Brightness upIncreases the screen brightness.
Brightness downDecreases the screen brightness.
Speaker toggleTurns the speakers on and off.
Volume downDecreases the sound volume.
Volume upIncreases the sound volume.
Opens the Social Networks application.
Social Networking
- If this application is not installed, the key will start
your instant messenging application.
18 - Getting to know your computer
Hotkeys
The computer uses hotkeys (key combinations) to access function keys
and navigation commands.
To activate hotkeys, press and hold the Fn key (bottom left) before
pressing the other key in the hotkey combination.
HotkeyFunctionDescription
Fn + Special keys
(see page 17)
Fn + HomeScrolls to the beginning of a document.
Fn + EndScrolls to the end of a document.
Fn + Page upScrolls up a page in a document.
Fn + Page DownScrolls down a page in a document.
- Note: It is not necessary to press the Fn key to use the F1 to F12 function keys when
starting your computer or when using the BIOS.
To swap the hotkey and special function of the F1 to F12 keys, change the function
key setting in the BIOS (to open the BIOS press F2 when starting your computer,
then select the Main menu and change Function key behavior to Function keys).
Function keysActivates the F1 to F12 keys.
Touchpad
The touchpad controls the arrow on the screen; called the pointer or
the cursor. When you slide your finger across the touch-sensitive pad,
the pointer will follow this movement.
Getting to know your computer - 19
Multi-gesture
The touchpad supports Multi-gesture commands; it can recognise patterns
that use more than one finger. This allows you to control applications with
a few simple gestures, such as:
• Pinch: Quickly zoom in and out of
photos, maps and documents with a
simple finger-thumb gesture.
• Flip: Browse photos, websites or
documents by sliding two fingers horizontally.
• Rotate: Rotate photos or PDF files in 90° steps with a two-finger pivot
motion.
• Scroll: Swiftly navigate web pages, documents and music playlists up
or down by moving two fingers vertically.
20 - Getting to know your computer
FRONTVIEW
#IconItemDescription
Accepts Secure Digital (SD), MultiMediaCard
(MMC), Memory Stick PRO (MS PRO), xD-
1Multi-in-1 card reader
Power indicatorIndicates the computer's power status.
Battery indicator
2
HDD indicatorIndicates when the hard disk drive is active.
Picture Card (xD).
- Push to remove/install the card. Only one
card can operate at any given time.
Indicates the computer's battery status.
- Charging: The light shows amber when the
battery is charging.
- Fully charged: The light shows blue when in
AC mode.
Communication
indicator
- Note: The front panel indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed.
Indicates the computer’s wireless connectivity
device status.
Getting to know your computer - 21
LEFTVIEW
#IconItemDescription
1DC-in jackConnects to your computer’s AC adapter.
2Ethernet (RJ-45) port
3
4
5HDMI port
6USB port
22 - Getting to know your computer
Ventilation and
cooling fan
External display
(VGA) port
Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/1000-based
network.
Allows the computer to stay cool.
- Do not cover or obstruct the openings.
Connects to a display device (e.g., external
monitor, LCD projector).
Supports high-definition digital video
connections.
Connects to USB devices.
- If a port is black, it is USB 2.0 compatible, if
it is blue it is also USB 3.0 compatible (see
below).
#IconItemDescription
Microphone jackAccepts inputs from external microphones.
Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g.,
7
Headphones /
speaker jack
speakers, headphones).
- Supports compatible 3.5 mm headsets with
built-in microphone (e.g. Acer smart
handheld headsets).
Information on USB 3.0
• Compatible with USB 3.0 and earlier devices.
• For optimal performance, use USB 3.0-certified devices.
• Defined by the USB 3.0 specification (SuperSpeed USB).
Getting to know your computer - 23
RIGHTVIEW
#IconItemDescription
Connects to USB devices.
1USB ports
2Optical driveInternal optical drive; accepts CDs or DVDs.
- If a port is black, it is USB 2.0 compatible, if
it is blue it is also USB 3.0 compatible (see
below).
3
4
5
24 - Getting to know your computer
Optical disk access
indicator
Optical drive eject
button
Emergency eject
hole
Lights up when the optical drive is active.
Ejects the optical disk from the drive.
Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer
is turned off.
- Carefully insert a straightened paper clip to
eject the optical drive tray.
#IconItemDescription
Kensington lock slot
6
Connects to a Kensington-compatible
computer security lock.
- Wrap the computer security lock cable
around an immovable object such as a table
or handle of a locked drawer.
Insert the lock into the notch and turn the key
to secure the lock.
Some keyless models are also available.
Information on USB 3.0
• Compatible with USB 3.0 and earlier devices.
• For optimal performance, use USB 3.0-certified devices.
• Defined by the USB 3.0 specification (SuperSpeed USB).
Getting to know your computer - 25
BASEVIEW
#IconItemDescription
1Battery release latch
Releases the battery for removal. Insert a
suitable tool and slide to release.
Memory
2
3Battery bayHouses the computer's battery pack.
4
26 - Getting to know your computer
compartment
Hard disk bay
Ventilation and
cooling fan
Houses the computer's main memory.
Houses the computer's hard disk (secured with
screws).
Allows the computer to stay cool.
- Do not cover or obstruct the openings.
UPGRADINGYOURCOMPUTER
EXPANDINGTHROUGHOPTIONS
Your computer offers you many options for a complete computing
experience.
Connectivity options
Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For
instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer,
read the following section.
Memory card reader
Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital
cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones.
Inserting a memory card
1. Align the card so that the connector points towards
the port, with the connectors facing down.
2. Carefully slide the card into the port. If you find you need to use any
force to insert the card, try reorientating the card slightly.
3. Push the card until it clicks into place. A few millimetres of the card will
extend from beyond the slot.
If the card contains some files, the Windows Auto Play window may
appear (this depends on the contents of the card) and ask you if you wish
Upgrading your computer - 27
to use a program to access the contents of the card. Select an option
3
2
1
here if it is appropriate, otherwise select Cancel. If the card contains no
files, or unknown files, a window will open showing the contents of the
card.
SD, SDHC and SDXC cards
Different types of SD cards cover different capacities, while using the
same overall design. SD cards contain up to 4 GB, SDHC cards contain
up to 32 GB, and SDXC cards can contain up to 2048 GB (2 TB). Your
computer provides an SDHC or SDXC compatible card reader.
Note: SDXC memory cards can only be used in an SDXC-compatible
reader; SD and SDHC cards can be used in either type.
Removing
a card from a memory card reader
1. Click on Show hidden icons
arrow in the Notification Area (next
to the clock).
2. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon.
3. Click on Eject SD Card (or the
name of the device).
4. Wait until a Safe to Remove Hardware message is displayed.
5. Remove the card.
28 - Upgrading your computer
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