Gateway NV40, NV42, NV48, NV52 Quick Reference Guide

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NOTEBOOK

REFERENCEGUIDE

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

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

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

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

Contacting Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Gateway model and serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

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

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . 18

Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . 18

Connecting the optional dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . 19

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

Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Using the status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Contents

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

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

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

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

Using the capacitive touch keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Using the webcam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Adjusting the brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . 37

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio . . . . . . . . . . 37

Bluetooth radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Chapter 4: Using Drives and Accessories . . . 39

Using the DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Using a DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Installing a printer or other peripheral device . . . . 44

Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or

television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Adjusting the display properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Using the projector or monitor for a

presentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Chapter 5: Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Maximizing battery performance . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

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Changing notebook power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Changing the power plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Chapter 6: Traveling with Your Notebook . 63

Packing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Traveling by air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Additional tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Chapter 7: Maintaining Your Notebook . . . 69

Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Maintaining the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Storing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Creating recovery discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . 77

Returning to a previous system condition . . . . . 78

Returning your system to its factory condition . 80

Chapter 8: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Diskette drive (external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

iii

Contents

Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Networks (wired) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Networks (wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . 110

Appendix A: Legal Information. . . . . . . . . 113

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

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 been included on your hard drive. Your 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

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

Documentation.

User Guide

Gateway contact information

Contacting Gateway Customer Care

Your

Setup Guide

contacting Gateway Customer Care.

contains information about

has

www.gateway.com

Gateway model and serial number

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

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

Important

The label shown in this section is for informational purposes only. Label information varies by model, features ordered, and location.

The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the bottom of your notebook includes the product key code for your operating system.

For more information

For more information about your notebook, visit Gateway’s Web address shown on your notebook’s label. The

Support

documentation and detailed specifications.

Support

page also has links to additional Gateway

page at www.gateway.com or the

CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

CHAPTER2

Checking Out Your

•

Front

•

Left

•

Right

•

Back

•

Bottom

•

Keyboard area

•

LCD panel

Notebook

Front

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Memory card reader

Ventilation fan

Component Icon Description

Memory card reader

Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.

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 43. The

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

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.

Left

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Kensington lock slot

Ventilation fan

Monitor port

HDMI out jack (optional)

Ethernet jack

Microphone jack

USB port

Headphone jack

Component Icon Description

Kensington™ lock slot

Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components.

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

Monitor port Plug an analog VGA monitor or projector

into this port. For more information, see

“Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television” on page 46.

Ethernet jack Plug an Ethernet network cable into this

jack. Plug the other end of the cable into a cable modem, DSL modem, or an Ethernet network jack. For more information, see “Connecting to a

broadband modem or network” on page 18.

USB port Plug USB devices (such as a diskette drive,

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

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Component Icon Description

Microphone jack

Headphone jack Plug amplified speakers or headphones

HDMI out jack (optional)

HDMI Plug an HDMI device, such as a high

Plug a microphone into this jack.

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

❥

Headphone with SPDIF support

definition television, into this optional jack. For more information, see “Viewing

the display on a projector, monitor, or television” on page 46.

Right

DVD drive

USB port

Power button

Component Icon Description

DVD drive Insert CDs or DVDs into this drive. For

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

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

more information, see “Using the DVD

drive” on page 40. 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 40.

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

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

settings” on page 60.

Back

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Battery

Modem jack

(optional)

Power connector

Component Icon Description

Battery Provides power when the notebook is not

Modem jack (optional)

Power connector

plugged into AC power.

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

“Connecting the optional dial-up modem” on page 19.

Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.

Bottom

Battery

lock

Memory/

Hard drive bay

Battery latch

Ventilation slots and cooling fan

MicroPCI

bay

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Component Icon Description

Battery Provides power when the notebook is not

Battery lock

Battery latch

MicroPCI bay

Memory bay

Hard drive bay

Ventilation slots and cooling fan

plugged into AC power.

Slide to unlock the battery. For more information, see “Changing batteries” on

page 53.

Slide to release the battery. For more information, see “Changing batteries” on

page 53.

MicroPCI modules are located in this bay.

Memory modules are located in this bay.

The hard drive is located in this bay.

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

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Keyboard area

Keyboard area for select models

Speakers

Status

indicators

Keyboard

Power/Battery

indicators

Touchpad

Capacitive touch keys

Component Icon Description

Speakers Left and right speakers deliver stereo audio

Status indicators

Keyboard Provides all the features of a full-sized,

Power indicator

Battery charge indicator

output.

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 24.

computer keyboard. For more information, see

“Using the keyboard” on page 25.

❥

LED on - Notebook is on.

❥

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

❥

LED off - Notebook is off.

❥

LED orange - Battery is fully charged.

❥

LED blinking orange - 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.

CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Component Icon Description

Touchpad Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For

Capacitive touch keys

more information, see “Using the EZ Pad

touchpad” on page 29.

Press to access capacitive touch key function. For more information, see “Using the capacitive

touch keys” on page 32.

LCD panel

Microphone

Webcam

Component Icon Description

Webcam Use to let others see who they are

Microphone Use to talk through when making Voice over

communicating with when making VoIP calls. For more information, see “Using the webcam”

on page 34.

Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls.

CHAPTER3

Setting Up and Getting

Started

•

Working safely and comfortably

•

Connecting the AC adapter

•

Connecting to a broadband modem or network

•

Connecting the optional dial-up modem

•

Starting your notebook

•

Turning off your notebook

•

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

•

Using the status indicators

•

Using the keyboard

•

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

•

Using the capacitive touch keys

•

Using the webcam

•

Adjusting the brightness

•

Adjusting the volume

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 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.

unprotected

lap. Notebook

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.

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• 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.

Setting up your computer desk and chair

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

• Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

• Adjust the height of the computer desk so your

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

• Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable,

distributes your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.

• Position your chair so the keyboard is at or

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

• Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of

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

• Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the

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

Sitting at your notebook

• Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists.

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

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

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

• Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.

• Avoid twisting your torso or neck.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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.

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.

Power subsystem

19V DC, 65W AC adapter

Temperature: Operating: 5 °C ~ 35 °C Non-operating: -20 °C ~ 65 °C

Warning

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

Caution

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

Important

If the battery is not fully charged before you use your notebook on battery power for the first time, the battery life may be much shorter than you expect. If the battery life seems short even after being charged for three hours, the battery may need to be recalibrated. For information on recalibrating the battery, see

“Extending battery life” on page 54.

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To connect the AC adapter:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

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.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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 orange and stop blinking.

Important

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

“Gateway contact information” on page 2.

Protecting from power source problems

During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your notebook can increase to levels far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your notebook and peripheral devices by connecting them to a 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.

surge protector

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.

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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.

Tip

When using a cable with a sleeve over the plug, pull

the sleeve back to make sure that the plug locks into the jack.

2 Insert the other end of the network cable into a

cable modem, DSL modem, or Ethernet network jack.

Connecting the optional dial-up modem

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

Warning

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

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To connect the optional modem:

1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the

modem jack on your notebook.

2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a

telephone wall jack.

Important

The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone

lines.

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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 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 60.

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.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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 44.

Tip

See the documentation that came with each device for its setup instructions.

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

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

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 56.

. While in Sleep mode, the power indicator

User Guide

Turning off your notebook

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

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

www.gateway.com

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

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 56.

To put your notebook into hibernation:

N+F3.

• 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 C 2 Click Start Task Manager. The

Manager

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

Task Manager

TRL+ALT+DEL.

Windows Task

dialog box opens.

Windows

dialog box.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To restart your notebook:

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

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

Important

If your notebook does not turn off immediately,

complete the following steps until the notebook turns off:

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

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

Using the status indicators

Important

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 screen.

Power

HDD

Battery

Num lock

Caps lock

Indicator Icon Description

Power indicator

Battery charge indicator

Hard drive

❥

LED on - Notebook is on.

❥

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

❥

LED off - Notebook is off.

❥

LED blue - Battery is fully charged.

❥

LED red - Battery is charging. Important: This LED only lights up when your notebook is connected to AC power.

❥

LED blinking - The drive is

being accessed.

❥

LED off - The drive is not being

accessed.

Bluetooth

www.gateway.com

Indicator Icon Description

Caps lock

❥

LED on - Caps lock is turned on.

❥

LED off - Caps lock is turned off.

Num lock

❥

LED on - Num lock is turned on.

❥

LED off - Num lock is turned off.

❥

Bluetooth

LED on - Bluetooth communication is turned on.

❥

LED off - Bluetooth communication is turned off.

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

key

Windows key

Application key

Arrow keys

Tip

You can attach an external keyboard to the notebook using a USB port. You do not need to shut down the notebook to connect a USB keyboard.

Navigation keys

Key types

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

Key type Icon Description

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Function keys Press these keys labeled F1 to

System keys Press these colored keys in

Navigation keys Press these keys to move the

N key Press the FN key in

Windows key Press this key to open the

F12 to perform actions in programs. For example, pressing F1 may open help. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.

combination with the F to perform specific actions. For more information, see

“System key combinations” on page 27.

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

combination with a colored system key to perform a specific action.

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

N key

Application key Press this key for quick access

to shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.

Arrow keys Press these keys to move the

cursor up, down, right, or left.

www.gateway.com

System key combinations

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

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

Turn the capacitive touch key LEDs on or off. For more information, see

“Using the status indicators” on page 24.

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 58.

Toggle the notebook display in the following order:

❥

The LCD

❥

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

❥

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

the display on a projector, monitor, or television” on page 46.

Turn the optional Bluetooth radio on or off. Warning: Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. Bluetooth communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication. Important: The wireless network switch must be in the ON position for this button to work. For more information, see “Left” on page 7.

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

“Adjusting the volume” on page 35.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Press and hold FN

, then press

this system key...

To...

Turns the display screen backlight off to save power. Press any key to return.

Play/ Pause—Plays or pauses the CD or DVD.

Stop—Stops playing the CD or DVD.

Previous—Skips back one CD track or DVD chapter.

Next—Skips ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

www.gateway.com

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

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

Touchpad

Left button

When you move your finger on the touchpad, the

pointer

direction. You can use the scroll zone to scroll through documents. Use of the scroll zone may vary from program to program.

(arrow) on the screen moves in the same

Right button

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

You can use the EZ-Pad 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

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.

left

and

right buttons

User Guide

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.

below

Select an object on the screen.

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

clicking

To... Do this...

www.gateway.com

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. 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 the object where you want it.

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the capacitive touch keys

PowerSave

Programmable key

MyBackup

Wireless switch

Button Description

PowerSave key—enable the Gateway PowerSave solution. The Gateway PowerSave solution uses the power-saving features of some sub-systems to reduce overall power consumption. When you press the Gateway PowerSave key, the screen brightness is reduced and the graphics chip switched to a lower speed; PCI and WLAN switch to power-saving modes. Press the Gateway PowerSave key again to return to your previous settings (only for certain models).

Programmable key—the programmable key will run the Launch Manager, you can assign an application as your needed. (only for certain models)

MyBackup key—launch Gateway MyBackup solution. The Gateway MyBackup solution is a simple three-step process that allows you to create backup copies of your entire system or selected files and folders according to a schedule or as you need to.

Touchpad toggle

(only for certain models)

Touchpad toggle

(only for certain models)

Mute

Decrease volume

Increase volume

www.gateway.com

Button Description

Wireless switch—turn the optional IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio on or off. For more information, see “Wireless Ethernet Networking” in your online 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.

Touchpad toggle—turn the internal touchpad on and off.

Mute—mutes the sound. Press again to restore the sound. For more information, see “Adjusting the

volume” on page 35.

Decrease volume—press to decrease volume. For

more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on

page 35.

Increase volume—press to increase volume. For

more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on

page 35.

User Guide

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the webcam

You can use the 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.

Microphone

Webcam

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 27.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

click Windows Mobility Center. The

Mobility Center

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

window opens. Slide the

Windows

, then

www.gateway.com

Adjusting the volume

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

To adjust the overall volume level using hardware

controls:

• If you are using external speakers, turn the knob

on the front of the speakers.

-ORUse the volume control buttons on the keyboard.

For more information, see “System key

combinations” on page 27.

-ORUse the mute button and capacitive volume

control on the capacitive touch key. For more information, see “Using the capacitive touch

keys” on page 32.

-ORClick (Start), All Programs, Accessories

click Windows Mobility Center. The

Mobility Center

control to the desired volume level.

window opens. Slide the Volume

, then

Windows

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 (

control slider opens.

2 Click and drag the slider up to increase volume

and down to decrease volume.

Volume) on the taskbar. The volume

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

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

volume, click it again.

4 To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The

Volume Mixer

dialog box opens, where you can

click and drag sliders for individual devices.

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

close it.

X in the top-right corner of the window to

www.gateway.com

Turning your wireless radio on or off

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

Warning

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

Warning

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

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio

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

To turn the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio on:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories

click Windows Mobility Center. When the

Windows Mobility Center

Turn wireless on.

To turn the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio off:

window opens, click

, then

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

click Windows Mobility Center. When the

Windows Mobility Center

Turn wireless off.

Tip

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

User Guide

window opens, click

CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Disabling the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio

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

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:

• Press FN + F6.

To turn the Bluetooth radio off:

• Press FN + F6.

Tip

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

Help and Support. Type the keyword Bluetooth in the Search Help box, then press E

User Guide

Help

For more information about Bluetooth, click Start, then click

NTER.

Disabling the Bluetooth radio

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

CHAPTER4

Using Drives and Accessories

•

Using the DVD drive

•

Using the memory card reader

•

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

•

Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Using the DVD drive

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

Identifying drive types

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

If your drive has this logo...

This is your drive type...

DVD drive

Combination DVD/CD-RW drive

Use your drive for...

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.

www.gateway.com

If your drive has this logo...

ROM/R/RW

This is your drive type...

Multi-format double layer DVD±RW drive

Blu-ray disc

Use your drive for...

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.

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

Blu-ray

Discs,

Using a DVD drive

Important

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

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

Important

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

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Using a tray-load DVD drive

Tip

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

CDs or DVDs” on page 73.

[

Eject button

Manual eject hole

To insert a CD or DVD:

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

tray opens slightly, pull the disc tray completely open.

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

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

3 Push the tray in until it is closed.

To remove a CD or DVD:

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

tray opens slightly, pull the disc tray completely open.

2 Carefully lift on the edges of the disc until it

snaps off of the spindle.

3 Push the tray in until it is closed.

www.gateway.com

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.

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™, and xD-Picture Card™.

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.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

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.

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

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

Important

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

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

Help

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

plug-and-play

and

hot swapping

NTER.

www.gateway.com

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.

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.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television

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

To use a projector, monitor, or television: 1 Turn off your notebook. 2 If you are using the VGA port, connect one end

of the VGA cable to the monitor, projector, or television.

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

of the HDMI cable to the monitor, projector, or television.

www.gateway.com

3 Plug the other end of the VGA cable into the

monitor port on your notebook.

-ORPlug the other end of the HDMI cable into the

optional HDMI port on your notebook.

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

power cord into an AC power source and turn it on.

Windows recognizes the new hardware and the

New Display Detected

6 Select the options for the projector, monitor, or

television, then click OK.

dialog box opens.

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

7 Press FN+F4 to switch between viewing the

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

Important

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

Adjusting the display properties

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

To adjust the display properties on a projector,

monitor, or television:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories

click Windows Mobility Center. The

Mobility Center

Tip

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

User Guide

window opens.

, then

Windows

www.gateway.com

2 Click (Change display settings). The

Settings

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

necessary.

5 To use the monitor, projector, or television as a

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

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

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

7 Click OK.

dialog box opens.

Display

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation

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

CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Accessories

To use a projector, monitor, or television for a

presentation:

1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories

click Windows Mobility Center. The

Mobility Center

window opens.

, then

Windows

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.

CHAPTER5

Managing Power

•

Monitoring the battery charge

•

Recharging the battery

•

Changing batteries

•

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.

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 batteries

Warning

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

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

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

Caution

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

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 both release latches on the bottom of the

computer until the latches click.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

4 Slide the battery out of the notebook.

5 Slide a recharged battery into the notebook until

it snaps into place. 6 Slide the battery lock to the locked position. 7 Turn your notebook over. 8 Open the LCD panel.

Caution

Once a latch is slid to the release position, you need to remove

and reinsert the battery before trying to lock it again.

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:

www.gateway.com

• Turn off wireless networking and Bluetooth.

• Dim the display as low as is comfortable.

• Disconnect all external devices, like USB devices.

• Select the

maximum power savings.

“Changing notebook power settings” on page 58.

Power saver

Tip

For more information about using power plans, see

power plan to get

• Close the LCD panel to turn off the display while

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

• Use Hibernate mode for maximum power savings

while your notebook is not in use.

• Use the notebook touchpad instead of an

external mouse.

• Decrease or mute speaker volume.

• Turn off all scheduled tasks.

• Turn off auto-save features in Microsoft Office

and other applications.

• Copy programs from CDs or DVDs to the hard

drive so you do not use battery power by running optical drives.

• Use the DVD drive only when necessary. This

drive uses a large amount of power.

• Recharge the battery often, take an extra

battery, and fully recharge the batteries before traveling. For more information, see “Recharging

the battery” on page 52.

Tip

For more information about traveling with your

notebook, see “Traveling with Your Notebook” on page 63.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

Using alternate power sources

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

• If traveling internationally, take electrical

adapters. Save the battery for times when you

cannot use a power adapter. If you plan on

taking your AC power adapter, also take a

single-plug surge protector.

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

power receptacle, an automobile power outlet,

or an automobile cigarette lighter, use an

airplane/ automobile power adapter or power

inverter. Save the battery for times when you

cannot use a power adapter.

• To find AC power outlets in airports, look for

them next to support pillars, in large areas such

as boarding gates, and under banks of

telephones.

Changing power modes

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

•

Sleep

- while your notebook is in Sleep mode, it switches to a low power state where devices, such as the display and drives, turn off.

www.gateway.com

•

Hibernate

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

•

Hybrid Sleep

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 60.

- (also called

- while your notebook is in Hybrid

save to disk

) writes all

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

...and you want to...

Hybrid Sleep mode

...then

Press FN+F3.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

If your notebook is...

On Enter

In Sleep, Hybrid Sleep, or Hibernate mode

...and you want to...

Hibernate mode

Exit Sleep, Hybrid Sleep, or Hibernate mode

...then

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

Press the power button.

Changing notebook power settings

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

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

Changing the power plan

Power plans

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

balances performance and battery life.

•

Power saver

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.

(groups of power settings) let you change

- This is the default power plan which

- This power plan sacrifices

www.gateway.com

•

High performance

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

click Windows Mobility Center. The

Mobility Center

2 Click (Change power settings). The

power plan

- This power plan sacrifices

, then

Windows

window opens.

Select a

window opens.

3 Select the power plan you want to use.

- OR Click Change plan settings, modify the power

plan you selected, then click Save changes.

Help

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

NTER.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

Changing advanced settings

Advanced power settings

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

click Windows Mobility Center. The

Mobility Center

2 Click (Change power settings). The

power plan

window opens.

let you assign different

, then

Windows

window opens.

Select a

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 two settings modify the currently selected power plan.

Help

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

To turn on Hybrid Sleep mode:

1On the

plan settings for the plan you are using. The

Select a power plan

Change settings for the plan

2 Click Change advanced power settings. The

Power Options

NTER.

window, click Change

window opens.

dialog box opens.

www.gateway.com

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

front of Allow hybrid sleep.

4 Change the values to On for On battery and

Plugged in.

Help

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

NTER.

CHAPTER 5: Managing Power

CHAPTER6

Traveling with Your

Notebook

•

Packing your notebook

•

Traveling by air

•

Dial-up modem

•

Radio frequency wireless connections

•

Security

•

Power

•

Additional tips

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

Packing your notebook

• Remove all discs, 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 113 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 37.

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

Security

• Get a locking cable for your notebook so you can

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

• Always keep your notebook with you while

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

• Write down your notebook model number and

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

• Whoever sits next to you or behind you can see

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

• Use a startup password to restrict access to your

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

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.

Caution

Use a password that you can remember, but that is

To create a startup password:

1 Restart your notebook. As soon as you see a

startup screen, press F2. The BIOS Setup utility opens.

2 Open the Security menu, highlight Set

Supervisor Password, then press E 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 E

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

NTER and

NTER

Power

www.gateway.com

Important

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

4 Highlight Password on boot, then press ENTER. 5 Highlight Enabled, then press E 6 Open the Exit menu, highlight Exit Saving

Changes, then press E

7 When you start your computer, you are

prompted to enter the user password you set in step 3.

NTER.

• 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 51.

CHAPTER 6: Traveling with Your Notebook

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.

• 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

using the Gateway Recovery Management.

Drivers and Applications Recovery

disc

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:

www.gateway.com

• A soft, lint-free cloth

• An aerosol can of air that has a narrow,

straw-like extension

• Cotton swabs

• A DVD drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

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.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

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.

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.

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.

www.gateway.com

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.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Recovering your system

You can solve most computer problems by following the information in “Troubleshooting” on page 83 or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com Problem solving may also involve reinstalling some or all of the computer’s software (also called or

restoring

everything you need to recover your system under most conditions.

Caution

To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you should create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible. Recovery discs take some time to create, but for long-term reliability, the effort is worth it. For instructions, see “Creating recovery discs”

on page 75.

To recover your system:

1 Create recovery discs as soon as you can.

2 Perform minor fixes.

3 Revert to a previous system condition.

4 Reset your system to its factory condition.

your system). Gateway provides

You can use these discs later for recovering your system from significant hardware and software problems. For instructions, see “Creating

recovery discs” on page 75.

If only one or two items of software or hardware have stopped working correctly, the problem may be solved by reinstalling the software or the device drivers. To recover software and drivers that were pre-installed at the factory, see

“Recovering pre-installed software and drivers” on page 77. For instructions on reinstalling

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

If reinstalling 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

“Returning to a previous system condition” on page 78.

If nothing else has solved the problem and you want to reset your system to factory condition, see “Returning your system to its factory

condition” on page 80.

recovering

www.gateway.com

Creating recovery discs

If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall the Windows operating system and factory-loaded software and drivers. To reinstall using discs, you must create the set of recovery discs beforehand.

To create recovery discs:

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

Gateway Recovery Management.

Recovery Management

Gateway

opens.

2 To create recovery discs for the hard drive’s entire

original contents, including Windows Vista and all factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create factory default disc.

- OR To create recovery discs for only the

factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create driver and application backup disc.

Important

We recommend that you create each type of recovery

disc as soon as possible.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

The

Create Backup Disc

This dialog box tells you the number of blank, recordable discs you will need to complete the recovery discs. Make sure that you have the required number of identical, blank discs ready before continuing.

3 Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the

Burn to list, then click Next. The first disc begins recording, and you can watch its progress on the screen.

dialog box opens.

When the disc finishes recording, the drive ejects it.

4 Remove the disc from the drive and mark it with

a permanent marker.

Important

Write a unique, descriptive label on each disc, such as “Windows Recovery Disc 1 of 2.” or “Apps/Drivers Recovery disc.”

5 If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc

when prompted, then click OK. Continue recording discs until the process is complete.

www.gateway.com

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers

As a troubleshooting step, you may need to reinstall the software and device drivers that came pre-installed on your computer from the factory. You can recover using either your hard drive or the backup discs you have created.

• New software—If you need to recover software

that did computer, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.

• New device drivers—If you need to recover

device drivers that did your computer, follow the instructions provided with the device.

To recover your pre-installed software and drivers:

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

Gateway Recovery Management.

Recovery Management

- OR If you are recovering from your driver and

application recovery disc, insert it into the disc drive, then go to Step 3 after the

Application Recovery

2 Click the Restore tab, then click Reinstall Drivers

or Applications. The

Recovery

not

come pre-installed on your

not

come pre-installed on

opens.

main menu opens.

Gateway Application

main menu opens.

Gateway

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

3 Click Contents. A list of software and device

drivers opens.

4 Click the install icon for the item you want

to install, then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall.

Returning to a previous system condition

Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as

restore points

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.

. In most cases of hard-to-resolve

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 return to a restore point:

1 Click (Start), Control Panel, System and

Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center. The

2 On the left side of the window, click Repair

Windows using System Restore, then click Next. The

Choose a restore point

Backup and Restore Center

dialog box opens.

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 computer.

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Returning your system to its factory condition

In case your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall everything to return your system to its factory condition. You can reinstall using either your hard drive or the recovery discs you have created.

Caution

This complete recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then reinstalls Windows and all software and drivers that were pre-installed on your system. If you can access important files on your hard drive, back them up now.

• If you can still run Windows Vista, see

“Recovering from within Windows Vista” on page 80.

• If you cannot run Windows Vista and your

original hard drive is still working, see

“Recovering from the hard drive during startup” on page 81.

• If you cannot run Windows Vista and your

original hard drive has been completely re-formatted or you have installed a replacement hard drive, see “Recovering from your recovery

discs” on page 82.

Recovering from within Windows Vista

To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed

software and drivers:

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

Gateway Recovery Management.

Recovery Management

2 Click the Restore tab, then click Completely

Restore System to Factory Defaults. The

Restoration

dialog box opens.

opens.

Gateway

Confirm

www.gateway.com

3 Click Yes, then click Start. A dialog box displays

information about the hard drive that the operating system will be recovered to.

Caution

Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard

drive.

4 Click OK. The recovery process begins by

restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. This process may take a while, but a

Management

When the recovery has finished, a dialog box

prompts you to restart your computer. 5 Click OK. Your computer restarts. 6 Follow the on-screen prompts for first-time

system setup.

screen shows you its progress.

Gateway Recovery

Recovering from the hard drive during startup

To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed

software and drivers:

1 Turn on your computer, then press A

during startup.

opens. 2 Click Completely Restore System to Factory

Defaults.

Caution

Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard

drive.

3 Click Next to continue. Your hard drive’s original,

factory-loaded contents are recovered. This

process will take several minutes.

Gateway Recovery Management

LT+F10

CHAPTER 7: Maintaining Your Notebook

Recovering from your recovery discs

To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed

software and drivers:

Caution

Before using your recovery discs, open the BIOS setup

utility and enable the F12 boot menu.

1 Turn on your computer, insert the first system

recovery disc into your optical disc drive, then restart your computer.

Caution

Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard

drive.

2 During startup, press F12 to open the boot menu.

The boot menu is where you can select which device to start from, such as the hard drive or an optical disc.

3 Use your arrow keys to select CDROM/DVD, then

press E disc you inserted.

4 Insert the second recovery disc when prompted,

then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the recovery.

NTER. Windows installs from the recovery

CHAPTER8

Troubleshooting

•

Safety guidelines

•

First steps

•

Troubleshooting

•

Telephone support

CHAPTER 8: Troubleshooting

Safety guidelines

Warning

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

While troubleshooting your notebook, follow these safety guidelines:

• Never remove the memory bay cover or hard

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

• Make sure that you are correctly grounded

before accessing internal components.

• After you complete any maintenance tasks

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

Help

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

NTER.

First steps

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

• Make sure that the AC power adapter is

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

• Make sure that the power cord is firmly

connected to the AC power adapter.

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

sure that it is turned on.

www.gateway.com

• If the notebook will not turn on, try turning it

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

• If a peripheral device (such as a keyboard or

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

• Make sure that your hard drive is not full.

• If an error message appears on the screen, write

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

• If you added or removed peripheral devices,

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

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

printed documentation or the online help.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order.

Audio

Audio troubleshooting is covered under “Sound” on

page 109.

Battery

Battery troubleshooting is covered under “Power” on

page 107.

CD drives

CD drive troubleshooting is covered under “DVD

drives” on page 88.

CHAPTER 8: Troubleshooting

Diskette drive (external)

The diskette drive is not recognized

• Shut down and restart your notebook.

• Disconnect the USB cable, then reconnect it.

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

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

corner of the diskette down (unprotected).

• The diskette may be full. Delete unnecessary files

on the diskette and try again.

• Not all diskettes are IBM-compatible. Make sure

that the diskette you are using is IBM-compatible.

• Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes

are flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.

You see a “Disk is full” error message

• Delete unnecessary files on the diskette.

• Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes

are flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.

• Run Error checking on the diskette. If errors are

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

User Guide

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

• Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then

press E

NTER.

• Make sure that the diskette you are using is

IBM-compatible.

The diskette drive status indicator is lit continuously

• Remove the diskette from the drive. If the

indicator stays on, try restarting your notebook.

Display

www.gateway.com

The screen is too dark

• Adjust the brightness using the system keys or

Windows Mobility Center. For more information about adjusting the brightness, see “Adjusting

the brightness” on page 34.

The screen resolution is not correct

• Change the screen resolution from the

Settings

the screen resolution, see “Changing the color depth and screen resolution” in your online

Guide

The text on the display is dim or difficult to read

dialog box. For instructions on changing

Display

• Adjust the brightness using the system keys or

Windows Mobility Center. For more information about adjusting the brightness, see “Adjusting

the brightness” on page 34.

• Change the display settings. For instructions on

changing the display settings, see “Changing screen settings” in your online

User Guide

• Move your notebook away from sources of

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

User

The display has pixels that are always dark or too bright

• This condition is normal and inherent in the TFT

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

The display is blank

• Adjust the brightness using the system keys or

Windows Mobility Center. For more information about adjusting the brightness, see “Adjusting

the brightness” on page 34.

• Make sure the notebook is not in Sleep or

• The notebook may be sending its display to an

DVD drives

Your notebook does not recognize a disc

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

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

• Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed

• Some music CDs have copy protection software.

• Your notebook may be experiencing some

• Clean the disc. For more information, see

CHAPTER 8: Troubleshooting

Hibernate mode. Press the power button.

external monitor or projector. Press F several times to toggle through the LCD panel, an external monitor or projector, or both.

Warning

In compliance with FCC regulations, use shielded cables to connect to other computing devices. A dual-link cable is recommended for DVI output.

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

try again.

and cannot be read by the drive.

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

temporary memory problems. Shut down and restart your notebook.

“Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 73.

N + F4

An audio CD does not produce sound

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

again.

• Some music CDs have copy protection software.

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

• Make sure that the volume control on your

notebook is turned up. For more information about using your volume control, see “Adjusting

the volume” on page 35.

• Make sure that the Windows volume control is

turned up. For instructions on how to adjust the volume control in Windows, see “Adjusting the

volume” on page 35.

• Make sure that Mute controls are turned off.

www.gateway.com

• If you are using the built-in speakers, make sure

that nothing is plugged into the headphone jack on the notebook. For the location of the headphone jack, see “Front” on page 6.

• If you are using powered speakers, make sure

that they are plugged in and turned on.

• Clean the disc. For more information, see

“Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 73.

• Your notebook may be experiencing some

temporary memory problems. Shut down and restart your notebook.

• Reinstall the audio device drivers.

A DVD movie will not play

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

is facing up, then try again.

• Shut down and restart your notebook.

• Clean the DVD. For more information, see

“Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 73.

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

DVD drive’s regional code match.

• Make sure that a DVD player program has been

installed on your notebook. For instructions on playing a DVD, see “Playing music and movies” in your online

User Guide

A DVD does not produce sound on a television

Ethernet

Ethernet troubleshooting is covered under “Networks

(wired)” on page 102.

• Audio is transmitted through an HDMI

connection, however, audio is not transmitted through a monitor jack. If you are connecting your notebook to a television using the monitor jack, use the built-in speakers, a set of headphones or external powered speakers, or connect your notebook to a stereo system to hear sound while playing a DVD.

CHAPTER 8: Troubleshooting

File management

A file was accidentally deleted

• Recover the file from the Recycle Bin by

following the instructions in “Deleting files and folders” in your online

Caution

If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key or if the Recycle Bin has been emptied, the file cannot be restored.

Help

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

Hard drive

You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message

• Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive

using Disk Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files, see “Deleting unnecessary files” in your online

• Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the

Recycle Bin icon, then clicking Empty Recycle Bin.

User Guide

NTER.

Caution

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

• Save your files to another drive. If the hard drive

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

Help

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

You see a “Data error” message

NTER.

• This may be the result of a defective area on the

hard drive. To fix hard drive problems, run the Error checking program. For instructions on fixing hard drive problems, see “Checking the hard drive for errors” in your online

User Guide

Internet

www.gateway.com

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

• If a diskette is in the diskette drive, eject it and

restart your notebook.

• Make sure that the hard drive is installed

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

• If your notebook has been subjected to static

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

You cannot connect to the Internet

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

the modem cable is plugged into the optional modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. For the location of your modem jack, see “Back”

on page 9.

-OR-

If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the Ethernet network jack and not the optional modem jack. For the location of your network jack, see “Left” on page 7.

• Make sure that you do not have a problem with

your modem. For more information, see

“Modem (dial-up)” on page 97.

• Make sure that your account with your Internet

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

Help

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

NTER.

CHAPTER 8: Troubleshooting

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

• This problem can occur when you have typed a

URL (Web address) incorrectly, you have lost your Internet connection, or your ISP is having technical difficulties.

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

Connecting to a Web site takes too long Many factors can affect Internet performance:

• The condition of the telephone lines in your

residence or at your local telephone service

• The condition of the Internet computers to which

you connect and the number of users accessing those computers

• The complexity of graphics and multimedia on

Web pages

• Having multiple Web browsers open, performing

multiple downloads, and having multiple programs open on your notebook

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

Keyboard

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

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

• Make sure that your account with your Internet

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

• Make sure that nothing is resting on the

keyboard.

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

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

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

• The numeric keypad is turned on. For more

information about using your keyboard, see

“Using the keyboard” on page 25.

An external keyboard does not work

• Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in

correctly.

• Remove all extension cables and switchboxes.

• Clean the keyboard by using an aerosol can of air

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

• Try a keyboard that you know works to make

sure that the keyboard port works.

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

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

Media Center

www.gateway.com

This section only covers problems relating to Media Center mode. Media Center mode is available only on Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate versions. To view Media Center troubleshooting information that is not covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site at

www.gateway.com

Help

For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the phrase Media Center in the Search Help box, then press E

The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV Many factors, such as the display type, quality of the

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

NTER.

• Display type—Some retail TVs may provide lower

quality video. A progressive scan display device with a HDMI or VGA input is the best choice.

CHAPTER 8: Troubleshooting

• Type of connection used—You can connect the

notebook video output to a TV. However, the connection type has an affect on the video quality. The notebook has two video outputs:

• HDMI—If your TV includes an HDMI port,

connect the HDMI cable from the notebook’s

HDMI Out port to the TV’s HDMI In port.

HDMI display quality is usually superior for TV

images. HDMI also transmits audio to your

television. Many older TVs do not have an

HDMI port.

• VGA—If your TV does not include and HDMI

port, but does include a VGA port, connect

the VGA cable from the notebook’s VGA

(monitor) port to the TV’s VGA In port. Many

older TVs do not have a VGA port. VGA only

transmits video. You should use the built-in

speakers, a set of headphones or external

powered speakers, or connect your notebook

to a stereo system to hear sound.

• Quality of video cables—Poor quality or the

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

Important

Cable connections must be made correctly for optimal video quality. A poor cable connection can lower video quality.

• Screen resolution—By default, the notebook uses

a screen resolution optimized for the LCD screen. Many older TVs cannot display this high of a resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the screen resolution to 800 × 600 or 640 × 480. For more information about changing the screen resolution, see “Changing color depth and screen resolution” in your online

Help

For more information about adjusting display settings, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword changing display settings in the Search Help box, then press

NTER.

User Guide

• Size of display device—Small computer monitors

for standard computer applications are generally not optimized for motion video playback. Although they offer excellent resolutions and

Gateway NV40, NV42, NV48, NV52 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

Contacting Gateway Customer Care

Gateway model and serial number

Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

For more information

Front

Left

Right

Back

Bottom

Keyboard area

Keyboard area for select models

LCD panel

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 to a broadband modem or network

Connecting the optional dial-up modem

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 capacitive touch keys

Using the webcam

Adjusting the brightness

Adjusting the volume

Turning your wireless radio on or off

IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio

Disabling the wireless IEEE 802.11 radio

Bluetooth radio

Disabling the Bluetooth radio

Using Drives and Accessories

Using the DVD drive

Identifying drive types

Using a DVD drive

Using a tray-load DVD drive

Using the memory card reader

Memory card types

Inserting a memory card

Using a memory card

Removing a memory card

Installing a printer or other peripheral device

Connecting a USB device

Viewing the display on a projector, monitor, or television

Adjusting the display properties

Using the projector or monitor for a presentation

Managing Power

Monitoring the battery charge

Recharging the battery

Changing batteries

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

Packing your notebook

Traveling by air

Dial-up modem

Radio frequency wireless connections