Hercules EC-900B-H120GV User Manual
eCAFÉ EC-900CL
eCAFÉ EC-900B
Click on any title in the Contents table below to access the relevant section.
CONTENTS
1. T E eCAFÉ™ – TAKE IT TO GO!.......................................................................................................................................................................................................2 H
1.1 Handling your netbook .................................................................................................................................................................................................................2
1.2 A comprehensive package............................................................................................................................................................................................................2
1.3 A closer look at your eCAFÉ™......................................................................................................................................................................................................3
2. e AFÉTM – UNEQUALLED AND UNRIVALLED.................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 C
2.1 My eCAFÉ™.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................4
2.2 Multifunction keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................................................................6
2.3 A netbook suited to large files.......................................................................................................................................................................................................7
2.4 Extensive connectivity options for countless applications.............................................................................................................................................................. 7
2.5 A desktop device AND a mobile device.........................................................................................................................................................................................9
2.5.1 Operating the eCAFÉ™ when connected to the mains....................................................................................................................................................9
2.5.2 Operating the eCAFÉ™ with the built-in battery............................................................................................................................................................10
2.5.3 Installing and removing the battery................................................................................................................................................................................10
2.5.4 Optimising your use of the battery................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
3. F RST STEPS WITH MY eCAFÉ™.....................................................................................................................................................................................................13 I
3.1 Turning the eCAFÉ™ On/Off ......................................................................................................................................................................................................13
3.2 Connecting an external display...................................................................................................................................................................................................14
3.3 Mastering the touchpad...............................................................................................................................................................................................................15
3.4 Accessing the help interface .......................................................................................................................................................................................................15
3.5 Wel ome to the eCAFÉ™ galaxy!............................................................................................................................................................................................... 16c
3.5.1 All the essentials in just one click..................................................................................................................................................................................16
3.5.2 Extensive contents to take you further...........................................................................................................................................................................21
3.6 Adj ting the main settings .........................................................................................................................................................................................................23 us
3.6.1 Date and time................................................................................................................................................................................................................23
3.6.2 Language......................................................................................................................................................................................................................23
3.6.3 Volume.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
3.6.4 Printers..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................23
3.7 Cus omising your world............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24 t
3.7.1 Defining user profiles.....................................................................................................................................................................................................24
3.7.2 Customising the interface's appearance........................................................................................................................................................................ 24
4. C MMUNICATIONS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 O
4.1 Connecting to the Internet........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.1 ...in WiFi with eCAFÉ™ Connect...................................................................................................................................................................................25
4.1.2 ... via an Ethernet cable.................................................................................................................................................................................................27
4.1.3 Determining the connection status ................................................................................................................................................................................27
4.2 Sending and receiving emails .....................................................................................................................................................................................................28
4.3 Chatting with friends....................................................................................................................................................................................................................33
5. GAMES............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
6. MULTIMEDIA......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................37
6.1 Viewing and organising your photos............................................................................................................................................................................................38
6.2 Viewing videos............................................................................................................................................................................................................................39
6.3 Listening to music .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................40
6.4 Using the webcam.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................42
7. WORK.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................43
7.1 Creating, editing, saving and more.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 43
7.1.1 …A document using OpenOffice.org Writer (Text Editor ).............................................................................................................................................44
7.1.2 ...A spreadhseet using OpenOffice.org Calc (Spreadsheet).........................................................................................................................................45
7.2. Managing your schedule.............................................................................................................................................................................................................52
8. I STALLING APPLICATIONS...........................................................................................................................................................................................................53 N
8.1 Installing applications or updates after automatic detection.........................................................................................................................................................53
8.2 Manually installing applications or updates .................................................................................................................................................................................54
9. S VING AND RESTORING DATA..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 55 A
Creating backups on a USB key..................................................................................................................................................................................................55
9.1
9.2 Creating backups on a memory card...........................................................................................................................................................................................55
9.3 Restoring backup data from a USB key.......................................................................................................................................................................................55
9.4 Restoring backup data from a memory card................................................................................................................................................................................55
10. RESTORING THE SYSTEM ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................56
INDEX ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................57
WARNING....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 58
TECHNICAL SUPPORT..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................59
WARRANTY INFORMATION..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................59
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1. THE eCAFÉ™ – TAKE IT TO GO!
Thank you for trusting Hercules by choosing to purchase the eCAFÉ™ netbook. The eCAFÉ™ has been designed to allow you to
communicate and create or edit documents such as text files, slideshows or even images; it also includes advanced multimedia features
designed to entertain you.
To make the most of your eCAFÉ™ netbook, please follow the instructions provided in this manual.
A number of operations that you can perform on your eCAFÉ™ will require you to provide a password. The default user account
password is "ec-900", and the administration account password is "root".
You can change these passwords in the Security thumbnail of the Computer Configuration application.
1.1 Handling your netbook
Please read this section with care before using the product.
Like any electronic device, the eCAFÉ™ requires you to observe a number of simple safety rules; these are listed below. In addition, observing
some simple precautions will enable you to extend your eCAFÉ™'s life.
- In no circumstance should you attempt to open the eCAFÉ™, its adaptor or its components; doing this would expose the device's internal
components to damage. Likewise, never attempt to open the device's battery.
- Use only the adaptor provided with the product.
- Always place your eCAFÉ™ on a horizontal, stable and flat surface.
- Never exert pressure on the display. Never touch the display with any objects that are liable to damage it or scratch it.
- Always make sure that you have removed any objects placed on the device's keyboard (e.g. USB key, pen or others) before closing your
eCAFÉ™'s display.
- To avoid any risk of fire or electric shock, always keep your eCAFÉ™ away from:
- Rain or moisture, as well as all fluids (water, chemical products and any other liquids),
- Heat sources such as radiators, cookers or other heat-emitting devices (including amplifiers),
- Direct sunlight.
- This product should be used only at temperatures ranging from 5 to 35°C.
- Never cover your eCAFÉ™ while the device is powered on.
- Always unplug your eCAFÉ™ before cleaning it. To clean it, use a soft cloth; avoid using chemical sprays.
- The eCAFÉ™ provides a WiFi wireless connection feature. Use of this feature is liable to cause interferences with the equipment located on
planes or in hospitals. Always deactivate this feature before entering these premises.
- Disconnect eCAFÉ™ from the mains if there is a storm.
- Never throw the device's battery into an open fire.
- When transporting the eCAFÉ™, always turn the device off if you are carrying it in a closed bag. As a general rule, make sure that your
eCAFÉ™ is placed in a well-vented environment when the device is powered on.
1.2 A comprehensive package
Compact design, an ultra-lightweight device, powerful connectivity, various accessories included. Discover the packaging contents:
- eCAFÉ™ personal computer
- Battery
- Power adaptor
- Quickstart guide
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1.3 A closer look at your eCAFÉ™
- 1.6 GHZ VIA C7-m Processor
- 512 MB DDR2 (SO-DIMM) RAM
- 8.9" backlit LCD screen (max. resolution: 1024 x 600 native)
- Built-in 1,300,000-pixel webcam, built-in microphone
- Built-in video card, built-in sound card
- Built-in WiFi 802.11 b/g card
- 1.8" PATA/ZIF hard drive: 160GB (eCAFÉ™ EC-900CL ) or 120 GB (eCAFÉ™ EC-900B)
- Rechargeable 2200 mAh (3-cell) lithium battery
- 100–240 VAC, 50/60 HZ, 19VDC/2.1A ( power adaptor
- 2 USB 2.0 ports (compatible with USB 1.1 devices)
- 1 10/100 MBps Ethernet port
- 1 VGA outlet
- 1 headphone input, 1 microphone input
- 84-key keyboard
- Touchpad with 2 buttons
- Multi-format memory card drive for SD (Secure Digital), SD HC (Secure Digital HC), MMC (MultiMedia Card)
- Weight: less than 1.2 kg with the battery
- Dimensions: 251 mm x 185 mm x 31 mm
The included operating system is specific to your eCAFÉ™. It is based on the latest Linux Mandriva operating system, and includes all the
essential applications you may require to you use your netbook at home or "on the road". It can however be extended via the "Computer
Configuration" application. In no event shall Guillemot Corporation S.A.'s liability be bound in the event of damages of any kind (including, but
not limited to the loss of data) resulting from the installation or use or incorrect use of these applications.
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2. eCAFÉTM – UNEQUALLED AND UNRIVALLED
The eCAFÉ™ netbook features a very wide range of applications and extensive connectivity interfaces, which will enable you to instantly
connect to the world that is best suited to your use: work, communications, games or multimedia.
2.1 My eCAFÉ™
1. Webcam 6. Headphones connector 11. Left touchpad button
2. 8,9" LCD display 7. Microphone connector 12. Capitals lock indicator
3. Loudspeakers 8. Built-in microphone 13. WiFi activity indicator
4. Keyboard 9. Right touchpad button 14. Hard disk drive activity indicator
5. Lecteur de carte SD/SDHC/MMC 10. Touchpad 15. Battery operation indicator
16. eCAFÉ™ on/off indicator
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1. Removable battery 3. Air extraction grate
2. Battery locking tabs 4. RAM DDR access cover
This part of your eCAFÉ™ is liable to heat during operation and charging. This is normal. However, to improve thermal dissipation, we
recommend you do not block the vents. Avoid placing your eCAFÉ™ on a soft surface such as a sofa or a bed, for instance.
1. On/off button
2. Kensington® lock
1. USB 2.0 ports 3. VGA output connector
2. LAN/Ethernet port 4. Power supply port
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2.2 Multifunction keyboard
eCAFÉ™ features a complete keyboard that lets you control the screen and WiFi connection settings.
+
+
+
+
+
+
Activate/Deactivate WiFi
function (default : inactive)
Activate/Deactivate audio
output
Activate/Deactivate
touchpad
Switch from the LCD
display to an external
display
Reduce display brightness
Increase display
brightness
+
+
+
+
+
Lower the volume
Increase the volume
Put the eCAFÉ™ to standby
Lock/Unlock number pad
Lock/Unlock the display
scrolling feature
Switch from a fullscreen display
to a windowed display
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2.3 A netbook suited to large files
Equipped with a hard disk drive and a multiple-format card reader, the eCAFÉ™ enables you to take your most precious files with you,
regardless of their size.
Hard disk drive
The eCAFÉ™ features a 160 GB (eCAFÉ™ EC-900CL) or 120 GB (eCAFÉ™ EC-900B) hard disk drive, user space is approximately 105GB.
This storage capacity allows you to save movies, images and other large files to your device.
Memory card drive
The eCAFÉ™ is equipped with a multiple-format memory card reader supporting SD and SD HC (Secure Digital), MS (Memory Stick®), MMC
(MultiMedia Card) formats; this device enables you to view pictures taken with your digital camera or to extend your system's storage capacity,
for instance.
USB ports
The eCAFÉ™ is also equipped with three USB ports that enable you to connect a USB storage key or other USB devices (for further
information regarding USB ports, please refer to section 2.4, "Extensive connectivity options for countless applications").
2.4 Extensive connectivity options for countless applications
The ports and connectivity interfaces built into your eCAFÉ™ enable you to connect all kind of USB peripherals, such as a mouse or an
external hard disk drive, to your netbook.
General safety rules
Before connecting a peripheral to your netbook, please refer to the installation instructions provided with the device.
Never remove a peripheral while your eCAFÉ™ is reading or saving data; you would risk destroying the data beyond repair.
USB ports (Universal Serial Bus)
The eCAFÉ™ features three USB 2.0 ports (USB 1.1 compatible), to which you can connect many peripherals such as a keyboard, a mouse, a
USB key and more. This interface is hot-swappable, allowing you to connect and remove your peripheral without having to first shut it down.
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If you have connected a USB external hard disk drive to your eCAFÉ™, please click on the icon (located in the lower right section
of the screen) and select "Remove media" prior to disconnecting your peripheral.
The system may fail to recognise some USB peripherals if they have been connected during the computer's start-up phase. Should this
be the case, please remove the device from your netbook and connect it again.
Audio connectors
To initiate a communication or view a video, please connect a microphone, headphones and/or a headset featuring a built-in microphone to the
relevant connector:
- The jack output connector to connect headphones or a headset
- The jack input connector to connect an MP3 player for recording purposes, or a microphone to record vocal data or chat with your contacts
using a voice-over-IP application
Connecting an audio peripheral device automatically cuts off the microphone or integrated speakers on your eCAFÉ™.
Local Area Network (LAN)
The eCAFÉ™ is equipped with a RJ45 LAN connectivity interface, which enables you to connect it to a 10/100 Mbps wired network (corporate
network, router, wired modem & router or Internet box, for instance).
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2.5 A desktop device AND a mobile device
Both a desktop device and a mobile device at once, the eCAFÉ™ can be used everywhere thanks to its dual power supply (mains or battery).
2.5.1 Operating the eCAFÉ™ when connected to the mains
Use the included power adaptor to power your eCAFÉ™. The device complies with the specifications of the electric network in the country in
which the device was purchased.
Please make sure that the power supply plug is fully engaged into the computer’s power supply connector.
When the eCAFÉ™ is connected to the mains, the device’s battery starts to charge automatically. Please note that fully charging the eCAFÉ™
while the device is in use requires more time than when the eCAFÉ™ is turned off.
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2.5.2 Operating the eCAFÉ™ with the built-in battery
The eCAFÉ™ is designed to operate on its built-in battery. When fully charged, the built-in battery guarantees ample autonomy (approximately
1h30*). You can purchase additional batteries from your sales output.
To extend your battery’s lifespan, we recommend that you charge it fully when using your eCAFÉ™ for the first time. Please refer to the
battery charge status indicator for more information regarding the battery charge level.
* Battery life calculated based on a simulation in which the following activities were carried out in succession: word processing, Internet browsing, standby mode approximately 5
minutes per hour of use. Battery life duration may vary and depends on how eCAFÉ™ is used (types of use, network conditions).
2.5.3 Installing and removing the battery
You may need to install or remove the battery, e.g. when replacing the battery.
Before installing or removing the battery, place the locks in the “Unlocked” position; install or remove the battery, then place the locks
in the “Locked” position again.
When installing or removing the battery, eCAFÉ™ must be switched off and disconnected from the mains supply.
Use only Hercules batteries that are fully identical to the original batteries included with your eCAFÉ™. Failure to comply with these
instructions may cause damage to your eCAFÉ™. Similarly, there is a risk of explosion if the battery is replaced by an inappropriate battery.
Please comply with the regulations on proper battery disposal.
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Installing the battery
Removing the battery
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2.5.4 Optimising your use of the battery
This netbook battery pack uses lithium ion (Li-Ion) battery cells and can be charged at any time. If you will not be using the netbook for 30 days,
please remove the battery pack from the netbook. The battery should be at over 70% of its capacity before you remove it. The recommended
storage temperature of a Li-based battery is 5°C~35°C. It should not be stored in a hot car. The Li-Ion battery pack deteriorates whether or not
it is used. Typical life is 2~3 years.
To extend your netbook battery's lifespan:
- Adjust the display's luminosity to a level suited to your environment (indoors/outdoors) and to the application that you are using.
Reduce display
+
+
- Close the display when you are not using your eCAFÉ™ for a short time. The display will automatically turn off.
- When using your eCAFÉ™ for the first time, always charge the battery entirely.
- Deactivate the WiFi function if you are not using WiFi networks.
brightness
Increase display
brightness
+
Deactivate WiFi
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3. FIRST STEPS WITH MY eCAFÉ™
3.1 Turning the eCAFÉ™ On/Off
Turning the device on
- Open the display (1) and press the On/Off button located on the right-hand side of the device (2).
- Open the display (1) and press the On/Off button located on the lefthand side of the device (2).
Do not exert excessive strength on the hinges when opening
the display. Do not hold your eCAFÉ™ by the display when carrying
the device.
When your computer starts up, the Home world is displayed; this page is the starting point of your journey throughout the eCAFÉ™ galaxy. You
will have the opportunity to discover many other worlds, each world being dedicated to a specific use: Work, Communications, Games,
viewing Multimedia contents and configuring or modifying your netbook's Settings.
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Shutting the device down
- Before shutting your eCAFÉ™ down, make sure that all your programs and applications have shut down tidily.
- Shut your eCAFÉ™ down by clicking on the
Standby mode
icon in the lower left-hand section of the screen, then select Shut computer down.
After an extended period of inactivity, your eCAFÉ™ switches to Standby mode. In this mode, the screen and the hard disk switch off to save
energy. Press the On/Off button on the left-hand side of the computer to reactivate it.
Forcing the computer to shut down or restart
If you have trouble starting your computer up, press the device's On/Off button and hold it down until your eCAFÉ™ shuts down.
If an unexpected configuration prevents your eCAFÉ™ from reverting to its initial state when you press the key, press keys +
+ simultaneously. The system will then proceed to restart the various worlds; this quick restart lasts only a few seconds.
Do not use the forced shutdown or restart procedures when files are open. Irreparable loss of data may occur in this case.
3.2 Connecting an external display
When you are at home or working at the office, you can connect your netbook to a larger screen, e.g. to surf the Internet or work on large
spreadsheets. To do so, simply connect your eCAFÉ™ to a VGA screen using the device's VGA connector. For more information regarding
display settings, please refer to the Personalisation Wizard in section 3.7.2 "Extensive contents to take you further").
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3.3 Mastering the touchpad
Some actions are confirmed by a single click (activating a button or accessing a menu, for instance):
Either by pressing the left touchpad button once
Either by briefly tapping the touchpad
Other actions are confirmed by means of a double-click (opening audio or video contents or a document, for instance):
Either by pressing the left touchpad button twice
Either by briefly tapping the touchpad twice
The right touchpad button is generally used to access the selected object's properties.
3.4 Accessing the help interface
This guide is available in the "User's Manual" PDF file located on your eCAFÉ™'s hard disk drive (in the folder named "MyFiles", which
contains your personal files) or on the website http://ts.hercules.com..
Specific help is also available within each installed application. Please refer to the relevant help section if necessary.
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3.5 Welcome to the eCAFÉ™ galaxy!
3.5.1 All the essentials in just one click
When your computer starts up, the Home world is displayed; this page is the starting point of your journey throughout the eCAFÉ™ galaxy. You
will have the opportunity to discover many other worlds, each world being dedicated to a specific use: Work, Communications, Games,
viewing Multimedia contents and configuring or modifying your netbook’s Settings.
The
solutions range, discover new applications, obtain hints and tricks, learn whether your netbook is compatible with your equipment or simply
discover new uses for your system.
On the left-hand side of the screen, an icon bar enables users to quickly access the various applications and worlds.
All applications can be accessed by clicking on the
You can access the eCAFÉ™’s graphic preferences by clicking on the
icon opens the eCAFÉ™ portal, which allows you to access your online world, view detailed information about the eCAFÉ™
icon.
icon.
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- The Home world
Switch to the Home world key
Access all applications directly
Access the Personalisation
Wizard to customise your
netbook’s settings
Open the File Browser
Open the eCAFÉ™ portal
Access the Home world
Access the Communications
world
Access the Games world
Access the Multimedia world
Access the Work world
Access the Settings world
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- The Communications world
- The Games world
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