PACKARD BELL BG35 User Manual

Quick Start & Troubleshooting

Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Product Registration 2

Important Information 3

Computer Basics 4

Safety and Comfort ..................................................... 4

Safety Precautions ............................................... 4

Health Precautions............................................... 5

Getting to Know your Computer.................................. 6

Control Devices (Keyboard/Touchpad) ................. 6

Touchscreen (optional) ........................................ 7

Volume Controls .................................................. 8

Remote Control (optional) ................................... 9

Your Computer’s Drives........................................ 9

Power Supply..................................................... 11

Ports and Connectors ......................................... 12

Turning your Computer ON or OFF...................... 14

Upgrading your Computer ................................. 15

Internet and Software 17

Using Windows and your Software ........................... 17

Welcome Center................................................. 17

Internet Security Offer........................................ 17

Packard Bell Recovery Management .................. 18

Packard Bell Updater.......................................... 19

Your Computer's Documentation ....................... 20

Playing Multimedia Files.................................... 20

Social Networks (optional)................................. 22

First steps on the Net ................................................ 22

Protecting your computer .................................. 22

Choose an ‘Internet Service Provider’................. 22

Network connections ......................................... 23

Surf the Net! ...................................................... 25

Helpdesk 27

Safe Computing ........................................................ 27

Maintenance...................................................... 27

Updates ............................................................. 30

Security.............................................................. 30

Windows Remote Assistance ............................. 35

Diagnose & Repair..................................................... 36

Top Troubleshooting Cases ................................ 36

Miscellaneous Troubleshooting ......................... 41

Recovering your system ............................................ 47

To recover your system ...................................... 47

Recovering pre-installed software and drivers... 47

Returning to a previous system condition.......... 48

Returning your system to its factory condition .. 49

Regulatory Information 50

Environment 52

Software License 53

Index 54

Copyright ©2010. All Rights Reserved. PBNB

Table of Contents - 1

PRODUCT REGISTRATION

When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that you immediately register it. This will give you access to
some useful benefits, such as:

• Faster service from our trained representatives

• Membership in the Packard Bell community: receive promotions and participate in customer surveys

• The latest news from Packard Bell
Hurry and register, as other advantages await you!

How to Register

During the initial startup of your computer, a window will invite you to register. Please fill in the information and click Next.
The second window you'll see contains optional fields that will help us to provide you with a more personable customer
service experience.

Another Option

Another way to register your Packard Bell product is to visit our website at register.packardbell.com. Choose your country
and follow the simple instructions.

After we receive your product registration, you will be sent a confirmation email with important data that you should keep in
a safe place.

2 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Thank you for purchasing a Packard Bell computer!
This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your computer and assist in your computing experience. It

will also help you maintain your computer and troubleshoot in case you encounter a problem.
To make the most of your computer, Packard Bell recommends you perform the actions described below before you start

working with your computer.

Packard Bell Recovery Management

If you should ever encounter a problem with your computer and the troubleshooting steps included in the Quick Start &
Troubleshooting Guide did not help fix it, you can run the Packard Bell Recovery Management program. This will restore your

computer to the same state as when you purchased it, while giving you an option to retain all settings and personal data for
later retrieval (see page 47 for details).

Packard Bell Updater

To ensure that your computer has the latest updates for drivers and software, please use the Packard Bell Updat er program as
soon as you have configured an Internet connection (see page 19 for details).

Packard Bell InfoCentre

To discover more about your computer, please make sure you check Packard Bell InfoCentre, the electronic user‘s
guide installed on your computer. You need to update the guide at least once online (see page 20 for details).

Packard Bell Website

Remember to visit www.packardbell.com often! Check out the Support section; it contains up-to-date information, help,
drivers and downloads. Visit store.packardbell.com to discover our accessories, then buy online or locate a store near you!

Packard Bell Support

Make sure you write down your computer serial number, date and place of purchase and model name
on the cover of this guide. Also, save your proof of purchase. If you call us, please write down any error
message causing the problem, and have the computer in front of you and switched on if possible.
Having these items to hand when contacting us will ensure better and quicker service.

Warranty and Contact Information

You can find information about the warranty for your computer and how to contact technical support in your computer’s
Warranty Guide.

Important Information - 3

COMPUTER BASICS

SAFETY AND COMFORT

Safety Precautions

Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably and to avoid health problems.

Computer Environment

Make sure that the computer:

• Is used on a stable surface, stand or table. A fall can seriously damage the computer.

• Is not used on a surface that vibrates, or used when taking part in sport, exercise or other activities in a dynamic
environment. Vibration or movement can loosen fastenings, damage internal components and even cause battery
leakage.

• Is away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

• Is away from magnetic fields or any device generating static electricity.

• Is kept at least 30 centimetres (one foot) away from a mobile phone.

• Is not in a dusty or damp environment.

• Is not used near water. Never spill liquids of any kind on or into your computer.

• Is not placed on a carpet or any other surface that may have an electrical charge.

Cables

Make sure that:

• Cables are not strained and that there is no risk of people walking or tripping over them.

• Other devices do not crush the cables.

• The power cable is connected to the computer before connecting the power cable to the AC power outlet.

• The power cable is unplugged from the power outlet before disconnecting the power cable from the computer.

• Three-pin power cords are connected to a grounded power outlet.

• The power outlet is easily accessible and as close to the computer as possible (do not overload it with too many adapters).

If your computer uses an external AC adapter:

• Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter. Allow the adapter to cool properly during use by keeping it clear of objects.

• Only use the AC adapter that is supplied with your computer. Although other adapters may look similar, using them can
damage your computer. If a replacement is required, use only parts certified for use with your computer.

Cleaning your Computer

• Always unplug your computer from the power outlet before cleaning it.

• Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, use a damp cloth instead.

• Never spray cleaning product directly on the screen.

• If you spill liquid on your computer, switch it off immediately, unplug the AC adapter, remove the battery and make sure it
is completely dry before switching it on again. Wait overnight if necessary.

Note: If your computer includes slots for memory cards or expansion devices, plastic ’dummies’ may be installed in the card
slots. Dummies protect unused slots from dust, metal objects or other particles. Save the dummies for use when no cards
are in the slots.

4 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

Servicing your Computer

Do not attempt to service your computer yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or
other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Unplug your computer from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel when:

• the power cord or plug is damaged, cut or frayed,

• liquid was spilled into the product,

• the product was exposed to rain or water,

• the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged

• the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service

• the product does not operate normally after following the operating instructions

Note: Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, since improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to
normal condition.

Health Precautions

• The computer and accessories may contain small parts. Keep them out of the reach of small children.

• If you wor k or play for hou rs at a time, then make sure you ta ke regular breaks. Look away from the com puter's screen once
in a while. Do not use your computer if you are tired.

• Arrange your computer so that you can work in a natural and relaxed position. Place items that you use frequently within
easy reach.

• Position your computer directly in front of you for increased safety and comfort. Ensure that your keyboard and touchpad
are at a comfortable height. The screen should be about 45-70 cm (18-30 inches) from your eyes.
If you use your computer for long periods while sitting at a desk, invest in an external keyboard for improved comfort.

• To protect your hearing, when using speakers or headphones, increase volume gradually until you can hear clearly and
comfortably; do not increase the volume level after your ears have adjusted. Do not listen to high volumes for extended
periods. Do not increase the volume to block out noisy surroundings; decrease the volume if you cannot hear people
speaking near you.

• The computer’s underside, power adapter and the air from ventilation slots may become hot during use. Avoid
continuous body contact and do not place the computer on your lap while it is operating.

• Ensure that the computer’s ventilation slots and openings are never obstructed or covered. Do not place the
computer on a soft surface (such as a carpet, chair or bed) that may block ventilation slots.

• Do not push objects of any kind into ventilation or case slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out
parts that may result in a fire or electric shock.

• Some disorders of the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, legs and back may be associated with, or aggravated by certain
repetitive actions. To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, type with your wrists straight and your hands and
wrists floating above the keyboard. If you experience periods of pain, tingling, numbness or other discomfort, please
contact your doctor.

• We advise that parents monitor the use of games by their children. If you or your child experience any of the following
symptoms: dizziness, blurred vision, eye or muscle twitches, loss of consciousness, disorientation, any involuntary
movement or convulsion, IMMEDIATELY discontinue use and consult your doctor. This may happen even if the person has
no medical history of epilepsy.

Computer Basics - 5

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR COMPUTER

Control Devices (Keyboard/Touchpad)

Keyboard

The keyboard is used to enter text or commands. The functions of the keys depend on the program you are using. The
keyboard displayed in this guide is just an example. The layout of your keyboard may vary slightly. For a full description of
your keyboard, please refer to InfoCentre.

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1. Numbers: Used to enter numbers and special characters. Press Shift simultaneously for characters on the top and press
Ctrl+Alt for characters on the right.

2. Backspace: Used to go back one space and delete the last key pressed.

3. Del: Deletes any selected items or the character to the right of the cursor when editing text.

4. Optional Numeric keypad: Functions as a second set of number or cursor keys. Press the Numlock key to switch between
the two functions.

Note: To optimise space and weight, certain computers use compact keyboards that do not provide
a numeric keypad. If this is the case, you may use the integrated keypad by activating Num Lock
and using the keys with extra number characters (the keys in the centre-right of the keyboard).
Press Num Lock again to return the keys to their normal functions.

5. Arrow keys: Move the cursor up, down, left and right.

6. Enter: Press to enter a command, insert a paragraph break in a text or accept a chosen option.

7. Space: used to enter an empty space in your text.

8. Shift: Use simultaneously with a letter key to enter capital letters.

9. Esc: Cancels most current tasks.

10. Fn: Use simultaneously with certain keys (such as F1 to F12) to activate optional special functions (shown with symbols).

Note: Certain keyboards feature a Social Networks key that opens the Social Networks application (please see
Social Networks (optional) on page 22). If this application is not installed, the key will start your instant
messenging application.

Tou c hp ad

The touchpad controls the arrow on the screen; called the pointer or the cursor. When you slide your finger across the
touch-sensitive pad, the pointer will follow this movement.

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6 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

Click one of the touchpad buttons to select or activate the command
the cursor is pointing at. Ensure that you use a light touch on the
touchpad surface.

1. Left-click to select the item under the pointer.
Double-click to start the program under the cursor, or select an
entire word when typing text.

2. Right-click to bring up a pop-up menu.

3. Two quick taps on the surface of a touchpad will perform the same
action as a double-click.

Optional Touchpad features

If your computer supports Multi-gesture, the touchpad can recognise certain movement patterns
across its surface. This allows you to control applications with a few simple gestures. Please see
Packard Bell InfoCent re for more information.

Your computer may feature a Touchpad Lock button. The Touchpad Lock button toggles the touchpad on or off to
avoid unwanted cursor movements when using the keyboard. This is most useful if you have connected a mouse
to your computer.

On certain computers you may slide your finger up and down the right-side of the touchpad to scroll through a document.

Note: Improve the motion and visibility of the pointer! Click on Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound >
Mouse > Pointer Options.

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Touchscreen (optional)

Certain computers include a touchscreen that allows simple commands to be given by touching the screen,
instead of cluttering your desk with a keyboard or mouse. Depending on the type and format of
touchscreen you may either use a finger or stylus (or both) to select items on the screen.

’Tapping’ the screen

Instead of clicking with a mouse, or pressing a key, you should lightly tap the screen with a finger, or a stylus if one has been
provided. The screen should react instantly to the contact.

Caution: Only use a finger or the stylus provided. Using other items may damage the screen.

To ’right-click’ on a touchscreen, tap and hold on the screen until an animated ring appears and then lift your finger (or the
stylus). To drag content, simply touch the screen over the content, then slide you finger across the screen. The content will
follow your movements.

Multi-gesture

If your computer supports Multi-gesture, the screen can recognise certain movement patterns across its surface. This allows
you to control applications with a few simple gestures; for example, flipping though a slideshow, pinching in or out to zoom
or making a circular swirl to scroll through a document.

Different types and formats of touchscreen may support different gestures; please see Packard Bell InfoCentre for more
information.

Tou ch Appli cat ions

Your computer may have some touch-specific programs installed, these provide simplified interfaces with larger buttons and
controls that are adapted to touching and sliding items across the screen. Please see the help provided with these programs
for more information.

Computer Basics - 7

Virtual keyboard

A virtual keyboard is available for text input while using a touchscreen. To open the virtual keyboard, tap the screen and then
tap the Input Panel tab that appears on the left edge of the screen. When you open the virtual keyboard, it will appear on top
of any open windows. You may move it to a convenient position on the screen.

You can customize the virtual keyboard settings by selecting Start > Control Panel > Tablet PC Settings and in
the Other tab select Go to Input Panel Settings.

Calibrating your screen

You may find that you need to recalibrate the screen if it does not react properly to a tap.
To do this select Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Tablet PC

Settings. On the Display tab, select Calibrate.... Follow the instructions to calibrate

the screen.

Other options

Additional configuration options are available in Start > Control Panel under Tablet
PC settings and Pen and Touch.

Note: Certain touchscreens have a thin layer of air between layers of glass and
resistive touch film. Occasionally, a seri es of concentric shapes, called Newton's Rings,
may appear due to the reflection of light between two surfaces with different
temperatures and pressures. This is normal and the rings will disappear after a few
minutes of use.

Cleaning the touchscreen

Touchscreens are delicate and no cleaning products should be used when cleaning the surface. Please follow the advice given
in Cleaning your Computer on page 4.

Volume Controls

Apart from the volume controls on your computer, keyboard, or speakers (depending on your equipment), you can also adjust
the volume and balance of your speakers from Windows.

Adjusting the Volume

To adjust the volume, simply click on the Speaker icon located in the Notification Area, next to the clock.

Drag the slider up or down to adjust the volume.

Click on the small speaker icon to mute the volume. Click again to resume playback.

Click on Mixer to access advanced volume control settings.

8 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

Remote Control (optional)

Enjoy all your favourite digital entertainment in one place with the easy-to-use Media Center (see page 21) and remote
control!

Installing the Remote Control and optional receiver

Before starting Windows Media Center (see page 20), prepare the
remote control.

1. If your computer does not feature an internal infrared receiver, a
USB receiver is required. If supplied, connect the USB receiver to
a USB port on the computer.

2. Insert the batteries into the remote control; check the batteries
are orientated correctly.

Remote Control Functions

1. Playback and record controls (Record, Play, Stop, Rewind, Fast
forward, Skip back, Pause, Skip forward).

2. Power ON/OFF or Quick Resume

3. Back

4. More information

5. Direction keys (up, down, left, right) and OK

6. Start (Windows key)

7. Volume controls (Volume up/down)

8. Mute

9. Open Record TV

10. Open Guide

11. Program/Channel up/down

12. DVD Menu

13. Open Live TV

14. Number keys, Clear and Enter

15. Teletext selection (red, green, yellow, blue)*

16. Teletext (switch to Teletext while in TV mode)*

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* optional - not available in all regions

Your Computer’s Drives

The drives described below are commonly used on Packard Bell computers. However, this does not mean that they are
present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these drives. To view documentation specific to the
model you have purchased, please check Pa ckard Bell I nfoCent re.

Memory Card Reader

Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile
phones. Selected computers include an “all-in-one” memory card reader that allows you to read
and write the most common types, such as MMC (Multi Media Card™), SD/SDHC Card, xD-Picture
Card™ or MS (Memory Stick®).

Computer Basics - 9

Removing a card from an External Card Reader

1. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Notification
Area (next to the clock).

2. Click on Eject SD Card (or the name of the device).

3. Wait until a Safe to Remove H ardware message is displayed.

4. Remove the card.

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Optical Drives

An optical drive is able to read from (or write to) a variety of CD or DVD discs (e.g. Audio CD, CD-ROM, DVD).

Note: Small computers may omit larger devices such as optical drives. If your computer does not
feature an optical drive and you wish to access files or install a program from an optical disc, you will
need additional equipment; you may use either an external optical dr ive, or a computer with an optical
drive and a network connection (i.e. add the optical drive as a resource that may be used over a
network).

Read-only (ROM) drives

Some optical drives are only able to read information from a disc, they cannot be used to store new information. These drives
can be used to watch films, install programs and read data such as photos or music.

Recordable (R) or Re-Writable (RW) Drives

In addition to reading data from compatible discs, the optical drive(s) provided with your computer may be able to write (or
'burn') information to appropriate discs. You can use these drives to duplicate your CDs, create your own music compilations,
digital photo albums or keep a safe copy of your valuable data. Disc recording software must be used to write information to
recordable discs.

Note: Before copying a CD, make sure that its content is not protected by Trademarks and Copyrights, and that you are
authorised to replicate it. In most countries you are allowed to make an archival backup of software or copy music for your
own personal use.

Disc Compatibility for Recordable Drives

•DVD±RW Writer

: DVD±RW drives (or DVD Dual drives) c an write to record able CDs, recordable DVDs ('-

' or '+').

• Double-Layer DVD-RW Writer:

Double-Layer DVD-RW drives (or DVD+R9 DL drives) can write to

recordable CDs and single- or double-layer recordable DVDs.

• Blu-ray Combo Drive

: Blu-ray Combo drives can write to recordable CDs, all 'standard' recordable DVDs

(but not 'HD' DVDs) and may read from (but not write to) Blu-ray discs.

• Blu-ray Writer

: Blu-ray drives can write to recordable CDs, all 'standard' recordable DVDs and recordable Blu-ray discs.

Precautions

✓ If a program needs a disc, insert the disc into the drive before you start the program.
✓ Do not force a disc into the drive; make sure the disc is correctly inserted, then close the disc tray.
✓ Do not eject the disc without first closing the program that is using the disc. This could potentially cause your computer to

stop responding. Should this happen, restart your computer by using the Windows Task Manager.

✓ If the tray does not eject, you may try to open it manually:

10 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

1. Switch your computer off.

2. Carefully insert a straightened paper clip into the emergency eject port (if available). Do not use a pencil as the lead
may break inside the eject port and damage the drive.

✓ Keep the disc tray closed whenever you are not using the drive. Do not touch the optical lens in the drive, if the lens is

dirty, the optical drive may not function correctly.

✓ Do not wipe the lens with a normal cloth. Use a cotton swab to gently clean the lens.
✓ The optical drive is classified as a Class 1 laser product.

Note: This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual
property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home
and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is
prohibited.

Power Supply

Your computer requires a constant, stable power source to keep running. If you are at home then the AC adapter can be
connected to a mains socket and used for as long as necessary. On the road, or if you simply want to avoid trailing wires, your
computer's battery can power the computer.

AC Power Adapter

Your computer can use the supplied external power adapter (a power 'brick') to run on AC
power. A power cable is provided that is appropriate for the country where the computer
was purchased.

The power adapter provides adequate power to run your computer and recharge the
battery pack at the same time.

Warning: Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter. Keeping the
adapter clear of objects allows the adapter to cool properly during use.
Only use the AC adapter that is supplied with your computer. Although other adapters may look similar,
using them can damage your computer.
The AC adapter and the underside of the computer can become hot after prolonged use. This is normal,
but may cause injury with prolonged contact.

Batteries

While you are away from an AC power supply, your computer uses a rechargeable battery. This battery can be removed,
which allows you to carry multiple batteries for long journeys, or to replace an aged battery that has lost performance.

Note: Although the battery is charged at the factory, transit and shelf time may reduce the initial battery charge. The first
time you use your computer, connect the AC power adapter and charge the battery completely.

Check InfoCentre to learn more about your computer’s battery.

Battery Life

Battery life depends on how the computer is used, the battery's capacity and the computer's design. Batteries will start to
perform less effectively with age.

Extending Battery Life

While on the road, it is important to be aware of the simple things you can do to extend the life of the computer's main
battery. Turning down the screen brightness extends battery life (most computers reduce screen brightness automatically
when using battery power). Battery life is best under the following conditions:

✓ The battery is new and fully charged.

Computer Basics - 11

✓ No peripherals (such as ExpressCards) or options (such as Wireless LAN features) are active or connected to your computer.
✓ The computer's hard disk drive, optical drive and processor are idling or under low load.

Power management features are active. You may change the power settings of your computer by clicking on Start >
Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options.

✓ Certain battery types require maintenance to avoid a reduction in battery life.
✓ Do not leave your battery in direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can affect the performance of your battery. It’s best to

use and charge your battery at room temperatures.

Replacing Batteries

Battery packs can be removed and replaced. Read the precautions on handling the battery before changing the battery.
A small lithium battery (‘CMOS’ battery) in some computers maintains basic configuration information (such as the time and

date). In the event that the battery fails to maintain this information, we recommend that you contact a qualified technician
who may replace this battery.

Battery Precautions and Disposal

✓ Batteries contain a mix of chemicals that should be treated with care. Before disposing of the battery, put adhesive tape

over the terminals. Do not disassemble the battery.

✓ Do not place used batteries in your regular waste. Ultimate disposal of the batteries should be handled according to all

national laws and regulations. Contact your local waste management officials for information regarding environmentally
sound collection, recycling and disposal of batteries.

✓ There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type

recommended by the manufacturer.

Ports and Connectors

The ports and connector types described below are commonly used on Packard Bell computers. However, this does not mean
that they are present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these ports. To view documentation
specific to the model you have purchased, please check InfoCentre.

Precautions

✓ Before you attach any device, check the installation instructions that were supplied with it.
✓ Do not remove a device if the computer is using it.
✓ Most devices may be added or removed while the computer is on. They will be detected and installed automatically.

However, certain devices must be deactivated before they can be removed from the computer (for example, see Removing
a card from an External Card Reader on page 10).

Communication Ports

Network - Connect your computer to a network (‘LAN’) or certain high-speed Internet connections.

Modem - An internal fax/data modem connects you to the Internet over a dial-up connection.

A network port looks very similar to a modem port; they are often found near each other. The network port is slightly
larger than the modem port.

Warning: In thunderstorm conditions, make sure that you disconnect all your connection cables; unplug
the modem from the telephone line, the TV port from the aerial socket and any network cable. A
lightning strike to nearby telephone lines or an aerial could damage your modem, network or TV card or
even your whole computer. Please note that the product warranty does not apply if damage to your
computer is the result of a lightning strike.

12 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

Expansion Ports

USB (Universal Serial Bus) - USB ports allow you to connect many peripheral devices to your computer (for example:
keyboard, printer, scanner).

IEEE 1394 (FireWire) - An IEEE 1394 port (aka FireWire™ or i.LINK) allows you to connect high-speed digital devices
to your computer, such as digital video cameras, external hard disk drives, or scanners.

ExpressCard - This slot allows you to use an ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 expansion card.

Note: It is not possible to use a PC Card device in an ExpressCard slot.

eSATA - An eSATA port allows you to connect a compatible external storage device (usually a hard disk drive) with a
high-speed SATA connection.

Display and Audio Ports

VGA Port - Connect to a monitor with a VGA port. The appropriate cable is usually included with the monitor.
DVI Port - Connect to a monitor with a DVI (Digital Video Interface) port. The appropriate cable is usually included

with the monitor.

Note: Many monitors use a 15-pin analogue connection, so you may need to purchase an adapter or a DVI-to-Analogue
cable.

S-Video (TV-Out) Connection - An S-Video TV-Out port allows you to connect a compatible television.
HDMI (TV-Out) Connection - An HDMI TV-Out port allows you to connect a compatible display device (such as a

high-definition television) with a single, easy-to-use connector.

Caution: If you want to use your television's speakers, you must change the audio output or connect the
Line-Out port of your computer to your television (or a speaker system).

Line-Out - Lets you plug in stereo headphones or powered speakers. Plugging in an audio device disables any
built-in speakers.

Microphone - Allows you to connect an external microphone for mono recording or amplification through the
unit. Plugging in an external microphone disables the built-in microphone.

Other Connectors

Memory Card Reader - Memory cards are used to store and transfer data by a wide selection of digital cameras,
PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones (see page 9).

TV Tuner - Allows you to connect an aerial and watch analogue or digital television on your computer (see page 20).
An adapter may be required to connect to an aerial - if your computer features two TV tuner ports, use a splitter
cable to connect both ports to an aerial.

Note: The TV tuner must be compatible with signals in your area.

AC Adapter (DC In) - Lets you attach the computer to the the supplied AC adapter. The computer requires a Packard
Bell-certified adapter.

Other Features

Remote Control Receiver - The remote control receiver (Commercial IR) allows you to control the media functions of
your computer from a distance when used with a compatible remote control (optional).

Caution: The sensor is not an 'full' IR port and can only receive signals from a remote control. It cannot be
used to communicate with other devices, such as mobile telephones.

Kensington Lock Fixture - This fixture allows you to attach a Kensington security lock or other compatible lock to
protect your computer from theft.

Computer Basics - 13

Turning your Computer ON or OFF

Turning your Computer ON

1. First, switch ON any devices connected to your computer by pressing the main power button on these devices.

2. Then switch ON your computer by pressing the main power button.
To share the family computer and have your own system settings every time you turn on the computer, you

can set up accounts for each user. You can access and modify your accounts at any time by clicking on Start

> Control Panel > User Accounts and Family Safety. To learn more about user account

management, please see the section User Account Control on page 34.

Turning your Computer OFF

Make sure all applications are closed before you turn off your computer. Turning off your computer will ensure that a data is
saved and it will use as little power as possible (there may be a small power drain to charge batteries), however your
computer will take longer to start.

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Once the computer has shut down, switch OFF all external devices (such as a printer or monitor) if they have a power button.

Sleep mode

Click on the Sleep button to save your session and put the computer in a low-power state so that you may quickly resume
working (see the Power Options section on page 15 for details).

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Note: You may also put your computer into sleep mode without going to the Windows Start menu. Simply close all your
applications and press the power button.

14 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

Forced Shutdown

If your computer doesn’t respond, then try using the Task Manager. This utility
provides information about your system’s performance and displays details
about programs and processes running on your computer.

To do so, press the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys simultaneously and select Start Task
Manager.

Click on the Applications tab, select the task that you want to end and click on
End Task.

Warning: If your computer still does not respond, press the
computer power button to turn your computer off. Keep this
button pressed until all of the LEDs turn off and wait for roughly
30 seconds before turning the computer on again.

Power Options

The power options of Windows can control your computer’s power state and allow you to save energy. Depending
on your needs, you can define the power scheme that suits you best. Three power saving modes are provided:
Sleep, Hibernate and Hybrid sleep.

Sleep

Sleep effectively ’pauses’ your computer, keeping all activity in memory, ready to start again. Rousing your computer from
Sleep takes just a few seconds. A small amount of power is still required to store the contents of the memory.

Hibernate

Hibernate stores all activity on your computer’s hard drive, and then powers down. No power is required, but your computer
must be powered on normally before you may continue working.

Hybrid Sleep

Hybrid sleep stores all activity on your computer’s hard drive, just like Hibernate; but also keeps a copy in memory, ready to
start in a few seconds. A small amount of power is still required to store the contents of the memory, but the copy on the disk
drive ensures that you work is safe, even in the event of a power failure. Hybrid Sleep may be disabled on certain computers.

Note: To learn more about personalising your computer, click on Star t > Help and Support.

Upgrading your Computer

Packard Bell strives to make your computing experience as easy and pleasant as possible. Because your computing needs may
evolve, Packard Bell is here to help you choose the right accessories and make the most of your computer.

Visit store.packardbell.com to discover our accessories, then buy online or locate a store near you!

Memory

Memory (RAM) is a key component of your computer. If you run memory-intensive applications such as image or digital­video editing or 3D games, adding some memory will increase the computer performance and help your computer run faster.

To help you find out the memory module that is best suited to your Packard Bell computer, you can use our online
configurator on www.packardbell.com! The step-by-step configurator is your best pick to find the right module quickly and
easily with no risk of error, at a competitive price.

Storage (e.g. External Hard Disk Drive)

Whether you need additional storage space, need to create backups or need removable storage to carry your data, an external
hard disk drive will be a convenient solution to expand your computer. Simply plug it into a USB port and "drag and drop" to

Computer Basics - 15

transfer your valuable data in a few seconds. To make temporary backups, this is a lot quicker than burning a CD or DVD! High
capacity drives are also ideal for storing your favourite music, photos and videos and take them with you everywhere you go!

War rant y

Packard Bell computers come with a limited warranty. For further peace of mind, optional PB Care packs let you extend the
standard warranty up to three years (one year + two additional years) and upgrade to on-site service for your computer. For
information, please visit www.packardbell.com.

If your warranty has expired, or if PB Care packs are not available in your area, don't worry, Packard Bell has the answer.
Packard Bell has appointed Authorised Service Centers to provide you with high quality service! You will benefit from the
service of experienced technicians, trained on your Packard Bell product.

Recycling

You just bought a new computer and wonder what you can do with your old equipment? Don't just throw it out! Packard Bell
encourages you to recycle!

Most computer equipment contains hazardous materials, which are best kept out of landfills. Through recycling, many
materials used in computers can be recovered and used again. Many charitable organizations collect computer equipment,
other companies can repair and sell used computers.

Please refer to Environment on page 52 to learn more about product disposal.

16 - Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide

INTERNET AND SOFTWARE

USING WINDOWS AND YOUR SOFTWARE

Packard Bell computers include software to help you use your computer; the programs and categories available on your
computer depend on the model purchased. Most of this software is ’pre-installed’ and ready to be used; however some
software may be provided on a CD or DVD and must first be installed if you wish to use it. To do so, insert the installation CD or
DVD. An installation wizard will start automatically and all you have to do is follow the instructions on the screen.

Welcome Center

The first time you turn on your computer, the Welcome Center window opens. The Welcome Center introduces you to the new
features and tools of Windows. You can access the Welcome Center later by clicking on Start > Getting Started.

Internet Security Offer

It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the Internet (see Security on page 30). An comprehensive
Internet security program is proposed when you first start your computer. You should activate this protection as soon as
possible, certainly before you connect to the Internet.

The offer allows you to use the software and download updates for a period before you must subscribe to continue protecting
your computer against new threats.

Internet and Software - 17