Packard bell desktop series User Manual

User’s Guide

Packard Bell desktop series

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Starting your computer 4

Registration....................................................... 4

Software installation ........................................ 5

Recovery ............................................................ 5

Having trouble? ................................................ 5

Computer Basics 7

Safety and comfort ........................................... 7

Safety precautions ..................................... 7

Health precautions .................................. 10

Setting up your computer 12

Arranging a comfortable work area ............. 12

Adjusting your chair ................................ 12

Positioning your PC ................................. 13

Positioning your monitor ........................ 14

Positioning your keyboard ...................... 14

Positioning your mouse........................... 14

Using your computer 16

Connecting the computer .............................. 16

Connect your mouse and keyboard ....... 16

Connect a monitor................................... 16

Connect to a broadband network.......... 17

Connect to power.................................... 17

Turning on your computer ............................. 17

Turning off your computer ............................ 18

Using the optical drive ................................... 18

To insert a disc into your computer's

optical drive: ............................................ 19

Taking care of your optical discs ........... 19

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Upgrading your computer 20

Expanding through options .......................... 20

Connectivity options ............................... 20

Software 25

Using Windows and your software ............... 25

Welcome Center ..................................... 25

Internet security offer ............................ 26

Productivity software ............................. 26

Packard Bell Recovery Management ..... 26

Playing multimedia files ......................... 27

Playing DVD movies................................ 30

Internet 32

First steps on the net...................................... 32

Protecting your computer ...................... 32

Choose an Internet Service Provider...... 32

Network connections.............................. 34

Surf the Net! ........................................... 37

Security .................................................... 40

Helpdesk 54

Safe computing .............................................. 54

Maintenance ........................................... 54

Updates ................................................... 62

Windows Remote Assistance.................. 63

Frequently asked questions 65

Recovery 68

Packard Bell Recovery Management............. 68

Creating recovery discs ........................... 69

Recovering your system ................................. 72

Types of recovery .................................... 73

Regulatory information 79

Visit registration.packardbell.com and discover the benefits of being a customer of
Packard Bell.

Remark: All images are for reference purposes only. Actual configuration may vary.

Copyright © 2010.
All Rights Reserved.

Packard Bell desktop series user’s
guide
Original Issue: 27 December 2010

Environment 84

Software license 86

Index 89

Table of Contents -

3

STARTING YOUR COMPUTER

Thank you for purchasing this Packard Bell computer!
This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your

computer and assist in your computing experience.
After setting up and starting your computer, as shown in the setup

instructions, it will ask you questions that will help you connect to the
Internet. Your computer will then configure installed software.

REGISTRATION

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

• Faster service from our trained representatives.

• Membership in the Packard Bell community: receive promotions and

participate in customer surveys.

• The latest news from Packard Bell.

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.

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Another option

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

After registering, you will be sent a confirmation email with
important information that you should keep in a safe place.

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION

Your computer will automatically install software and prepare your
computer for use. This may take some time, please do not turn off
your computer; wait until the installation has finished.

RECOVERY

You should create recovery discs as soon as you are able. The Packard
Bell Recovery Management program allow you to create recovery discs
and then to restore or reinstall applications and drivers provided by
Packard Bell. You will need a pack of writable DVDs.

See page 68 for more information about recovery.

HAVING TROUBLE?

Packard Bell provides several options to support your purchase.

Packard Bell support

Make sure you write down your computer serial number, date and
place of purchase and model name on the area provided in this guide;

Starting your computer -

5

save your proof of purchase. Before you call us, please write down any
error message that accompanies the problem, and have the computer
in front of you and switched on if possible. Having these items to
hand when contacting us will ensure better and quicker service.

Packard Bell website

Remember to visit www.packardbell.com - Check out the support
section for up-to-date information, help, drivers and downloads.

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.

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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.

Computer Basics -

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• 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.

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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 dust has accumulated inside your computer, do not use a vacuum

cleaner to remove it.

• If you spill liquid on your computer or any device attached to it,

switch it off immediately, unplug the power cord 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.

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,

Computer Basics -

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• 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 work or play for hours at a time, then make sure you take

regular breaks. Look away from the computer's screen once in a
while. Do not use your computer if you are tired.

• 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.

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• 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 -

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SETTING UP YOUR COMPUTER

ARRANGING A COMFORTABLE WORK AREA

Working safely and comfortably begins with the arrangement of your
work space and the proper use of equipment. For this reason, it is very
important to take time and think about how you are going to arrange
your work area. Refer to the diagram on the following page as you set
up your system.

Here are some points to consider:

Adjusting your chair

Having the right kind of chair does not necessarily mean you'll be
properly supported. It is necessary to adjust your chair to fit your
body. Proper body posture will make you more comfortable and
productive.

• Avoid tilting your chair. If you have a chair that tilts, lock the tilt

knobs so that your chair will not tilt forward or backward while you
are using your computer.

• Adjust your chair height in such a way that you can sit on it with

your thighs parallel to the floor and your feet resting flat on the
floor.

• Rest your body on the chair back. Your torso works harder to

maintain balance if you do not rest your body on the chair back.

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Positioning your PC

Take note of the following when selecting a location for your
computer:

• Do not put your computer near any equipment that might cause

electromagnetic or radio frequency interference, such as radio
transmitters, televisions, copy machines or heating and air­conditioning equipment.

• Avoid dusty areas and extremes of temperature and humidity.

• You may place your computer beside your desk or under your table,

as long as it does not block the space you need for working and
moving.

Setting up your computer -

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Positioning your monitor

Place your monitor at a comfortable viewing distance, usually 50 to 60
cm away. Adjust the display in such a way that the top of the screen is
at or slightly below eye level.

Positioning your keyboard

The location of the keyboard is a very important factor for your
posture. Placing it too far away will make your body lean forward,
forcing you to sit in an unnatural position. Placing it too high will add
tension to your shoulder muscles.

• The keyboard should be placed just above your lap. Adjust the

keyboard height by flipping the folding stands located under the
keyboard.

• Keep your lower arms parallel to the floor as you type. Your upper

arms and shoulders should be relaxed. Then try typing with a light
touch. If you feel any shoulder or neck strain, stop for a while and
check your posture.

• Position your keyboard in front of your monitor. Putting your

keyboard beside your monitor will make you turn your head while
you type which could add tension to your neck muscles.

Positioning your mouse

• The mouse should be placed on the same surface as your keyboard

so that you can reach it with ease.

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• Adjust its position to allow enough space for movement without

making you stretch or lean over.

• Use your arm to move the mouse. Do not rest your wrist on the

table when moving the mouse.

1. Plug the power cable into the power cable socket located on the

rear panel of your computer.

2. Plug the other end of the power cable into a power outlet.

Setting up your computer -

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USING YOUR COMPUTER

CONNECTING THE COMPUTER

Setting up your computer is easy. For the most part, you only have
four things to connect: the mouse, the keyboard, the monitor, and the
power cable.

Note: The peripherals shown in the connections below are for
your reference only. Actual device models may vary in select
countries.

Connect your mouse and keyboard

PS/2 interface

Plug the PS/2 mouse and keyboard cable into the PS/2 keyboard port
(purple port) and mouse port (green port) located on the rear panel of
your computer.

USB interface

You can also plug a USB mouse or a USB keyboard cable into any of
the USB ports located on the front and rear panels of your computer.

Connect a monitor

To connect a monitor, simply plug the monitor cable into the DVI port
located on the rear panel of your computer.

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Note: Refer to the monitor manual for additional instructions and
information.

Connect to a broadband network

Individual network configuration

Connect one end of the network cable on the network port on the
rear of the computer, then connect the other end of the network
cable into the cable modem or network jack or hub on your network.

Note: Consult your operating system help files for information on
how to configure your network setup.

Connect to power

Caution: Before you proceed, check the voltage range in your
area. Make sure that it matches your computer's voltage setting.
If they don't match, change your computer's voltage setting
according to your area's voltage range.

TURNING ON YOUR COMPUTER

After making sure that you have properly set up the system, applied
power, and connected all the necessary peripherals, you can now
power on the system.

Important: Make sure that the power cable is properly plugged
into an electrical outlet. If you are using a power strip or an AVR

Using your computer -

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(Auto-Voltage Regulator), make sure that it is plugged in and
turned on.

TURNING OFF YOUR COMPUTER

1. On the Windows taskbar, click on the Start button, then click Shut

Down.

2. Turn off all peripherals connected to your computer.
If you cannot shut down your computer normally, press and hold the

power button for at least four seconds. Quickly pressing the button
may put the computer in suspend mode only.

USING THE OPTICAL DRIVE

Your computer may come with an optical drive. This drive is located
on the front panel of your computer. The drive allows you to play all
common CD, DVDs, and optionally Blu-ray discs. You may also save
information and create your own CDs or DVDs with appropriate
software and special writable discs (e.g by using a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD­R or DVD-RW).

Optical discs are compact, lightweight and easy to carry around.
However, they are delicate and must be handled with care.

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To insert a disc into your computer's optical drive:

1. Press the optical drive’s eject button.

2. When the disc tray slides open, place the disc gently on the tray.

Make sure that the label or title side of the disc is facing upward.
When holding a disc, hold it by the edges to avoid leaving smudges
or fingerprints.

3. Push the tray and it will close automatically or press the eject/load

button.

Taking care of your optical discs

• Keep your disc in its case when not in use to avoid scratches or other

damage. Any kind of dirt or damage can affect the data on the disc,
impair the disc lens reader on the optical drive, or stop the
computer from successfully reading the disc.

• When handling discs, always hold them by the edges to avoid

smudges or fingerprints.

• When cleaning discs, use a clean, dust-free cloth and wipe in a

straight line from the center to the edge. Do not wipe in a circular
motion.

• Clean you optical drive periodically with a cleaning kit; cleaning kits

may be purchased at any computer or electronics shop.

Using your computer -

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UPGRADING YOUR COMPUTER

EXPANDING THROUGH OPTIONS

Your computer offers you many options for a complete computing
experience.

Connectivity options

Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For
instructions on how to connect different external devices to the
computer, read the following section.

Memory card reader

Memory cards are used in a wide selection of
digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile
phones.

Inserting a memory card

1. Align the card so that the connector points

towards the port, with the connectors facing
down.

2. Carefully slide the card into the port. If you find you need to use any

force to insert the card, try reorientating the card slightly.

3. Push the card until it clicks into place. A few millimetres of the card

will extend from beyond the slot.

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If the card contains some files, the

2

1

appear (this depends on the contents of the card) and ask you if you
wish to use a program to access the contents of the card. Select an
option here if it is appropriate, otherwise select Cancel. If the card
contains no files, or unknown files, a window will open showing the
contents of the card.

Windows Auto Play

window may

Removing a card from an memory card reader

1. Click on the Safely Remove

Hardware icon in the

Notification Area

clock).

2. Click on Eject SD Card (or the

name of the

3. Wait until a

Hardware

4. Remove the card.

message is displayed.

(next to the

device).

Safe to Remove

Built-in networking

The built-in networking allows you to connect your computer to
an Ethernet-based network.

Connect an Ethernet cable from the Ethernet (RJ-45) port on the
chassis of the computer to a network jack or hub on your
network.

Upgrading your computer -

21

Universal Serial Bus (USB)

The USB port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect
USB peripherals without taking up system resources.

Certain computers may include one or more USB 3.0 ports. These
resemble standard USB ports, except they include additional internal
connections and are blue. You may use USB 3.0 compatible devices
with these ports to benefit from faster transfer speeds.

Video port

Connect to a monitor with a VGA or DVI port (the type of connection
supported depends on your computer’s configuration). The
appropriate cable is usually included with the monitor.

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Follow these steps to connect an monitor to your computer:

1. Check that the computer is powered off and the monitor power

switch is turned off.

2. Attach the video cable to the monitor port on the computer. Secure

the cable connection with the screws provided.

3. Connect the monitor power cable and plug it into a properly

grounded wall outlet.

4. Follow any setup instructions in the monitor's user's guide.

5. Turn on power to the monitor, then the computer.

6. Make sure that the current resolution and refresh rate do not

exceed the specifications of the monitor. If necessary change the
display settings used by the computer.

Note: To access the display controls: Click on Start, Control Panel,
Appearance and Personalization. Click on the Display category,
then select Change Display Settings.

Upgrading your computer -

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High-Definition Multimedia Interface (only for certain models)

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is an
industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/
video interface. HDMI provides an interface between any
compatible digital audio/video source, such as a set-top
box, DVD player, and A/V receiver and a compatible
digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital
television (DTV), over a single cable.

Use the HDMI port on your computer to connect with
high-end audio and video equipment. Single cable
implementation allows tidy setup and fast connection.

Headphones and microphone

These two ports allow you to connect audio devices. Use the
headphone port to plug in stereo headphones or powered speakers.
Plugging an audio device to the headphone port disables the built-in
speakers. Use the microphone port to connect an external microphone
for mono recording; plugging in an external microphone disables the
built-in microphone.

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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 ’pre­installed’ 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
window opens. The

Center

new features and tools of
Windows. You can access the

Welcome Center

Start > Getting Started.

introduces you to the

Welcome Center

Welcome

later by clicking

Software -

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Internet security offer

It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the
Internet (see
security suite, including a free trial subscription period, is offered
when you first start your computer. You should activate this
protection before connecting to the Internet. This security suite
protects your computer from the most recent online threats and
protects your personal data (bank account credentials, credit card
numbers, passwords, and more).

Internet security

on page 62). An comprehensive Internet

Productivity software

Work Great with Microsoft® Office 2010 - Express your ideas, solve
problems and simplify everyday projects with Office 2010.

Photo editing - Easily edit and print your photos with Windows Live
Photo Gallery. Then share them on Facebook, YouTube™ or Windows
Live.

Search & Decide with Bing™ - Find and organize the answers you
need using Bing™, so you can make faster, more informed decisions.

Packard Bell Recovery Management

To prepare your computer for system recovery options, you should
create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible. See page 68 for more
information.

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Playing multimedia files

You may use the media software on your computer to play music,
films or photo slide-shows and watch television (if your computer has
a TV tuner). Other options allow you to create CDs or DVDs.

One or more media programs are installed on your computer,

Windows Media Player

provided by Microsoft. Other media programs may have been
installed by Packard Bell to provide an improved media experience.

and optionally

Windows Media Center

are

Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player

CDs or most video files.

may be used to play MP3 or WMA audio files,

Note: It is not recommended that you use Windows Media Player
to play DVD movies. Other media players (such as Windows Media
Center) provide additional playback options.

Windows Media Center (optional)

Certain computers include all­in-one media ‘centers’ such as

Windows Media Center

programs can handle a variety
of multimedia content,
presented with simple menus
that may be easily controlled
with a remote control. You
may watch live or recorded TV

. These

Software -

27

(if your computer has a TV tuner), listen to digital music, view pictures
and personal videos, create CDs and DVDs, or access content from
online services.

To start the media program installed on your computer, click on Start
> Windows Media Center.

Setup

Caution:

they must be connected and active before starting the media
program for the first time.

The first time you start the media program, it will start a setup wizard,
which will configure some basic settings. If available, select the

Express

needed.

If your computer includes a remote control or TV tuner

setup option, you may then configure additional options as

Note: If you have an Internet connection, the Guide (Electronic
Program Guide) allows you to view a list of current TV shows. This
shows channel and network information, as well as the title,
description and scheduled broadcast time of shows.

Cyberlink PowerDVD (optional)

If your computer does not include Windows Media Center, or it is
equipped with a Blu-ray drive, you may watch movies with
You may start
program to start automatically.

PowerDVD

by inserting a disc and waiting for the

PowerDVD

.

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