VTech POWERZONE PLUS DESKTOP User Manual

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Dear Parent:

At VTech® we know that a child has the ability to do great things.

That’s why all of our electronic learning products are uniquely

designed to develop a child’s mind and allow them to learn to the

best of their ability. Whether it’s learning about letters, numbers,

geography or algebra, all VTech® learning products incorporate

advanced technologies and extensive curriculum to encourage

children of all ages to reach their potential.

When it comes to providing interactive products that enlighten,

entertain and develop minds, at VTech® we see the potential in

every child.

Copyright © 2001 VTech® Industries, LLC All Rights Reserved. VTech and the VTech® Logo are registered trademarks of VTech®. Power Zone™ is a trademark of VTech® Industries, LLC. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability VTech® Industries, LLC and its suppliers assume no responsibility for

any damage or loss resulting from the use of this handbook. VTech Industries, LLC and its suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or claims by third parties that may arise through the use of this software.

VTech® Industries, LLC and its suppliers assume no responsibility for

any damage or loss caused by deletion of data as a result of malfunction, dead battery, or repairs. Be sure to make backup copies of important data on other media to protect against data loss.

Important!

Please read the VTech® End-User Software License Agreement and other respective license agreements before using the accompanying software applications. Using any part of the software indicates that you accept the terms of the VTech® End-User Software License Agreement.

This product includes software developed by the Apache Software Foundation (http://www.apache.org/).

The Apache Software License, Version 1.1 Copyright © 1999-2000 The Apache Software Foundation. All rights reserved. Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions are met:

1. Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer.

2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer in the documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution.

3. The end-user documentation included with the redistribution, if any, must include the following acknowledgment:

“This product includes software developed by the Apache Software Foundation (http://www.apache.org/).”

Alternately, this acknowledgment may appear in the software itself, if and wherever such third-party acknowledgments normally appear.

4. The names “Xerces” and “Apache Software Foundation” must not be used to endorse or promote products derived from this software without prior written permission. For written permission, please contact apache@apache.org.

5. Products derived from this software may not be called “Apache”, nor may “Apache” appear in their name, without prior written permission of the Apache Software Foundation.

THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND ANY EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE APACHE SOFTWARE FOUNDATION OR ITS CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.

This software consists of voluntary contributions made by many individuals on behalf of the Apache Software Foundation and was originally based on software copyright © 1999, International Business Machines, Inc., http:/ /www.ibm.com. For more information on the Apache Software Foundation, please see <http://www.apache.org/>.

Contents

Chapter 1.Introduction ............................................................................... 1

Chapter 2.What’s Included ......................................................................... 2

Chapter 3.Setup ........................................................................................ 2

Power Source ................................................................................... 2

Battery Installation ............................................................................. 2

Battery Notice .............................................................................. 3

Backup Battery Installation ................................................................. 3

AC Adaptor Connection .................................................................... 4

Vibrating Mouse Connection.............................................................. 4

Sync Cable Connection ..................................................................... 4

VTech

If Your Unit Doesn’t Turn On or Stops Responding................................ 7

Still Having Problems? ..........................................................................7

Auto Shut-Off ................................................................................... 8

Chapter 4.Mouse, Keyboard and Cursor Control.......................................... 8

Vibrating Mouse ............................................................................... 8

Contrast Control................................................................................ 9

Volume Control ................................................................................. 9

Power Button .................................................................................... 9

Speed Scroller .................................................................................. 9

Keyboard ......................................................................................... 9

Special Keys ................................................................................... 10

Storing the Mouse and Keyboard ..................................................... 13

Chapter 5.Description of Activities............................................................. 13

Selecting Activities .......................................................................... 13

Activities with Levels and 2-Player Mode ........................................... 14

Status Indicators.............................................................................. 14

Training Zone ................................................................................. 14

Desktop Software Installation .................................................. 5

PC System Requirements ............................................................... 5

Inside the CD-ROM....................................................................... 5

Installing the VTech

Desktop Software ........................................... 6

Setting Up a VTech® Desktop Software Account............................... 6

Installing Other Bundled Applications............................................. 7

Cleaning the Mouse ...................................................................... 8

Auto-Navigation ........................................................................ 14

Manual Navigation .................................................................... 15

Word Games.................................................................................. 15

Spelling ..................................................................................... 15

Analogies .................................................................................. 15

Idioms ....................................................................................... 15

Sentence Shuffle ......................................................................... 15

Sound Alike ............................................................................... 16

Antonyms .................................................................................. 16

Synonyms .................................................................................. 16

Parts of Speech .......................................................................... 16

Grammar Quiz .......................................................................... 16

Math Games .................................................................................. 16

Addition .................................................................................... 16

Subtraction ................................................................................ 16

Multiplication ............................................................................. 16

Division ..................................................................................... 17

Basic Math Fun........................................................................... 17

Algebra Attack ........................................................................... 17

Geometry .................................................................................. 17

Common Multiple ....................................................................... 17

Factor ........................................................................................ 17

Math Challenge.......................................................................... 17

Story Problem ............................................................................ 17

Trivia Games .................................................................................. 18

Sports ........................................................................................ 18

Geography ................................................................................ 18

History ....................................................................................... 18

Strange Trivia ............................................................................. 18

Homework Lab ............................................................................... 18

German Tester ............................................................................ 18

French Tester .............................................................................. 18

Spanish Tester ............................................................................ 18

Entertainment ................................................................................. 18

Lab Test 1................................................................................... 18

Lab Test 2................................................................................... 19

Quick Guess .............................................................................. 19

Domino Crisis............................................................................. 19

Memory Block ............................................................................ 19

Golf........................................................................................... 19

Picture Parts ............................................................................... 19

Typing Challenge........................................................................ 19

Clue Counter .............................................................................. 20

Challenge....................................................................................... 20

Mind Challenge.......................................................................... 20

BioRhythm.................................................................................. 20

Tools .............................................................................................. 20

Calendar ................................................................................... 20

Daily Planner ......................................................................... 20

Address Book ............................................................................. 21

Money Manager ........................................................................ 21

Word Processor.......................................................................... 21

Test Trainer ................................................................................. 24

Conversion Pad .......................................................................... 25

Calculator .................................................................................. 25

Logo .......................................................................................... 25

File Transfer ............................................................................... 32

German Translator...................................................................... 32

French Translator ........................................................................ 32

Spanish Translator ...................................................................... 32

Spell Checker ............................................................................. 32

Chapter 6. Smart Cards ........................................................................... 32

Chapter 7. E-mail .................................................................................... 33

Using E-mail ................................................................................... 33

Using E-mail From Your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop With the VTech

Modem ..................................................................... 33

Connecting the VTech® Modem to Power Zone™ Plus Desktop........ 34

First-Time Users: Configuring the Power Zone™ E-Mail

Application ................................................................................ 34

Using VTech®'s E-mail Agent and PC with your Power Zone™ Plus

Desktop ..................................................................................... 35

The VTech

Desktop Software E-mail Agent and Sync ........................ 35

First-Time Users: Configuring the VTech® Desktop Software

E-mail Agent .................................................................................. 36

™

Using the Power Zone

E-mail Application........................................ 36

The Mailbox ............................................................................... 36

The Menu Bar............................................................................. 36

Using the Menu Bar .................................................................... 36

Viewing Additional Menus .......................................................... 37

Writing E-mail............................................................................ 37

Saving E-mail as a Draft ............................................................. 37

Sending Your E-mail to the Outbox .............................................. 37

Sending and Getting E-Mail with a VTech

Modem ....................... 38

Sending and Getting E-Mail with the VTech® Desktop

Software E-mail Agent ................................................................ 38

Reading E-mail........................................................................... 38

Replying to E-mail ...................................................................... 38

Forwarding E-mail ...................................................................... 39

Deleting E-mail ........................................................................... 39

Editing a Draft E-mail ................................................................. 39

Importing E-mail from the Power Zone

™

Word Processor ............... 39

Exporting E-mail to the Power Zone™ Word Processor ................... 39

Using Addresses from the Address Book....................................... 40

Printing E-mail Messages ............................................................ 40

Updating Your E-mail Information and Modem Settings ................. 40

Memory ..................................................................................... 41

Chapter 8. VTech

Desktop Software ......................................................... 41

Add a New User Account ................................................................ 41

Sync .............................................................................................. 42

Syncing Power Zone™ Plus Desktop with Your Computer ................... 42

Adding New Activities into Your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop................ 43

Deleting Activities From Power Zone

™

Plus Desktop ............................ 44

Uploading Files From Power Zone™ Plus Desktop to Your Computer ..... 44

Chapter 9. VT-41 Printer Connection ......................................................... 44

Troubleshooting for VT-41 Printer Errors............................................ 45

Technical Support..................................................................................... 45

Care and Maintenance............................................................................. 46

FCC Notice ............................................................................................. 46

Chapter 1.Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the VTech® Power Zone™ Plus Desktop learning product! We at VTech® are committed to providing the highest quality products to entertain and educate your children. Should you have any questions or concerns, please call our Consumer Services Department at 1-800-521-2010 in the U.S. or 1-800-267-7377 in Canada.

The VTech® Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is an electronic learning aid or ELA. Power Zone™ Plus Desktop offers a wide range of exciting and educational activities for interactive learning! With the VTech® Desktop Software and Sync Cable, you can connect the Power Zone™ Plus Desktop to your PC and add new activities from the CD-ROM. If you have a computer with Internet access, you can download new activities and data files from www.planetvtech.com (using your Internet-connected computer), and then add those files to your Power

Zone™ Plus Desktop.

Volume Control

LCD

ON/OFF

Contrast Control

Button

IR Transmitter

IR Reciever

Category Selector

Keyboard

Mouse Mouse

Pad

Speed Scroller

Chapter 2.What’s Included

1. Power Zone™ Plus Desktop learning product

2. Wireless keyboard

3. Vibrating mouse

4. 9V Adaptor

5. Mouse pad

6. Sync Cable

7. VTech® Desktop Software CD-ROM

8. Instruction Manual

Chapter 3.Setup

Power Source

Power Zone™ Plus Desktop requires a total of 8 “AA” size batteries (UM-3/

LR6) (sold separately)

• Power Zone™ Plus Desktop ’s main cabinet operates on 4 “AA” size batteries (UM-3/LR6) (sold separately) or a 9V 300mA AC center-positive

Adaptor.

• Power Zone™ Plus Desktop also requires 2 “AA” size backup batteries (UM-3/LR6) (sold separately) for memory backup. Even when using a 9V Adaptor, we recommend that you install batteries for memory backup. Memory backup batteries are used to save information in Power Zone™ Plus Desktop’s memory.

• Power Zone™ Plus Desktop ’s wireless keyboard requires 2”AA” size batteries (UM-3/LR6) (sold separately)

Battery Installation

If Power Zone™ Plus Desktop suddenly stops working or the sound becomes weak, turn Power Zone™ Plus Desktop OFF for 15 seconds and then turn it back ON. If the problem persists, the batteries may be weak. Please install a new set of batteries and try again.

1. Make sure Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is turned OFF.

2. Locate the battery cover on the bottom of Power Zone™ Plus Desktop and open it.

3. Insert 4 “AA” size batteries as illustrated.

DO NOT USE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES

in this unit.

4. Close the battery cover.

Battery Notice

1. Do not use rechargeable batteries. (The use of alkaline batteries is recommended for maximum performance.)

2. Install batteries, observing the correct polarity (+, –) signs to avoid leakage.

3. Do not mix old and new batteries.

4. Do not use different types of batteries.

5. Remove batteries from the product if you are not going to use it for an extended period.

6. Do not dispose of batteries in fire.

7. Do not attempt to recharge ordinary batteries.

8. The supply terminals are not to be short-circuited.

Backup Battery Installation

Power Zone™ Plus Desktop comes installed with a backup battery. To avoid damage to Power Zone™ Plus Desktop from leaky batteries, replace the backup battery at least once a year. Should find that you need to replace the backup battery, follow the instructions below.

1. Make sure Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is turned OFF.

2. Locate the backup battery cover on the bottom of Power Zone™ Plus Desktop and open it.

3. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the cover.

4. Insert 2 “AA” size batteries as illustrated. DO NOT USE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES in this unit.

5. Replace the battery cover.

Important!

While replacing the backup batteries, the 4 “AA” size batteries must be kept in Power Zone™ Plus Desktop or Power Zone™ Plus Desktop must be connected to the 9V Adaptor while the Adaptor is plugged in.

When replacing the 4 “AA” size batteries, the backup battery must be kept in Power Zone™ Plus Desktop, or Power Zone™ Plus Desktop must be connected to the 9V Adaptor while the Adaptor is plugged in. Otherwise, you will lose all the information stored in the following applications:

• Word Processor • Money Manager

• Calendar • Scoring Statistics

• Address Book • E-mail

• Test Trainer • Options

• Logo Programming • All downloaded activities

AC Adaptor Connection

Use a standard 9V Adaptor 300mA AC center-positive .

1. Make sure Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is turned OFF.

2. Locate the Adaptor jack on the left side of Power Zone™ Plus Desktop.

3. Plug the Adaptor into Power Zone™ Plus Desktop’s Adaptor jack.

4. Plug the Adaptor into a wall outlet.

5. Turn Power Zone™ Plus Desktop ON.

Important! Do not leave the Adaptor plugged in for long periods of time if Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is not in use.

Vibrating Mouse Connection

The vibrating mouse adds a new dimension of fun to the Power Zone™ Plus Desktop. To optimize the vibration effect, we recommend that you use the mouse

pad when using the vibrating mouse.The vibration effect will only work when the mouse is plugged into Power Zone™ Plus Desktop’s main cabinet. The vibration effect will not work when the mouse is plugged into the keyboard. To turn the vibrating function off, go to the OPTIONS menu.

1. Make sure Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is OFF.

2. Locate the mouse jack on the right side of Power Zone™ Plus Desktop main cabinet.

3. Plug the mouse into Power Zone™ Plus Desktop’s mouse jack.

4. Turn Power Zone™ Plus Desktop ON.

Sync Cable Connection

The Sync Cable connects your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop to your PC. When properly connected, you can synchronize the information on Power Zone™ Plus Desktop with the VTech® Desktop Software, download new activities and games, and transfer files. Before installation make sure Power Zone™ Plus Desktop and the PC are turned OFF.

1. Turn OFF your computer and Power Zone™ Plus Desktop.

2. Plug the serial connection of the Sync Cable into an available serial port (COM1 or COM2) on the back of your computer.

3. Plug the other end of the Sync Cable into Power Zone™ Plus Desktop.

Important!

Your Sync Cable requires a dedicated serial port (COM1 or COM2). If you are unsure of the exact location of the serial port, refer to the manual supplied with your computer. Any programs sharing the serial port must be closed in order for the VTech® Sync Manager to function properly.

VTech® Desktop Software Installation

The VTech® Desktop Software is a PC application that creates a partnership between your computer and your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop. VTech® Desktop Software shares information with some of the applications on your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop.

With VTech® Desktop Software’s Organizer, you can review, add to, and update Calendar, Address Book, Money Manager and other files stored on your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop.

The VTech® Sync Manager updates and exchanges the information on your computer and your VTech® learning product.

Important! VTech® Desktop Software is compatible only with the Power Zone™ Plus

learning products. VTech® Desktop Software is not compatible with any other VTech learning products. For additional information about using the VTech Desktop Software, open the VTech® Desktop Software, and then choose Desktop Help from the Help menu.

PC System Requirements

Pentium® 166 or higher Microsoft® Windows® 95/98 32MB RAM (64 MB recommended) 60MB hard disk space or higher 640x480 screen resolution or higher 256 color SVGA or higher 4x CD ROM drive or higher Mouse or other pointing device RS-232 serial port (COM1 or COM2) Sound Card Internet Access IE 4.0 or Netscape 4.0 or higher

Inside the CD-ROM

VTech® Desktop Software E-mail Agent Word Processor Test Trainer Editor Additional downloadable activities and data Netscape® Communicator 4.76 Microsoft® Internet Explorer 5.5 Adobe® Acrobat® Reader™ 4.05

Installing the VTech® Desktop Software

Important!

Before you begin installation, save your work and quit all applications on your computer. The following items are automatically installed:

• VTech® Desktop Software

• E-mail Agent

• Word Processor

• Test Trainer Editor

• Additional downloadable activities and data for play on the Power Zone™

Plus Desktop

1. Insert the VTech® Desktop Software CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive on your computer. Setup should start automatically.

2. If Setup does not begin automatically, on the Windows Start menu, click Run, and then type d:\autorun\autorun, where d is the letter assigned to the CD-ROM drive containing the VTech® Desktop Software CD-ROM. Follow the instructions on your PC screen.

3. A menu will be shown. Select VTECH DESKTOP SOFTWARE from the menu and then follow the instructions on your PC screen.

4. Click Finish at the Setup Complete screen to complete the software installation.

5. After installation is complete, you will need to create a desktop software account.

Setting Up a VTech® Desktop Software Account

Before setting up a desktop software account, make sure:

• VTech® Desktop Software is installed on your computer

• Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is properly connected to your computer by using the Sync Cable

• Sync Manager is running

• All other programs sharing the COM port with the Sync Manager should be closed

1. Turn on your VTech® learning product, and wait for the opening animation. You can bypass the opening animation displays by pressing ENTER.

2. Press the Sync button on your VTech® learning product.

3. On your computer’s monitor, an animation will appear to indicate that your VTech® learning product is communicating with your computer.

4. A “Select User” pop-up box should appear on your computer’s screen.

5. Type in a name for the new user. This name should typically be your child’s name. If you have multiple Power Zone™ Plus Desktop learning products, the account names must be different for each product.

6. Click on the New User button to confirm the new user name.

Installing Other Bundled Applications

The VTech® Desktop Software CD-ROM includes additional applications:

Microsoft® Internet Explorer 5.5 Netscape® Communicator 4.76 Adobe® Acrobat® Reader™ 4.05

1. Insert the VTech® Desktop Software CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive on your computer. Setup should start automatically.

3. A setup menu will be shown. Select the application you want to install.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Click FINISH to complete the installation.

6. You may be prompted to restart your computer.

If Your Unit Doesn’t Turn On or Stops Responding

If Power Zone™ Plus Desktop does not turn on when pressing the POWER button, or if Power Zone™ Plus Desktop suddenly stops responding, the batteries may need to be replaced or Power Zone™ Plus Desktop may need to be reset.

1. Before trying new batteries, press and hold the RESET button on the category selector. Use the tip of a paperclip, or a similar object without a sharp tip, to gently press the RESET button. The unit will shut down with a beep sound. Press the POWER button to turn on Power Zone™ Plus Desktop again.

2. Check your batteries. Make sure the batteries are fresh and installed properly.

Still Having Problems?

If the problem still persists, we encourage you to contact our Consumer Services Department at 1-800-521-2010 in the U.S. or 1-800-267-7377 in Canada with any problems and/or suggestions that you might have. A service representative will be happy to assist you.

Before requesting support, please be ready to provide the information below:

• The name of your product or model no. (The model no is typically located on the back or bottom of your product.)

• The actual error message or problem you are receiving.

• The steps you took to arrive at the error message or problem.

Auto Shut-Off

If there is no input, Power Zone™ Plus Desktop will automatically shut off after several minutes. This is the product's Auto shut-off feature. After Auto shut-off, you will need to press the POWER button again. We recommend that you turn Power Zone™ Plus Desktop OFF when not playing with it. If Power Zone™ Plus Desktop is not going to be used for a long period of time, remove the batteries and unplug the Adaptor.

Chapter 4.Mouse, Keyboard and Cursor Control

Vibrating Mouse

The vibrating mouse adds a new dimension of fun to the Power Zone™ Plus Desktop. To optimize the vibration effect, we recommend you to use a mouse

pad when using the vibrating mouse. To turn the vibrating function off, go to the OPTIONS menu.

To use the mouse, push it in the direction that you would like the pointer on-screen to move. To move the pointer to the right side of the screen, push the mouse to the right. To move the pointer to the left side of the screen, push the mouse to the left. To move the pointer to the top of the screen, push the mouse away from you. To move the pointer to the bottom of the screen, pull the mouse towards you.

In most activities, pressing the left mouse button will have the same effect as pressing ENTER. And pressing the right button will have the same effect as pressing the ESC key.

Cleaning the Mouse

To clean the mouse, open the cover on the bottom of the mouse using a screwdriver. Once the cover is removed, the mouse ball should be taken out, and the contents inside the mouse should be cleaned with a dry cloth. The mouse ball should be cleaned with a dry cloth. Place the mouse ball back into the mouse. Place the cover back on the mouse, and then screw the cover back on.

LEFT BUTTON

RIGHT BUTTON

MOUSE COVER

MOUSE BALL

Contrast Control

Adjust the image on screen by sliding the Contrast control to the right for higher contrast, and left for lower contrast.

Volume Control

Adjust the volume by sliding the Volume control to the right to raise the volume, and left to lower the volume.

Power Button

POWER

Turn ON your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop learning aid by pressing the POWER button on the category selector. Turn Power Zone™ Plus Desktop OFF by pressing the POWER button again.

Speed Scroller

SPEED SCROLLER

The Speed Scroller is used to scroll the screen up and down. When you press the Speed Scroller, it performs the same function as pressing ENTER on the keyboard.

Keyboard

Esc

Tab

Caps Lock

Shift

Player 1 Help

Symbol Level

Player

Ctrl

Space

# 3

Answer

^ 6

The VTech® Power Zone™ Plus Desktop learning aid has a full alphanumeric keyboard with 65 keys.

(

)

Repeat

Alt

Backspace

}{

POIUYTREW

Pg Up

Home

Pg Dn

Del

][

Ins

Enter

Shift

Player 2

End

Special Keys

In addition to the alphanumeric keys, there are special function keys:

Esc key

Esc

The Esc key allows you to exit an activity. By repeatedly pressing the Esc key, you can go back to the main menu.

Player 1 Help

Help key

When you are not sure about the answer, press the Help key. Help will give you hints, but, at the same time, you will lose a chance to answer the question. Press this key to receive hints in some of the activities. In activities like Synonyms or Antonyms, Help will show one of the letters in the answers as a hint.

Caps Lock key

Caps Lock

Press this key to make everything you type appear in capital letters without having to press the Shift key each time. Press once to activate this key. Press it again to release it.

Repeat key

Repeat

Press this key to repeat the instruction and the question.

Answer key

Answer

Press this key to find the correct answer to a question. You will not receive points if this key is pressed.

Important!

In the 2-player mode, this key cannot be used during player one’s turn.

Enter key

Enter

Press this key after choosing each answer so that Power Zone™ Plus Desktop can recognize your input.

Player

Symbol Level

Player key

Press this key to select the 1-player or 2-player mode in some activities with 2-player mode feature.

Level key

Press this key to select a level of difficulty. There are four levels with the first level being the easiest and fourth level being the most difficult. Levels can be changed at any time during an activity.

Symbol Level

Backspace

Symbol key

Press the Shift key and the Level key together to see a menu that contains several pages of symbols. Use the direction keys to select a symbol. Press the ENTER key or the left mouse button to confirm your selection.

Backspace key

To correct an answer before it has been confirmed, or to delete the entry, press the Backspace key.

Pg Up

Direction keys

These four keys will move the cursor up, down, left and right.

Home Player 2

Pg Dn

End

Space bar

Space

When typing, use this key to insert a space between words or numbers.

Player 1 Help

Player 2

Player 1/player 2 keys

End

Press this key to select player 1 or player 2 to get the chance to answer the question first in the activities that have a 2-player mode.

Categories

There are 52 activities divided into four categories, they are Training, Entertainment, Challenge and Tools. There is a download category as well for you to access activities downloaded from your PC .

Main

Go directly to the Main Menu.

Category Buttons

Category buttons are available to go directly to the selected group activities for TRAINING, ENTERTAINMENT, CHALLENGE, TOOLS and DOWNLOAD.

E-mail

Access to the E-mail application. For details on the E-mail application, please refer to Chapter 7.

Sync

Synchronize the data between Power Zone™ Plus Desktop and your desktop computer. For details, please refer to Chapter 8.

File Transfer

Access to the File Transfer. Use File Transfer to select files that you want to upload to your computer.

Smart Card

Press this key to access the Smart Card (sold separately). Make sure a Smart Card is inserted properly into the Smart Card slot. For additional information, see the section Smart Cards.

Print Screen

Press this key to print the current screen.

Demo

Use the Demo key to demonstrate Power Zone™ Plus Desktop’s activities. Pressing the Demo key at the Main Menu will demonstrate each of the activities and then return to the main menu. If the Demo key is pressed when in an activity, it will demonstrate that activity, then return control to the player.

Options

1. File Manager

File Manager allows you to view the files on the Power Zone™ Plus Desktop or RAM Smart Card (sold separately). The File Manager allows you to move and copy files between the Power Zone™ Plus Desktop and a RAM Smart Card. You can open a file or start a downloaded activity in File Manager. You can also rename files or delete files.

Important!

Formatting a RAM Smart Card will permanently erase all data stored in the card. Formatting Power Zone™ Plus Desktop will permanently erase all data stored on the main unit.

2. Auto/Manual

Choose between Manual Navigation and Auto Navigation in Training mode.

• In Auto Navigation, Power Zone™ Plus Desktop chooses questions from different Math, Word, Homework Lab and Trivia activities.

• In Manual Navigation, you can choose any activity you want to play.

3. Preferences

In Preferences, you can modify your own settings for the following features:

• Auto Scroll Speed • Mouse Vibration

• Date Format • Screen Saver

• Mouse Pointer • Bubble Help Text

4. Sound Effects

This function allows you to change sound effects of certain events, or turn the sound off.

5. Background Music

This function allows you to turn the background music on or off.

6. Date & Time

Set the date, time and alarm clock.

Storing the Mouse and Keyboard

The mouse and keyboard can be stored on the back of the main unit. First, place the mouse behind the base of the main cabinet. The mouse cable can fit securely in the cable track as shown. The keyboard hangs on the back of the unit as illustrated.

Chapter 5.Description of Activities

Selecting Activities

1. Turn ON your Power Zone™ Plus Desktop learning product by pressing the POWER button.

2. Choose a category.

• Press one of the Training, Entertainment, Challenge, Tools or Download buttons.

• Use the mouse or Direction Pad to select a category on screen and press ENTER.

3. Select an activity, and then press ENTER.

Activities with Levels and 2-Player Mode

ACTIVITY LEVEL 2-PLAYER MODE

All Word Games 1 - 4 YES All Math Games 1 - 4 YES All Trivia Games 1 - 4 YES All Homework Lab NO YES Clue Counter 1 - 4 NO Quick Guess NO NO Golf Game 1 - 4 NO Lab Test 1 NO NO Lab Test 2 NO NO Typing Challenge 1 - 4 NO Domino Crisis 1 - 4 NO Picture Parts NO NO Memory Block 1 - 4 NO All Challenge Games NO NO All Tools NO NO

Status Indicators

Most activities have two status indicators that appear on screen. The status of the activity, including player, time remaining, number of chances remaining, score and level are shown at the top of the screen. The status bar at the bottom shows the current date and time. To view the status indicators, move the mouse pointer to the top or bottom of the screen.

Training Zone

Training Zone has two playing modes: Auto-Navigation and Manual-Navigation.

Auto-Navigation

Auto-Navigation includes 3 different training applications; each application combines activities from different categories. Activities in this zone are Word Games, Math Games, Trivia Games and Homework Lab. Training Zone randomly selects a question, but you can still select the type of question by controlling where the spaceship docks on screen.

Power Zone™ Plus Desktop will keep the top 5 scores of each training application. When your score is higher than one of the top 5 scores, you will be asked to enter your name and your name will be stored on Power Zone™ Plus Desktop.

Manual Navigation

Activities are divided into Word Games, Math Games, Trivia Games and Homework Lab. You can choose the activity you want to play.

Important!

The default setting is Auto-Navigation.To change the default mode, go to the Options screen, then select the Auto/Manual option.

Word Games

Spelling

An animation of a word and a clue letter will appear on screen. Guess the word, type the word correctly, and then press ENTER.

Analogies

A sentence will be displayed with one word missing. Two words will scroll across the screen. Select the word that fits the meaning of the sentence. When the correct answer appears on screen, press ENTER.

Idioms

An idiom is an accepted phrase that does not have a literal meaning. Idioms are a fun part of the English language. An idiom will be displayed. Two multiple choice answers will appear. Choose the most appropriate word or phrase that fits the meaning of the idiom. When the correct answer appears on screen, press ENTER.

Sentence Shuffle

A sentence will be shown with its words in random order. You will be asked to reconstruct the sentence by selecting and moving words.

There are two ways to select a word:

1. To select a word with the mouse, move the pointer to the desired word and press the left mouse button.

2. To select a word using the keyboard, move the cursor to the desired word and press ENTER.

There are two ways to move a word: First, select a word, then use one of the steps below.

1. To move a word with the mouse, move the pointer to the desired location (space between two words) and press the left mouse button.

2. To move a word with the keyboard, press the left or right arrow keys to move the selected word to the desired location and press ENTER. Once you have completed the sentence, click the Confirm icon.

Sound Alike

A sentence will be displayed with one word missing. Two words with the same pronunciation will scroll across the bottom of the screen. Select the word that fits the meaning of the sentence. When the correct answer appears on screen, press ENTER.

Antonyms

A word will be shown. Use the clues to guess the word that has the opposite meaning of the given word. Type the word, and then press ENTER.

Synonyms

A word will be shown. Use the clues to guess the word that has the same meaning of the given word. Type the word, and then press ENTER.

Parts of Speech

A sentence will be displayed on screen and Power Zone™ Plus Desktop will ask you to find the correct part of speech, such as a noun or a verb, in the given sentence. Pick the best word for the answer by using the mouse or the Direction keys and press ENTER.

Grammar Quiz

A sentence will be displayed with one word missing. Three multiple choice answers will be shown at the bottom of the screen. Select the correct answer, and then

press ENTER to confirm.

Math Games

Addition

An addition problem will appear on screen. Input the correct answer using the number keys, and then press the ENTER key. Press the FLIP button on the keyboard or click the Flip icon on screen to switch the equation between vertical and horizontal format.

Subtraction

A subtraction problem will appear on-screen. Input the correct answer using the number keys, and then press the ENTER key. Press the FLIP button on the keyboard or click the Flip icon on screen to switch the equation between vertical and horizontal format.

Multiplication

A multiplication problem will appear on screen. Input the correct answer using the number keys, and then press the ENTER key. Press the FLIP button on the keyboard or click the Flip icon on screen to switch the equation between vertical and horizontal format.

Division

A division problem will appear on screen. Input the correct answer using the number keys, and then press the ENTER key. Press the FLIP button on the keyboard or click the Flip icon on screen to switch the equation between vertical and horizontal format.

Basic Math Fun

An addition, subtraction, multiplication or division problem will appear on screen. Input the correct answer using the number keys, and then press the ENTER key. Press the FLIP button on the keyboard or click the Flip icon on screen to switch the equation between vertical and horizontal format.

Algebra Attack

An algebra question will appear on screen. Find the value of the unknown number “x”. Input the correct answer using the number keys, and then press ENTER.

Geometry

A figure will appear on screen. In level 1, you will be asked how many sides are in the given figure. In level 2, you will be asked to find the area of the given figure. In levels 3 and 4, you need to find the perimeter or unknown of the given figure. Input the correct answer using number keys, and then press the ENTER key.

Common Multiple

A question and three answers will be shown. Find the lowest common multiple from the choices. Click the left mouse button or press the ENTER when the correct answer appears on screen.

Factor

A question and three answers will be shown. Find the greatest common factor from the choices. Click the left mouse button or press ENTER when the correct answer appears on screen.

Math Challenge

Power Zone™ Plus Desktop will challenge you with random questions from

Algebra Attack, Geometry, Common Multiple and Factor.

Story Problem

A math problem will appear. Choose the best answer from the choices given, and then press the ENTER key.

Trivia Games

Sports

This game tests your knowledge on a variety of sports. Pick the correct answer from the choices given. Press ENTER when the correct answer appears on screen.

Geography

This challenging trivia game tests your knowledge of Geography. Pick the correct answer from the choices given. When the correct answer appears on screen, press ENTER.

History

This challenging trivia game tests your knowledge on World History. Pick the correct answer from the choices given. When the correct answer appears on screen, press ENTER.

Strange Trivia

This game tests your knowledge of a variety of strange and mysterious events. Pick the correct answer from the choices given. When the correct answer appears on screen, press ENTER.

Homework Lab

German Tester

In this activity you will be tested on the German words and phrases from the German Translator activity.

French Tester

In this activity you will be tested on the French words and phrases from the French Translator activity.

Spanish Tester

In this activity you will be tested on the Spanish words and phrases from the Spanish Translator activity.

Entertainment

Lab Test 1

In this activity, you can view simulations of interesting physical & chemical phenomena. You can conduct the tests yourself. Information for each experiment includes Materials, Procedure & Results, Explanation and Simulation in the activity.

Lab Test 2

In this activity, you can view additional simulations of interesting physical & chemical phenomena.

Quick Guess

An object is hidden in one of three given balls. The balls will move positions. Look carefully. When the balls stop moving, click on the ball that you think holds the object.

Domino Crisis

Place flying domino numbers together. To clear domino numbers, like numbers have to be placed together in an amount equal to the domino. For example: To clear a domino with the number two, you have to place two dominoes with the number two together. To clear a domino with the number three, you have to place three dominoes with the number three together. Move the dominoes up and down by pressing Up and Down. Hold the Right arrow key to make the dominoes move faster. Press ENTER, Flip key or press the Space bar to rotate the dominoes.

Memory Block

A game of concentration and memory, this activity challenges your ability to find all of the matching pairs of blocks with a minimum number of guesses.

Golf

Play eighteen holes on Power Zone™ Plus Desktop’s own golf course. Use the Direction keys to adjust the direction of the ball, and then press ENTER to go to the tee.

Next, you have to control the power of your swing. At the top of the screen is the Power bar. Press ENTER when the bar is at its maximum (farthest to the right) for a powerful swing. For lighter strokes, wait until the bar is at its minimum.

Picture Parts

Choose a hairstyle and outfit for the model on screen. To choose different styles, press the four directional arrow keys on the keyboard or use the mouse to click the icons on screen.

Typing Challenge

Words will drop from top of the screen to the bottom. Type as fast as you can. if more than 5 words are missed, the game is over. At the end of the game, Power Zone™ Plus Desktop will tell you the speed and accuracy of your typing.

VTech POWERZONE PLUS DESKTOP User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual