Quanta Computer 1200015318 Notebook Computer with Built-In Wireless LAN User Manual Solo1200
Quanta Computer Inc Notebook Computer with Built-In Wireless LAN Solo1200
Contents
- 1. User Manual Section 1
- 2. User Masnual section 2
- 3. Mini PCI Card
User Manual Section 1
i
Contents
1 Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1200. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Identifying your model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Multi-function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Using the touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Using the rocker switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Connecting the modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Connecting to an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Broadband Internet connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
3Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
HelpSpot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
HelpSpot Videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
4 Windows Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
About the Windows environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Desktop items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Window items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Using the Start menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Solo1200.book Page i Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
ii
Working with files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
About drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
About folders and files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Copying and moving files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Deleting files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Browsing for files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Searching for files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Using the Windows Search utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Working with documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Creating a new document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Saving a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Opening a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Printing a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Transferring software and hardware from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Transferring files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Transferring Internet settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Reinstalling your old printer or scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Reinstalling your old programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
5 Using the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Learning about the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Setting up an Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Accessing your Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Using the World Wide Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Connecting to a Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Downloading files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Using e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Sending e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Checking your e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
6 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Using Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Using diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Using the CD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
Listening to music CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Recording and playing audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Playing audio and video files with Windows Media Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Using MusicMatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Playing CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Creating music files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Editing track information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
Solo1200.book Page ii Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
iii
Building a music library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Changing the music library display settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Listening to Internet radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Using advanced features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
7 Sending and Receiving Faxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Setting up your cover page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Sending a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Faxing from programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Receiving and viewing a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
8 Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Changing automatic power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
9 Travel Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
10 Customizing Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Adjusting the screen and desktop settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Adjusting the color depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Adjusting the screen area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Applying a color scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Changing the desktop background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Selecting a screen saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Changing the touchpad settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Programming the multi-function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Allocating system memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
11 Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Adding a PC Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Solo1200.book Page iii Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
iv
Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Replacing the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145
12 Networking Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
Using a network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148
Sharing a single Internet connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148
Sharing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148
Sharing peripherals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Streaming audio and video files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Playing multi-player games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Introducing the Gateway Connected Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150
Components of a Gateway Connected Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151
Selecting a network connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152
Wired connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152
Wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153
Assessing your connection needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154
Comparing data transfer speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157
Network shopping list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .159
HPNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .159
Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160
Wireless Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161
For more information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162
13 Maintaining Your Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163
Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163
Creating an emergency startup diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165
Protecting your computer from viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169
Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169
Using Disk Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170
Scanning the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171
Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173
Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
Using Maintenance Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176
Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178
Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178
Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Cleaning the screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Solo1200.book Page iv Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
v
14 Reinstalling Device Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Reinstalling device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Updating device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
15 Restoring Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Reinstalling Windows Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
Reinstalling programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
16 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
Software support tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
CD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Device installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
LCD panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
ScanDisk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Before calling Gateway Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Tutoring and training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Solo1200.book Page v Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
vi
A Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Solo1200.book Page vi Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
1
1
www.gateway.com
Checking Out
Your Gateway
Solo 1200
Tips & Tricks To access the contents of this manual while you are
traveling, download an electronic copy from
www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
Solo1200.book Page 1 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
2
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1200
www.gateway.com
Front
Component Description
Cover release latch Open notebook cover by pressing the release latch.
Cover release latch
Solo1200.book Page 2 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
3
Left
www.gateway.com
Left
Component Icon Description
PC Card eject button Press the eject button to remove a PC Card from the
PC Card slot.
PC Card slot Insert one Type I, II, or III PC Card into this slot. For
more information, see “Adding a PC Card” on page 138.
Diskette drive Insert a standard 3.5-inch diskette into this drive. For
more information, see “Using diskettes” on page 82.
Diskette drive eject button Press the eject button to remove a diskette from the
drive.
PC Card
eject button PC Card slot Diskette drive Diskette drive
eject button
Solo1200.book Page 3 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
4
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1200
www.gateway.com
Right
Component Icon Description
CD drive Insert CDs into this drive. For more information, see
“Using the CD drive” on page 83.
CD drive indicator Lights up when the computer is accessing the CD drive.
CD drive eject button Press the eject button to eject the disc tray from the
drive.
Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack.
Headphone jack Plug headphones or amplified speakers into this jack.
Modem jack Plug a telephone cord into this jack.
Battery charge indicator The LED shows the battery activity and status.
■Green – battery is fully charged.
■Orange – battery is being charged.
■Red – battery is low.
■Blinking and red – battery is very low.
■Blinking and orange – battery is malfunctioning.
CD drive CD drive
indicator
CD drive eject
button Microphone
jack Headphone
jack
Modem
jack
Power
indicator
Battery
charge
indicator
Solo1200.book Page 4 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
5
Right
www.gateway.com
Power indicator Lights up when the notebook is turned on and shows
notebook power status:
■LED on – notebook is ON.
■LED off – notebook is OFF or in Hibernate.
■LED flashing – notebook is in Standby.
Component Icon Description
Solo1200.book Page 5 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
6
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1200
www.gateway.com
Back
Component Icon Description
USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a
USB Iomega™ Zip™ drive, printer, scanner, or camera)
into these ports.
Parallel port Plug a parallel printer into this port.
Fan Helps cool internal components. Do not block or insert
objects into these slots.
Monitor port Plug an external (VGA) monitor into this port.
Kensington™ lock slot Secure your computer to an object by connecting a
Kensington cable lock to this slot.
Ethernet jack (optional) Plug a 10/100 Ethernet network cable into this jack. For
more information, see “Connecting to an Ethernet
network” on page 30 and “Networking Your Computer”
on page 147.
Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.
USB ports Parallel port Monitor port
Fan
Kensington
lock slot
Ethernet
jack
Power
connector
Solo1200.book Page 6 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
7
Bottom
www.gateway.com
Bottom
Component Icon Description
Hard drive assembly Remove this assembly to replace the hard drive.
Certificate of Authenticity
label Find the registration key for the operating system on this
label.
Memory bay Install a memory module in this bay.
Battery release latch Slide to release the battery.
Battery Insert the battery into this bay.
System identification
label Find the product model number and serial number on
this label.
Hard drive
assembly
Battery
release
latch
Battery
System
identification
label
Memory
bay
Certificate of
authenticity
label
Solo1200.book Page 7 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
8
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1200
www.gateway.com
Identifying your model
The label on the bottom of your computer contains information that
identifies your notebook model. Gateway Technical Support will need this
information if you call for assistance. Label information varies by model.
Gateway part
number
Gateway
model
number
Gateway
serial
number
Revision
code and
display
type/
processor
size
Internal
wireless
devices
Solo1200.book Page 8 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
9
Accessories
www.gateway.com
Accessories
Gateway offers accessories that can help you make the most of using your
notebook.
Batteries and automobile/airplane power adapters
If you run your notebook on battery power for extended periods, you may
want to buy an additional battery so that you can swap batteries when
necessary.
With an automobile/airplane power adapter, you can save battery power by
plugging your notebook into an automobile cigarette lighter or an airplane
in-flight power receptacle.
Carrying cases
Gateway has large-capacity carrying cases if you need additional space for
accessories or supplies.
External devices
You can attach external devices such as a keyboard, mouse, printer, or monitor
to your notebook.
Memory
Large programs, such as multimedia games or graphics programs, use a lot of
memory. If your programs are running more slowly than you think they
should, try adding more memory.
Printers
You can attach many types of printers to your computer. The most common
types are inkjet and laser printers, which print in color or black and white.
Inkjet printers and cartridges are relatively inexpensive, but usually they are
slower than laser printers. Using an inkjet color printer, you can print pictures,
banners, greeting cards, as well as documents.
Laser printers and cartridges are more expensive, but usually they print much
faster than inkjet printers. Laser printers are better than inkjet printers when
you are printing large documents.
Solo1200.book Page 9 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
10
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1200
www.gateway.com
Solo1200.book Page 10 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
11
2
www.gateway.com
Getting Started
This chapter provides basic information about your Gateway notebook. Read
this chapter to find out:
■How to connect the AC adapter
■How to start and turn off your notebook
■How to use the keyboard
■How to use the EZ Pad™ touchpad
■How to connect the modem
■How to connect to a network
■How to install peripheral devices
Warning Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere
with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation
regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while
traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11b (also known as
wireless Ethernet or Wifi) and Bluetooth communication
devices are examples of devices that provide wireless
communication.
Important If your system came equipped with an internal radio
frequency wireless device, see “Safety, Regulatory, and
Legal Information” on page 215 for general wireless
regulatory and safety guidelines. To find out if your system
has an internal wireless device, check the label (see
“Identifying your model” on page 8.
Solo1200.book Page 11 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
12
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Connecting the AC adapter
You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or the notebook battery. The
battery was shipped to you partially charged. You should use the AC adapter
right away to fully charge the battery. Allow 24 hours for the battery to fully
charge.
To connect the AC adapter:
1Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.
Important If the battery is not fully charged before you use your
notebook on battery power for the first time, the battery life
may be much shorter than you expect. If the battery life
seems short even after being charged for 24 hours, the
battery may need to be recalibrated. For information on
recalibrating the battery, see “Recalibrating the battery” on
page 177.
Warning Replace the power cord if it becomes damaged. The
replacement cord must be of the same type and voltage
rating as the original cord or the notebook may be
damaged.
Solo1200.book Page 12 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
13
Connecting the AC adapter
www.gateway.com
2Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power connector.
3Plug the power cord into an AC power outlet.
The battery charging indicator light turns on. If the battery charging
indicator light does not turn on, disconnect the adapter from your
notebook and repeat Step 2.
4When you finish using your notebook the first time, turn the notebook
off and leave the notebook connected to AC power for at least 24 hours.
Warning Do not attempt to disassemble the AC adapter. The
AC adapter has no user-replaceable or user-serviceable
parts inside. The AC adapter has dangerous voltages that
can cause serious injury or death. Contact Gateway about
returning defective AC adapters.
Solo1200.book Page 13 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
14
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Protecting from power source problems
During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your
computer can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system
damage. Protect your computer and peripherals by connecting them to a surge
protector, which will absorb voltage surges and prevent them from reaching
your computer.
Warning High voltages can enter your computer through both the
power cord and the modem connection. Protect your
computer by using a surge protector. If you have a
telephone modem, use a surge protector that has a
modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge
protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack. During an
electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the
modem.
Solo1200.book Page 14 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
15
Starting your notebook
www.gateway.com
Starting your notebook
To start the notebook:
1Open your notebook by pressing the latch on the front of your notebook
and lifting the LCD panel.
2Press the power button located above the keyboard.
Power button
Solo1200.book Page 15 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
16
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
The power button is preset to On/Off mode. However, you can also set
it to function in Standby/Resume mode. For instructions on changing
the power button mode, see “Changing automatic power settings” on
page 113.
3If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen
instructions to set up your computer.
Waking up your notebook
When you have not used your notebook for several minutes, it will go into
a power-saving mode called Standby. While in Standby, the power indicator
light flashes.
If your notebook has gone into Standby mode, “wake” it up by pressing the
power button. For more information on changing power-saving settings, see
“Managing Power” on page 107.
Solo1200.book Page 16 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
17
Turning off your notebook
www.gateway.com
Turning off your notebook
To turn off your notebook:
1Click Start, then select Shut Down. The Shut Down Windows dialog box
opens.
2Select Shut down.
3Click OK. Windows shuts down and turns off your notebook.
Important If for some reason you cannot use the Shut down option
in Windows to turn off your notebook, press and hold the
power button for about five seconds.
Solo1200.book Page 17 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
18
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Status indicators
Caps lock
Pad lock
Scroll lock
Diskette
drive Hard
drive CD drive
Solo1200.book Page 18 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
19
Status indicators
www.gateway.com
This light turns
on... When...
Caps Lock is turned on.
Pad Lock is turned on.
Scroll Lock is turned on.
The notebook is accessing the diskette drive.
The notebook is accessing the hard drive.
The notebook is accessing the CD drive.
1
Solo1200.book Page 19 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
20
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Using the keyboard
Your notebook features a full-size keyboard that has the full functionality of
a desktop computer keyboard. Many of the keys have been assigned alternate
functions, including shortcut keys for Windows, function keys for specific
system operations, and the Pad Lock keys for the numeric keypad.
You can attach an external keyboard to the notebook using a USB port. You
do not need to shut down the notebook to connect a USB keyboard.
System
keys System
keys
Numeric
keypad
Navigation
keys
FN key Windows
key Windows
key Application
key Arrow
keys
Solo1200.book Page 20 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
21
Using the keyboard
www.gateway.com
Keys
Component Icon Description
Function keys Press these keys labeled F1 to F12 to perform actions
in programs. For example, pressing F1 may open help.
Each program uses different function keys for different
purposes. Refer to the program documentation to find
out more about the function key actions.
Numeric keypad Use these keys to type numbers when numeric keypad
is turned on. Press FN+PAD LOCK to turn on the
numeric keypad.
System keys Press these green or blue-colored keys in combination
with the FNkey to perform a specific action.
Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor to the beginning
of a line, to the end of a line, up the page, down the
page, to the beginning of a document, or to the end
of a document.
FN key Press the FNkey in combination with a green or
blue-colored system key (such as STANDBY, or PAUSE)
to perform a specific action.
Windows key Press to open the Windows Start menu. These keys
can also be used in combination with other keys to
open utilities like F(Search utility), R(Run utility), and
E(Explorer utility).
Application key Press for quick access to shortcut menus and help
assistants in Windows.
Arrow keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right,
or left.
Solo1200.book Page 21 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
22
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
System key combinations
When you press the FN key and a system key at the same time, the notebook
performs an action identified by the green or blue text on the key.
Press and hold FN while
pressing this system key... To...
Display the power status box in the upper left corner of your
screen. The menu shows the battery charge level, the BIOS
version, and whether the AC adapter is being used. Press the
key combination again to close this box.
Toggle the notebook screen between the LCD, an external
monitor, or both at the same time. A monitor must be plugged
into the monitor port on the notebook.
Enter Standby mode. Press the power button to leave Standby
mode.
Turn on Pad Lock so you can use the numeric keypad. Press
this key combination again to turn off Pad Lock. The Pad Lock
status indicator lights up while this function is turned on.
Pause the text scrolling in a DOS screen. The Scroll Lock
status indicator appears when this function is turned on. Press
the key combination again to continue scrolling. (This function
is only available in some programs.)
Pause execution of a DOS program. (This function is only
available in some programs.)
Stop the currently running DOS program. (This function is only
available in some programs.)
Increase the volume.
Solo1200.book Page 22 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
23
Using the keyboard
www.gateway.com
Decrease the volume.
Mute the volume.
Press and hold FN while
pressing this system key... To...
Solo1200.book Page 23 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
24
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Multi-function buttons
Button Icon Press to...
E-mail Open your e-mail program.
Internet Open your Web browser.
E-mail Internet Help User-defined
shortcut
Solo1200.book Page 24 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
25
Using the keyboard
www.gateway.com
Help Open online help.
User-defined shortcut Open the program you assign to this key.
Button Icon Press to...
Solo1200.book Page 25 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
26
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Using the EZ Pad touchpad
The EZ Pad™ consists of a touchpad, two buttons, and a rocker switch.
When you move your finger on the touchpad, the pointer (arrow) on the screen
moves in the same direction.
You can use the EZ-Pad left and right buttons below the touchpad to select
objects. You can scroll, zoom, autoscroll, and pan using the rocker switch
between the touchpad buttons. Scrolling capabilities are available in some
Windows applications, including Microsoft Office.
Touchpad
Left
touchpad
button
Right
touchpad
button
Rocker
switch
Solo1200.book Page 26 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
27
Using the EZ Pad touchpad
www.gateway.com
Using the touchpad
To... Do this...
Move the pointer
on the screen. Move your finger around on the
touchpad. If you run out of
space on your touchpad and
need to move the pointer
farther, lift your finger, move it
to the middle of the touchpad,
then continue moving your
finger.
Select an object
on the screen. Position the pointer over the
object. Press the left button
below the touchpad once. This
action is called clicking.
Start a program
or open a file or
folder.
Position the pointer over the
object. Press the left button
below the touchpad twice in
rapid succession. This action is
called double-clicking.
Access a
shortcut menu or
find more
information
about an object
on the screen.
Position the pointer over the
object. Quickly press and
release the right button once.
This action is called
right-clicking.
Solo1200.book Page 27 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
28
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Using the rocker switch
Move an object
on the screen. Position the pointer over the
object. Press the left button
and hold it down, then use the
touchpad to move (drag) the
object to the appropriate part of
the screen. Release the button
to drop the object where you
want it.
To... Do this...
Scroll up/down Press forward or backward on the rocker switch to scroll through documents.
Zoom in/out Press and hold the CTRL key as you apply pressure to the rocker switch.
Data zoom Press and hold the SHIFT key as you rock the switch to jump to a hyperlink,
return to previous Web sites using Internet Explorer, or expand or collapse
menu trees in Windows Explorer.
Autoscroll Click both sides of the rocker switch and let go once. The document continues
flowing until you use a keystroke, mouse click, or additional rocker action to
quit scrolling.
Pan Hold down both sides or the middle of the rocker switch and swipe your finger
across the Touchpad to scroll quickly, either vertically or horizontally. Lift your
finger from the touchpad to quit scrolling.
To... Do this...
then drag
Solo1200.book Page 28 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
29
Connecting the modem
www.gateway.com
Connecting the modem
If your notebook has a modem jack, the notebook has a built-in V.92 56K
modem.
To connect the modem:
1Insert one end of the telephone cord into the modem jack on the
right side of the notebook.
2Insert the other end of the telephone cord into a telephone wall jack.
The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.
3Start your notebook, then start your communications software.
Caution To reduce the risk of fire, use only a No. 26 AWG or larger
telecommunications line cord.
Solo1200.book Page 29 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
30
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Connecting to an Ethernet network
If your notebook has a network jack, you can connect it to a 10/100 Ethernet
network.
To connect to a network:
1Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack on the
back of the notebook.
2Insert the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack. Ask
your network administrator to help you select the correct network jack.
Your notebook is now physically connected to the network. Your network
administrator can help you log onto your network.
Solo1200.book Page 30 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
31
Connecting to an Ethernet network
www.gateway.com
Broadband Internet connections
You can use your computer’s Ethernet jack for more than just networking.
Many broadband Internet connections, such as cable modems and DSL
modems, connect to your computer’s Ethernet jack. For more information,
see “Using the Internet” on page 71 and “Networking Your Computer” on
page 147.
Solo1200.book Page 31 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
32
Chapter 2: Getting Started
www.gateway.com
Installing a printer, scanner, or other
peripheral device
Your computer has two Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports and a parallel printer
port. These ports are used for connecting peripheral devices such as printers,
scanners, and digital cameras to your computer.
USB ports support plug-and-play and hot swapping, which means that your
computer will usually recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the
appropriate port. When you use a USB device for the first time, your computer
will prompt you to install any software the device needs. After doing this,
you can disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.
Parallel devices are not plug-and-play. Refer to the device documentation for
detailed information and installation instructions.
Solo1200.book Page 32 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
33
3
www.gateway.com
Getting Help
This chapter tells you about additional information resources available to help
you use your computer. It includes the following topics:
■HelpSpot™
■Online help
■Gateway Web site
Tips & Tricks To access the contents of this manual while you are
traveling, download an electronic copy from
www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
Solo1200.book Page 33 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
34
Chapter 3: Getting Help
www.gateway.com
HelpSpot
HelpSpot is an easily accessible collection of Help information,
troubleshooters, instructional videos, and automated support. Use HelpSpot
to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and
use the many features of your Gateway computer.
To start HelpSpot:
■Click Start, then select Help.
-OR-
Double-click the Gateway Help and Support desktop icon.
HelpSpot opens.
If this is the first time you have started HelpSpot on your computer, you
will experience a brief wait while HelpSpot builds the help database, then
HelpSpot will display an introductory video.
Solo1200.book Page 34 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
35
HelpSpot
www.gateway.com
You can find help information by clicking a link, performing a search, or
browsing the index. To learn about how to work with documents and
programs, use your mouse, and other topics, click the Getting Started link on
the HelpSpot main page.
Solo1200.book Page 35 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
36
Chapter 3: Getting Help
www.gateway.com
HelpSpot Videos
HelpSpot contains several short videos to help introduce you to new concepts
or show you how to perform various tasks.
To play a HelpSpot video:
■To watch a video in HelpSpot, click Videos on the HelpSpot navigation
bar, then click a video title. The video plays.
Solo1200.book Page 36 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
37
Online help
www.gateway.com
Online help
Many programs provide information online so you can research a topic or
learn how to perform a task while you are using the program. Most online
help information can be accessed by selecting a topic from a Help menu or
by clicking a Help button.
You can search for information by viewing the help contents, checking the
index, searching for a topic or keyword, or browsing through the online help.
Solo1200.book Page 37 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
38
Chapter 3: Getting Help
www.gateway.com
Gateway Web site
Gateway provides a variety of information on its Web site to help you use
your computer.
Visit the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com for:
■Technical documentation and product manuals
■Technical tips and support
■Hardware drivers
■A glossary of computer terms
■Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
For more information about connecting to the Internet, see “Learning about
the Internet” on page 72.
Solo1200.book Page 38 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
39
Gateway Web site
www.gateway.com
You can access the following resources through the Gateway Web site or
through HelpSpot:
Resource Service description Location
Gateway
Update Utility This utility automatically finds, downloads, and
installs the latest drivers for your
Gateway-supplied hardware.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
Chat with
Gateway
CoPilot
Use this remote-help utility that allows Gateway
to deliver live person-to-person computer
support to you. Any time you engage in a live
chat session, a Gateway support representative
has the ability to resolve your in-warranty
technical issue in real time. This is done by
simultaneously viewing your desktop,
controlling the mouse and keyboard, and
chatting with you.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
-OR-
HelpSpot
Chat with
Search
Assistant
Engage in a live Internet chat session to help
you find data on the Gateway.com technical
support Web site. If the assistants cannot direct
you to the solution on the technical support site,
they will refer you to the area or department that
can.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
-OR-
HelpSpot
E-mail Tech
Support Get the answers to your technical inquiries by
e-mail from a Gateway Technical Support
representative.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
E-mail a Friend Send a link for the Web page you are currently
viewing on the Gateway Web site to anyone in
the world with an e-mail address.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Get the answers to many of our most common
customer service-related questions. www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
Chat with
Customer
Service
Engage in a live Internet chat session with a
Gateway Customer Service Assistant about a
non-technical issue.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
-OR-
HelpSpot
E-mail
Customer
Service
Get the answers to your non-technical inquiries
by e-mail from a Gateway Customer Service
Assistant.
www.gateway.com/
support/index.shtml
Solo1200.book Page 39 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
40
Chapter 3: Getting Help
www.gateway.com
Chat with
eSales Advisor Get a personalized look at what system is best
suited for your own individual needs. To use this
service, fill out the eSales Advisor
Questionnaire. The eSales Advisor will contact
you by telephone and discuss the Gateway
solution that best fits your needs.
www.gateway.com
-OR-
HelpSpot
Order Status Get information on whether your order has been
received, is in production, or has been shipped.
You will also be given an estimated or actual
shipping date, depending on the status. This
information is updated daily and is available 24
to 36 hours after an order is placed.
www.gateway.com
Resource Service description Location
Solo1200.book Page 40 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
41
4
www.gateway.com
Windows
Basics
Read this chapter to get basic information on how to:
■Work on the Windows desktop
■Manage files and folders
■Work with documents
■Use shortcuts
■Transfer software from your old computer
HelpSpot For more information on using Windows, double-click the
HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 41 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
42
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
About the Windows environment
After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop.
The desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your
personalized work space where you open programs and perform other tasks.
Your desktop may be different from the example shown below, depending on
how your computer is set up.
Solo1200.book Page 42 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
43
About the Windows environment
www.gateway.com
Desktop items
Icons are graphic representations of objects on the desktop that you select and
open, such as a drive, folder, file, or program. Buttons are graphic
representations of controls that you use to open windows or apply changes.
Desktop icons, buttons, and elements Description
The My Computer icon provides access to drives
and other computer controls. Double-click the My
Computer icon to view the drives and folders on
your computer.
My Documents is a folder where you store your
personal files. You can create other folders to
save files in, but My Documents is easy to find
because it is on the desktop. Double-click the My
Documents icon to view your personal files and
folders.
The Recycle Bin is where files, folders, and
programs that you discarded are stored. You
must empty the Recycle Bin to permanently
delete them from your computer. For instructions
on how to use the Recycle Bin, see “Deleting files
and folders” on page 53.
Microsoft Internet Explorer is a program called a
browser that lets you view Web sites and Web
pages on the Internet. Double-click the Internet
Explorer icon to open the browser.
The America Online Included icon lets you
connect to the America Online ISP (Internet
Service Provider).
Double-click the America Online Included icon
to dial the service.
Gateway has provided an easily accessible
interactive guide called HelpSpot. This guide is
designed to provide help information and let you
quickly discover and use the features of your
computer. Double-click the HelpSpot icon to
begin.
Solo1200.book Page 43 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
44
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
The Start button provides access to programs,
files, help for Windows and other programs, and
computer tools and utilities.
Click the Start button, then open a file or program
by clicking (selecting) an item on the menu that
opens.
The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the screen. It contains the Start button on the left and a
clock on the right. Other buttons on the taskbar represent programs that are running.
Click a program’s button on the taskbar to open the program’s window.
Desktop icons, buttons, and elements Description
Solo1200.book Page 44 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
45
About the Windows environment
www.gateway.com
Window items
When you double-click the icon for a drive, folder, file, or program, a window
opens on the desktop. This example shows the Local Disk (C:) window, which
opens after double-clicking the Local Disk (C:) icon in the My Computer
window.
Minimize
button
Maximize
button
Close
button
Title bar
Menu bar
Solo1200.book Page 45 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
46
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Every program window looks a little different because each has its own menus,
icons, and controls. Most windows include these items:
Window item Description
The title bar is the horizontal bar at the top of
a window that shows the name of the program.
Clicking the minimize button reduces the active
window to a button on the taskbar. Clicking the
program button in the taskbar opens the
window again.
Clicking the maximize button expands the
active window to fit the entire screen. Clicking
the maximize button again restores the window
to its former size.
Clicking the close button closes the active
window or program.
Clicking an item on the menu bar starts an
action such as Print or Save.
Solo1200.book Page 46 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
47
Using the Start menu
www.gateway.com
Using the Start menu
You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search
for files and folders, and more using the Start menu.
To open the Start menu:
■Click the Start button on the lower left of the Windows desktop. The Start
menu opens showing you the first level of menu items.
When you move the mouse pointer over any menu item that has an arrow
next to it, another menu, or submenu, opens and reveals related files,
programs, or commands. Click a file or program to open it.
Solo1200.book Page 47 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
48
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Working with files and folders
You can organize your files and programs to suit your preferences much like
you would store information in a file cabinet. You can store these files in
folders and copy, move, and delete the information just as you would
reorganize and throw away information in a file cabinet.
About drives
Drives are like file cabinets because they hold files and folders. A computer
almost always has more than one drive. Each drive has a letter, usually Local
Disk (C:) for the hard drive and 3½ Floppy (A:) for the diskette drive. You may
also have more drives such as a CD drive.
To view the drives on your computer:
■Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
HelpSpot For more information on working with files and folders,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Drives
Solo1200.book Page 48 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
49
Working with files and folders
www.gateway.com
To see the files and folders on a drive:
■Double-click the drive icon. If you do not see the contents of a drive after
you double-click its icon, click View the entire contents of this drive.
Solo1200.book Page 49 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
50
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
About folders and files
Folders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They contain files and other
folders.
Files are much like paper documents—letters, spreadsheets, and pictures—that
you keep on your computer. In fact, all information on a computer is stored
in files.
To create a folder:
1Double-click the My Computer icon on the desktop. The My Computer
window opens.
2Double-click the drive or folder, for example 3½ Floppy (A:) or Local
Disk (C:), where you want to put the new folder.
The drive or folder window opens. If you do not see the contents of the
drive or folder, click View the entire contents of [this drive or this folder].
3Select File, then New, then Folder. The new folder is created.
4Type a name for the folder, then press ENTER. The new folder name
appears under the folder.
Folders
Files
Solo1200.book Page 50 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
51
Working with files and folders
www.gateway.com
Copying and moving files and folders
The skills you need to copy and move files are copying, cutting, and pasting.
When you copy and paste a selection, you place a copy of the file you selected
on the Windows clipboard, which stores it. Then, when you decide what folder
you want the copy to go in (the destination folder), you paste it there.
When you cut and paste a selection, you remove the file from its folder and
place the file on the Windows clipboard. When you decide where you want
the file to go, you paste it there.
To copy a file or folder to another folder:
1Right-click the file or folder that you want to copy. A menu opens on
the desktop.
2Select Copy from the menu.
3Open the destination folder.
4With the pointer inside the destination folder, press the right mouse
button.
5Select Paste. A copy of the file or folder appears in the new location.
Important The clipboard stores whatever you cut or copy until you
cut or copy again. Then the clipboard contains the new
information only. Therefore, you can paste copies of a file
into more than one place, but as soon as you copy or cut
a file again, the old file is deleted from the clipboard.
Solo1200.book Page 51 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
52
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
To move a file or folder to another folder:
1Right-click the file or folder that you want to move. A menu opens on
the desktop.
2Select Cut from the menu.
3Open the destination folder.
4With the pointer inside the destination folder, press the right mouse
button.
5Select Paste. The file or folder you moved appears in its new location and
is removed from its old location.
Solo1200.book Page 52 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
53
Working with files and folders
www.gateway.com
Deleting files and folders
When you throw away paper files and folders, you take them from the file
cabinet and put them in a trash can. Eventually the trash can is emptied.
In Windows, you throw away files and folders by first moving them to
Windows trash can, the Recycle Bin, where they remain until you decide to
empty the bin.
You can recover any file in the Recycle Bin as long as the bin has not been
emptied.
To delete files or folders:
1In My Computer or Windows Explorer, select the files or folders that you
want to delete. For instructions on how to select multiple files and folders,
see “Shortcuts” on page 64.
2Select File, then Delete. Windows moves the files and folders to the
Recycle Bin.
To recover files or folders from the Recycle Bin:
1Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. The Recycle Bin window opens listing
the files and folders you have thrown away since you last emptied it.
2Select the files or folders that you want to restore. For instructions on
how to select multiple files and folders, see “Shortcuts” on page 64. Select
File, then Restore. Windows returns the deleted files or folders to their
original locations.
Solo1200.book Page 53 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
54
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
To empty the Recycle Bin:
1Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window
opens.
2Click File, then Empty Recycle Bin.
Windows asks you if you are sure that you want to empty the bin.
3Click Yes. Windows permanently deletes all the files in the Recycle Bin.
Caution Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently erases any files or
folders in the bin. These files cannot be restored.
Solo1200.book Page 54 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
55
Working with files and folders
www.gateway.com
Browsing for files and folders
A file or folder that you need is rarely right on top of your Windows desktop.
It is usually on a drive inside a folder that may be inside yet another folder,
and so on.
Windows drives, folders, and files are organized in the same way as a real file
cabinet in that they may have many levels (usually many more levels than
a file cabinet, in fact). So you usually will have to search through levels of
folders to find the file or folder that you need. This is called browsing.
To browse for a file:
1Double-click the My Computer icon on the desktop.
2Double-click the drive or folder that you think contains the file or folder
that you want to find.
3Continue double-clicking folders and their subfolders until you find the
file or folder you want. (If you do not see the contents of a folder, click
View the entire contents of this folder.)
Solo1200.book Page 55 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
56
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Searching for files
If you are looking for a particular file or folder or a set of files or folders that
have characteristics in common, but you do not remember where they are
stored on your hard drive, you can use the Search utility in Windows to search
by:
■Name or part of a name
■Creation date
■Modification date
■File type
■Text contained in the file
■Time period in which it was created or modified
You can also combine search criteria to refine searches.
Files and folders found using these utilities can be opened, copied, cut,
renamed, or deleted directly from the list in the results window.
Solo1200.book Page 56 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
57
Searching for files
www.gateway.com
Using the Windows Search utility
To find files and folders using the Search utility:
1Click Start, then select Search, then For Files or Folders. The search dialog
box opens.
2If you want to search by file or folder name, type in all or part of the
file or folder name in the Search for files or folders named box in the left
pane of the window.
■If you type all of the name, Search will list all files and folders of
that name.
■If you type part of the name, Search will list all of the file and folder
names containing the letters you typed.
Solo1200.book Page 57 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
58
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
3Click Search Now. When the search is completed, Windows lists the files
and folders whose names contain the text that you searched for.
4Open a file, folder, or program by double-clicking the name in the list.
Using advanced search options
Search can find files meeting more criteria than file name. You can select
options to narrow your search by clicking Search Options and selecting the
options that you want:
■Date searches for files that were created or modified on a specific date or
during a specific period.
■Size searches for files of a specific size.
■Type searches for files of a specific type, such as a program or a text
document.
■Advanced Options give you access to further search options.
Solo1200.book Page 58 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
59
Working with documents
www.gateway.com
Working with documents
Documents are commonly word processing files, spreadsheet files, or other
similar files. The basic methods of creating, saving, opening, and printing a
document apply to most of these types of files.
The following examples illustrate the concepts for creating, saving, opening,
and printing a document in Microsoft® Word. Though these examples use
Microsoft Word, similar procedures apply to other programs such as Microsoft
Excel, Microsoft Works, and Microsoft Publisher.
For more information about using a program, select Help on the menu bar.
Solo1200.book Page 59 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
60
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Creating a new document
To create a new document:
1Click Start, then select Programs, then Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word
starts and a blank document opens.
2Select File, then select New. The New dialog box opens.
3Click a tab for the type of document you want to create, select a
document template style, then click OK. The document template opens.
4Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at
the top of the window to format the document.
HelpSpot For more information on creating a document, double-click
the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 60 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
61
Working with documents
www.gateway.com
Saving a document
After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later.
To save a document in Microsoft Word:
1Select File, then Save. The Save As dialog box opens.
2Select the folder in which you plan to save the file from the Save in list.
3Type the new file name.
4Click Save.
HelpSpot For more information on saving a document, double-click
the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
File
folder
File
name
Solo1200.book Page 61 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
62
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Opening a document
To view, revise, or print an existing document, you need to open it. Open
the document in the program it was created in.
To open a document in Microsoft Word:
1Click Start, then select Programs, then Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word
starts and a blank document opens.
2Select File, then Open.
3Find the folder that contains the file you want to open in the Look in list.
4Double-click the document file name. The document opens.
HelpSpot For more information on opening a document, double-click
the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
File
folder
File
name
Solo1200.book Page 62 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
63
Working with documents
www.gateway.com
Printing a document
To print a document, you must have a printer connected to your computer
or have access to a network printer. For more information about installing or
using your printer, refer to the printer documentation.
To print a document in Microsoft Word:
1Make sure that the printer is turned on and loaded with paper.
2Start Microsoft Word and open a document.
3Select File, then Print. The Print dialog box opens.
4Select the print options, then click OK. The document prints.
HelpSpot For more information on printing a document, double-click
the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 63 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
64
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Shortcuts
The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and
almost all programs that run in Windows. For more information on Windows
shortcuts, see your Windows or program documentation.
To... Do this...
Copy a file, folder, text, or graphic Select the item, then press CTRL +C.
Cut a file, folder, text, or graphic Select the item, then press CTRL +X.
Paste a file, folder, text, or graphic Select the item, then press CTRL +V.
Select multiple icons on the desktop Click the first icon, press and hold down the CTRL key,
then click each of the remaining icons that you want to
select.
Select multiple items in a list or in an
Explorer window Click the first item, press and hold down the CTRL key,
then click each of the remaining items.
Select multiple adjacent items in a list Click the first item in the list, press and hold down the
SHIFT key, then click the last item in the list.
Permanently delete a file or folder Click the file or folder, then press SHIFT +DELETE. The
file is permanently deleted and is not stored in the
Recycle Bin.
Rename a file or folder Select the file or folder, press F2, type the new name,
then press ENTER.
Close the active window or program Press ALT +F4.
Switch to a different file, folder, or
running program Press ALT +TAB.
Solo1200.book Page 64 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
65
Transferring software and hardware from your old computer
www.gateway.com
Transferring software and hardware
from your old computer
If your new computer is replacing an old computer, you may have personal
data files, Internet settings, a printer or other peripheral devices, and other
unique computer settings that you want to move from your old computer to
your new one.
Gateway Data Mover Plus kit
If both your old and new computers have USB ports, you can use the
Gateway Data Mover Plus kit to automatically transfer customized computer
settings, such as Desktop settings, sound schemes, Internet and e-mail
settings, as well as personal data files, such as documents, spreadsheets, and
photographs. This program, with its special USB cable, helps you do this
quickly and efficiently. To order the Gateway Data Mover Plus kit, visit the
Gateway Accessory Store at www.gateway.com.
Transferring files
You can manually transfer your personal data files by
copying them to removable media, such as a diskette, CD,
or Zip disk, or by using a home network. For more
information, see “Networking Your Computer” on
page 147.
Finding your files
Many programs automatically save your personal data files in the
My Documents folder. Look in your old computer’s My Documents folder for
personal data files. Use Windows Search to locate other personal data files.
Solo1200.book Page 65 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
66
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
To find files in the My Documents folder:
1Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop. The My Computer
window opens.
2Double-click the C:\ drive icon. The C:\ window opens.
3Double-click the My Documents folder. The My Documents window opens
and displays many of your saved personal data files.
You can often identify different data file types by looking at the file’s extension
(the part of the file name following the last period). For example, a document
file might have a .DOC extension and a spreadsheet file might have an .XLS
extension.
To find files using Search:
1Click Start, then select Search, then For Files or Folders. The Search Results
window opens.
2Use Windows Search to locate data files by file name or file type. For help
on finding files, click Help, then select Help Topics.
File type File usually ends in...
Documents .DOC, .TXT, .RTF, .HTM, .HTML, .DOT
Spreadsheets .XLS, .XLT, .TXT
Pictures .JPG, .BMP, .GIF, .PDF, .PCT, .TIF, .PNG
Movies .MPEG, .MPG, .AVI, .GIF, .MOV
Sound and Music .WAV, .CDA, .MP3, .MID, .MIDI
Solo1200.book Page 66 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
67
Transferring software and hardware from your old computer
www.gateway.com
Transferring Internet settings
You can use different methods to transfer your Internet
account from your old computer to your new one.
Setting up your ISP
■If your current Internet Service Provider (ISP) software came preinstalled
on your new computer, run that setup program. If it asks to set up a new
account or an existing one, choose to reconnect to an existing account.
■If your current ISP software is not preinstalled on your new computer,
locate the original Internet setup program provided by your local ISP, or
contact your ISP to see if they have an updated version of their software,
and install it on your new computer.
■If you use MSN as your ISP, or if you know your ISP settings, use the
Windows Internet Connection Wizard.
To use the Internet Connection Wizard:
1Click Start, then select Programs, Accessories, Communications, then
Internet Connection Wizard. The Internet Connection Wizard window
opens.
2Configure your Internet settings by following the on-screen instructions.
Transferring your e-mail and address book
Refer to your old e-mail program’s online help for information on exporting
and importing e-mail messages and the address book. You can often export all
of your old e-mail messages or address book to a diskette, then import them
from the diskette into your new computer’s e-mail program. Alternatively, you
may want to consider simply printing the old information or e-mailing it to
yourself.
Transferring your Internet shortcuts
You can export and import your old bookmarks (Netscape Navigator) or
favorites (Microsoft Internet Explorer). For more information, refer to your
Internet browser program’s online help.
Solo1200.book Page 67 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
68
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Reinstalling your old printer or scanner
Older printers, scanners, or other peripheral devices may
have Windows support integrated (built in), which means
you do not need any additional software. Newer devices,
however, usually require your original software
installation CDs or diskettes.
Reinstalling a USB printer or scanner
USB devices may have special installation instructions. Refer to your USB
device’s installation guide.
Reinstalling a parallel port printer
You can usually install parallel port printers by following these steps.
To reinstall your old printer:
1Exit Windows and turn off your computer.
2Connect your parallel port printer.
3Turn on your printer, then your computer.
4If Windows detects your printer, install your printer by following the
on-screen instructions. You are finished.
- OR -
If Windows does not detect the printer, go to the next step.
5Click Start, then select Settings, then Printers. The Printers window opens.
6Double-click the Add Printer icon. The Add Printer Wizard window opens.
7Install your printer by following the on-screen instructions.
Refer to your peripheral device’s user guide for installation information and
tips. Because most installation software is periodically updated, you should
also check the publisher’s Web site for driver updates.
Solo1200.book Page 68 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
69
Transferring software and hardware from your old computer
www.gateway.com
Reinstalling your old programs
You probably use some programs that did not come
installed on your new computer, such as personal finance
software, graphics programs, or games.
Spend some time going through your old computer’s Start and Programs
menus, making note of any programs you want to install on your new
computer. Locate your original program installation CDs and installation
guides. Your original CDs and guides should contain any serial numbers or
product ID keys that may be required for program installation and
registration. Remember to check the publisher’s Web site for important
program updates.
Tips & Tricks If your new computer comes with a newer version of a
program, it is usually best to use the newer version than
to reinstall the old one.
Solo1200.book Page 69 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
70
Chapter 4: Windows Basics
www.gateway.com
Solo1200.book Page 70 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
71
5
www.gateway.com
Using the
Internet
This chapter provides information about the Internet and the World Wide
Web, and tells you how to set up the America Online® Internet service so that
you can send and receive e-mail and access other Internet resources.
Solo1200.book Page 71 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
72
Chapter 5: Using the Internet
www.gateway.com
Learning about the Internet
The Internet is a worldwide network of computers linked together to provide
information to people everywhere. The two most popular services on the
Internet are e-mail and the World Wide Web. You can access this network by
connecting your computer to a telephone, DSL, or cable line and signing up
with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
If you want to access the Internet you need:
■A modem – a device that connects your computer, using a telephone,
DSL, or cable line, to other computers or servers.
■An Internet Service Provider – a company that provides access to the
Internet through an ISP server. When you connect to an ISP, the ISP server
lets you access the Internet and your e-mail messages.
■A Web browser – a program that displays information from the World
Wide Web.
■An e-mail program – a program that lets you create, send, and receive
e-mail messages over the Internet.
Your computer
connects to the
Internet through
an ISP.
ISP Servers
let you connect to
the Internet and
access your e-mail
messages.
Internet Servers
store information so other
computers can access it
from the Internet.
Solo1200.book Page 72 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
73
Setting up an Internet account
www.gateway.com
Setting up an Internet account
Before you can view the information on the World Wide Web, you need to
set up an Internet account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). If you have
chosen America Online as an ISP, follow these instructions to set up and
connect to your account. To establish a different ISP service, or to transfer an
existing account to this computer, contact the ISP directly.
If you set up an account with America Online, an Internet e-mail address is
created for you. After completing the setup you are ready to access the
Internet.
To set up an Internet account with America Online:
1Double-click the America Online Included icon. If the icon is not on the
Windows desktop, look for the America Online Included icon located in the
Online Services folder on the Windows desktop.
2Follow the on-screen instructions. After setting up your account, you can
connect to the Internet and access your e-mail services.
HelpSpot For more information on setting up an Internet account,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 73 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
74
Chapter 5: Using the Internet
www.gateway.com
Accessing your Internet account
To connect to your America Online Internet account:
1Double-click the America Online Included icon. The Connect dialog box
opens.
2Complete the member name and password information, then click
Connect. The computer dials the Internet account telephone number.
If you are using a service other than America Online, check with your
ISP for the correct procedure for connecting.
After connecting, the Web browser window opens. For information about the
Web and the Web browser, see “Using the World Wide Web” on page 75.
To disconnect from your America Online Internet account:
■Click X in the top right corner of the America Online program. Your
computer disconnects from the Internet.
If you are using a service other than America Online, check with your
ISP for the correct procedure for disconnecting.
HelpSpot For more information on accessing your Internet account,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Important Make sure that your computer disconnects correctly from
your Internet account. If you do not have an “unlimited
hours” ISP account, you may have to pay for the time that
you are connected, even if you are not at the computer.
Solo1200.book Page 74 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
75
Using the World Wide Web
www.gateway.com
Using the World Wide Web
The World Wide Web is a multimedia window to the Internet that gives you
access to millions of information sources.
Information on the Web comes to you on Web pages, which are electronic
documents that you view using a Web page display program called a browser.
You can use any of the commercially available Web browsers, like Microsoft
Internet Explorer, which comes installed on your new computer.
Web pages can contain not only text, but animations, music, and other
multimedia features.
A group of related Web pages is called a Web site. You can access Web sites to
shop, track investments, read the news, download programs, and much more.
You can explore a Web site or visit other Web sites by clicking areas on the
Web page called links, or hyperlinks. A link may be colored or underlined text,
a picture, or an animated image. You can identify a link by moving the mouse
pointer over it. If the pointer changes to a hand, the item is a link.
To learn more about using the Web browser features, select Help in the menu
bar.
Web
page
Link
Linked Web page
Solo1200.book Page 75 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
76
Chapter 5: Using the Internet
www.gateway.com
Connecting to a Web site
After you set up an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as
America Online, you can access the many information sources on the World
Wide Web.
To connect to a Web site:
1Connect to your Internet account. After the computer connects, a default
opening page or welcome screen opens.
2To go to a different Web site, type the address (called a URL for “Universal
Resource Locator”) in the browser address bar (for example
www.gateway.com) then click GO on the browser address bar.
- OR -
On the current Web page, click a link to a Web site.
The Web browser locates the server computer on the Internet, downloads
(transfers) data to your computer, and displays the page on the site that
you requested.
Sometimes Web pages display slowly. The speed that a Web page displays on
your screen depends on the complexity of the Web page and other Internet
conditions. Additionally, the speed of your connection will determine how
fast Web pages display.
HelpSpot For more information on connecting to a Web site,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 76 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
77
Using the World Wide Web
www.gateway.com
Downloading files
Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the
Internet to your computer.
To protect your computer against viruses, make sure that you scan the files
you download. For more information, see “Protecting your computer from
viruses” on page 167.
To download files or programs from a Web site:
1Connect to your Internet account.
2In the address bar, type the address of the Web site that contains the file
or program you want to download, then click GO on the browser address
bar.
- OR -
Click on links on a Web page to navigate to the Web site containing the
file that you want to download.
3Create or locate the folder where you want to store the file on your
computer.
4Click the link on the Web page for the file that you want to download.
5Follow the on-screen instructions for saving the file in the folder that
you created.
A copy of the file is downloaded to your computer. The time that it takes
to transfer the file to your computer depends on file size and Internet
conditions.
6Open the folder that you created.
7Install or view the downloaded file by double-clicking it. If applicable,
follow the instructions provided on the Web site to run or install the
program.
HelpSpot For more information on downloading files, double-click the
HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 77 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
78
Chapter 5: Using the Internet
www.gateway.com
Using e-mail
E-mail (electronic mail) lets you send messages to anyone who has an Internet
connection and e-mail address. E-mail is usually a free service of your Internet
account.
The Internet never closes, so you can send e-mail messages at any time. Your
e-mail messages arrive at most e-mail addresses in minutes.
An e-mail address consists of a user name, the @ symbol, and the Internet
domain name of the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or company that “hosts”
that user. Your e-mail address is assigned when you sign up for an account
with an ISP. For example, a person with an account with the America Online
ISP might have an e-mail address that is similar to this one:
Sending e-mail
To send e-mail using America Online:
1Connect to your America Online account.
2Click Write.
3Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in
the Send To box.
4Type the subject of your e-mail in the Subject box.
5Type the e-mail message.
6When finished, click Send Now. Your e-mail is sent over the Internet to
the e-mail address you specified.
HelpSpot For more information on sending e-mail, double-click the
HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
jdoe@aol.com
User name Internet domain name
Solo1200.book Page 78 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
79
Using e-mail
www.gateway.com
Checking your e-mail
To check your e-mail using America Online:
1Connect to your America Online account.
2Click Read.
For more information about managing and organizing your e-mail messages,
see the online help in your e-mail program.
HelpSpot For more information on checking your e-mail, double-click
the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 79 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
80
Chapter 5: Using the Internet
www.gateway.com
Solo1200.book Page 80 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
81
6
www.gateway.com
Using
Multimedia
This chapter provides information on using the multimedia capabilities of
your notebook. Read this chapter to learn how to:
■Use the diskette drive
■Use the CD drive
■Play CDs
■Record and play audio files
■Use Windows Media Player
■Use MusicMatch
Solo1200.book Page 81 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
82
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Using Drives
This section explains how to use the diskette and CD drives.
Using diskettes
The diskette drive uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called floppy disks).
Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer.
To use a diskette:
1Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up.
2To access a file on the diskette, double-click the My Computer icon, the
drive letter, then the file.
3To remove the diskette, make sure the drive activity light is off, then press
the diskette eject button.
Caution Do not expose diskettes to water or magnetic fields.
Exposure could damage the data on the diskette.
Solo1200.book Page 82 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
83
Using Drives
www.gateway.com
Using the CD drive
You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features,
such as playing games and listening to audio CDs.
To insert a CD:
1Press the eject button on the CD drive, then pull the disc tray completely
open.
Solo1200.book Page 83 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
84
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
2Place the CD in the tray with the label up, then press down carefully on
the disc until it snaps into place.
3Push the tray in until it is closed.
Solo1200.book Page 84 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
85
Adjusting the volume
www.gateway.com
Adjusting the volume
You can use the volume controls to adjust the overall volume and the volume
of specific sound devices in your computer.
To adjust overall volume level:
■Click the speaker icon on the taskbar, then drag the slider to change the
volume or click to select the Mute check box.
-OR-
On the keyboard, press the FN+PAGE UP or PAGE DOWN keys to change
the volume, or press FN+HOME keys to turn off (mute) all sound.
HelpSpot For more information on adjusting volume, double-click the
HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 85 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
86
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
To adjust specific volume levels:
1Double-click the speaker icon on the taskbar. The Volume Control dialog
box opens.
If the device you want to adjust does not appear in the Volume Control
dialog box, select Options, then Properties. Select the audio device you
want to adjust, then click OK.
2Drag the volume level and balance sliders for the device you want to
adjust, then close the window. For more information about the volume
controls, select Help in the Volume Control dialog box.
Solo1200.book Page 86 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
87
Listening to music CDs
www.gateway.com
Listening to music CDs
The Windows Media Player turns your computer into a multimedia center.
Use the player to listen to Internet radio stations, play and copy your CDs,
look for Internet movies, and create lists of all media on your computer. For
more information about using the Windows Media Player, select Help.
To listen to a CD in the Windows Media Player:
■Insert a CD into the CD drive. The Windows Media Player opens and the
CD plays.
If the Windows Media Player does not open automatically when you
insert the CD, open it from the Start menu by clicking Start, then selecting
Programs, then Windows Media Player. When the media player opens, click
(play).
Play/
Pause Stop Sound
Controls Tra ck
Controls
Solo1200.book Page 87 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
88
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Recording and playing audio
Use the instructions below to make an audio recording by speaking into the
microphone.
To make an audio recording:
1Plug a microphone into the microphone jack. For the location of the jack,
see “Right” on page 4
2Click Start, then select Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then Sound
Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.
3Click (record), then speak into the microphone.
4When you finish recording, click (stop).
5Select File, then Save As. The Save As dialog box opens.
6Name the recording, specify the path, then click Save. The recording is
saved.
HelpSpot For more information on recording and playing audio,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Rewind Fast
Forward Play Stop Record
Solo1200.book Page 88 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
89
Recording and playing audio
www.gateway.com
To play an audio recording in Sound Recorder:
1Open the Sound Recorder.
2Select File, then Open. The Open dialog box opens.
3Select the file you want to play, then click Open.
4Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by clicking
(stop).
Solo1200.book Page 89 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
90
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Playing audio and video files with
Windows Media Player
The Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files,
including WAV, MIDI, MP3, AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. For more
information about using the Windows Media Player, select Help.
To play a file using the Windows Media Player:
1Click Start, then select Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then
Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.
2Select File, then Open. The Open dialog box opens.
3Select the file you want to play, then click Open.
4Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by clicking
(stop).
For more information about the Windows Media Player, select Help.
Video file
information
Video
screen
Play/Pause Stop
Solo1200.book Page 90 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
91
Using MusicMatch
www.gateway.com
Using MusicMatch
Using the MusicMatch™ program, you can:
■Play music CDs
■Create MP3 music files from your music CDs
■Use your music files to build a music library
■Enter music track information
■Listen to Internet Radio
Playing CDs
You can use the MusicMatch program to play music CDs.
To play a music CD:
1Double-click the musicmatch JUKEBOX icon on your desktop. MusicMatch
opens.
2Insert the music CD into the CD drive on your computer, then click the
CD tab. The names of the music tracks appear in the playlist area.
3Click (play).
HelpSpot For more information on using MusicMatch, double-click
the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 91 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
92
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Creating music files
Using MusicMatch, you can copy the tracks from a music CD to your
computer’s hard drive as MP3 files.
Here are some terms that you need to know before you get started:
■Bit rate is the number of bits required to store one second of music.
CD quality is 128 kilobits per second. A high bit rate gives you better
sound quality but the file size is also larger. For information about
changing the sound quality settings, see the online help in MusicMatch.
■MP3 (MPEG Layer 3) is a standard for digitally compressing high-fidelity
music into compact files without noticeably sacrificing quality. MP3 files
end in the file extension .MP3.
■Ripping is the process of copying a music track from a music CD and
storing it on your computer’s hard drive.
To create (rip) MP3 files:
1Double-click the musicmatch JUKEBOX icon.
2Insert a CD into the CD drive, then click (record). The Recorder
window opens.
3In the Recorder window, select the tracks you want to record, then
click (record). The tracks that you selected are copied as MP3 files to
your computer’s hard drive.
Solo1200.book Page 92 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
93
Using MusicMatch
www.gateway.com
Editing track information
After you add a CD track as an MP3 file to your music library, you can edit
the track’s information.
To edit track information:
1In MusicMatch, click Music Library. The Music Library window opens.
2In the Music Library window, right-click the file, then select Edit Track
Tag. The Edit Track Tag dialog box opens.
3Enter information such as track title, lead artist, album, and genre.
4Click OK. The new track information is displayed in the MusicMatch
playlist, music library, and recorder.
Solo1200.book Page 93 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
94
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Building a music library
Use MusicMatch to build a music library. You can organize your music tracks
by categories, find a track quickly by using the sort features, and add
information to a music file.
You can add music tracks to your music library by:
■Creating MP3 files – When you create MP3 files from the tracks on your
music CD, MusicMatch automatically adds these files to your music
library.
■Dragging and Dropping – Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer
or your desktop to the music library.
■Downloading files from the Internet – When you are connected to the
Internet, MP3 files that you download are automatically added to your
music library.
Solo1200.book Page 94 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
95
Using MusicMatch
www.gateway.com
Changing the music library display settings
To change the music library display settings:
1In MusicMatch, select Options, then Settings. The Settings window opens.
2Click the Music Library tab.
3Select the categories that you want to display in the columns, then
click OK.
Solo1200.book Page 95 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
96
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Listening to Internet radio
Use the Radio feature in MusicMatch to listen to Internet Radio stations.
To listen to an Internet radio station:
1Connect to the Internet, then in MusicMatch, click Radio Stations.
The Radio window opens.
Solo1200.book Page 96 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
97
Using MusicMatch
www.gateway.com
2To select one of the MusicMatch Internet radio stations, select one of the
Popular Stations. You can also choose another Internet radio station by
clicking Broadcast Radio. A window opens that lists radio stations by
music format, city, or country.
3Select a radio station, then click Play. MusicMatch connects to the station.
Using advanced features
You can also use MusicMatch to create your own music CDs and to download
MP3 files to your portable MP3 player. See the online Help that came with
MusicMatch.
Solo1200.book Page 97 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
98
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia
www.gateway.com
Solo1200.book Page 98 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
99
7
www.gateway.com
Sending and
Receiving
Faxes
PhoneTools lets you send and receive faxes using the modem.
After you have created a document using a spreadsheet, word processor, or
graphics program, you can send it as a fax. You can also receive faxes on your
notebook. This chapter shows you how to:
■Set up a fax cover page
■Create and send a new fax
■Fax a document you created in another program
■Receive, view, and print a fax
Solo1200.book Page 99 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
100
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes
www.gateway.com
Setting up your cover page
Before you send your first fax, you need to set up your user information. Your
fax cover sheets and fax headers will contain this information, which is
required by law.
To set up your fax cover page:
1If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, then select Programs, PhoneTools,
then PhoneTools.
2Select Setup, then select General Setup. The General Setup dialog box
opens.
3Click the Customize tab, then type your personal information in the User
boxes.
HelpSpot For more information on setting up a fax cover page,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 100 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
101
Setting up your cover page
www.gateway.com
4Click the Fax tab, then enter your name and fax number in the Fax
identifier text box. This identifier information is required by law. You can
enter up to 20 characters in the text box. We suggest using eight
characters for your identifier name, followed by 12 characters for your
telephone number.
5Click OK.
6If you want to change the logo that appears on the cover page, select
Setup, then select Logo Management. The Logo Management dialog box
opens.
Important Some fax machines cannot use special characters such
as hyphens. We suggest using spaces instead of hyphens
in telephone and fax numbers.
Import
button Clear
button
Solo1200.book Page 101 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
102
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes
www.gateway.com
7If you do not want the PhoneTools logo on your cover page, click the
picture then click the clear button.
- OR -
If you want to replace the PhoneTools logo with one of your own, click
the import button then select a picture for the logo. The picture must
be saved in a supported format (.BMP, .DGR, .GIF, .JPG, .PCX, .T31, or
.TIF) and be small enough to fit in the logo box.
8Click OK.
Solo1200.book Page 102 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
103
Sending a fax
www.gateway.com
Sending a fax
To send a fax:
1If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, then select Programs, PhoneTools,
then PhoneTools.
2Click Send Fax. The Send Fax Wizard opens.
HelpSpot For more information on sending a fax, double-click the
HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 103 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
104
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes
www.gateway.com
3Enter the recipient’s name, company (if applicable), and fax number, then
click Next.
4Type the message text in the Message Text area.
5Select a cover page template from the Template list, then click Next. If you
typed a message in the Message Text area, you must select a cover page.
6If you want to attach a file, make sure the file is not open, then click
(browse), select the file, then click Open.
7Click Next, then click Finish. The Confirm Transmissions dialog box
opens.
8Click Send. PhoneTools dials the fax number and sends your fax.
Solo1200.book Page 104 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
105
Sending a fax
www.gateway.com
Faxing from programs
To fax a document directly from most programs:
1In the program with the document open, select File, then select Print. The
Print dialog box opens.
2Select the printer CAPTURE FAX BVRP, then click OK. The Send Fax Wizard
opens.
3Complete the wizard as instructed in “Sending a fax” on page 103.
HelpSpot For more information on sending a fax directly from a
program, double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 105 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
106
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes
www.gateway.com
Receiving and viewing a fax
To receive and view a fax:
1If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, then select Programs, PhoneTools,
then PhoneTools.
When PhoneTools is open, it detects incoming faxes and stores them in
the In Box.
2To view a fax, click Fax Inbox, then double-click the fax you want to view.
The fax viewer opens, where you can view and print the fax.
HelpSpot For more information on receiving a fax, double-click the
HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Important Your notebook cannot detect incoming faxes while in the
Standby power-saving mode. For information on changing
power-saving settings, see “Changing automatic power
settings” on page 113.
Solo1200.book Page 106 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
107
8
www.gateway.com
Managing
Power
While your notebook is running on battery power, you should manage power
consumption to get the most use out of the battery. This chapter shows you
how to:
■Check and recharge the battery
■Change batteries
■Extend the life of the battery by conserving battery power and using
alternate power sources
■Change power-saving settings
Solo1200.book Page 107 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
108
Chapter 8: Managing Power
www.gateway.com
Monitoring the battery charge
Closely monitor the battery charge. When the battery charge gets low, change
the battery or connect to AC power immediately to prevent losing any
unsaved work.
Monitor the battery charge by:
■Positioning the cursor over the power cord icon or battery icon in the
taskbar. A battery status window opens. Move the cursor away from the
icon to close the window.
■Pressing FN+STATUS to view the Status display, which opens in the upper
left corner of the screen. The Status display shows the current power
source, the battery charge, and the power management mode.
■Looking at the battery charge indicator:
■A green light indicates the battery is fully charged
■An orange light indicates the battery is being charged
■A red light indicates the battery is low
■An orange, blinking light indicates the battery is malfunctioning
■A red, blinking light indicates the battery is critically low
■Waiting for these other low battery warnings:
■The battery charge indicator turning red and blinking
■A Low Battery message
If your battery charge indicators display what looks like an inaccurate charge,
you may need to recalibrate the battery. For more information, see
“Recalibrating the battery” on page 177.
Recharging the battery
The battery recharges while it is installed and your notebook is connected to
AC power. While the battery is recharging, the battery indicator light is
orange.
Solo1200.book Page 108 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
109
Changing batteries
www.gateway.com
Changing batteries
Your notebook must be plugged into AC or turned off while changing the
batteries.
To replace the main battery:
1If your notebook is on, save all work and turn the power off.
2Close the cover.
3Turn your notebook over.
4Slide the battery release latch to release the battery.
Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the Gateway Solo 1200 NiMH battery.
Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.
The battery used in this device may present a fire or
chemical burn hazard if mishandled. Do not disassemble,
heat above 212°F (100°C), or incinerate. Dispose of used
battery promptly. Keep away from children.
Solo1200.book Page 109 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
110
Chapter 8: Managing Power
www.gateway.com
5Hold the latch forward and lift the battery straight out from the
notebook.
6Slide the recharged battery into the bay and snap it into place.
7Open the notebook and press the power button.
Solo1200.book Page 110 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
111
Extending battery life
www.gateway.com
Extending battery life
Conserving battery power
While using the battery to power your notebook, conserve power by:
■Removing PC Cards when you do not need them. Many PC Cards use a
small amount of power while inserted, even if they are not being used.
■Modifying the Power Management settings for maximum power savings.
For more information, see “Changing automatic power settings” on
page 113.
■Closing the display panel to turn off the display while you are not using
your notebook. The display stays off until you open the panel again.
■Using Hibernate mode for maximum power savings while the notebook
is not in use. For more information, see “To use Hibernate mode:” on
page 117.
■Using the CD drive only when necessary. CD drives use a large amount
of power.
■Recharge the battery often, take an extra battery, and fully recharge the
batteries before traveling. For more information, see “Recharging the
battery” on page 108 and “Changing batteries” on page 109.
Using alternate power sources
To extend battery life, use alternate power sources whenever possible.
■If traveling internationally, take electrical adapters. Save the battery for
times when you cannot use an AC adapter. If you plan on taking your
AC adapter, also take a single-plug power surge protector.
■If you will have access to an EmPower™ in-flight power receptacle or an
automobile cigarette lighter, use an airplane/automobile power adapter.
Save the battery for times when you cannot use a power adapter.
■To find AC power outlets in airports, look for them next to support pillars,
in large areas such as boarding gates, and under banks of telephones.
Solo1200.book Page 111 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
112
Chapter 8: Managing Power
www.gateway.com
Changing power modes
You can use the following power modes to lengthen the life of your notebook’s
battery:
■Standby - while your notebook is on standby, it switches to a low power
state where devices, such as the LCD screen and drives, turn off.
■Hibernate - (also called save to disk) writes all current memory (RAM)
information to the hard drive, then turns your notebook completely off.
The next time you turn on the notebook, it reads the memory
information from the hard drive and opens the programs and documents
that were open when you activated Hibernate. For more information on
using Hibernate mode, see “To use Hibernate mode:” on page 117.
Using Standby mode
Always save your work before using the Standby mode. Once in Standby, your
computer reduces or turns the power off to most devices except memory.
However, the information in the memory is not saved to the hard drive. If
power is interrupted, the information is lost.
The table below shows how to use Standby mode.
If your
computer is... ...and you
want to... ...then
Off Start up Press the power button.
On Enter
Standby mode Press FN+STANDBY.
In
Standby mode Exit
Standby mode Press the power button.
On Shut down Click Start, then select Shut Down,
Shut down, then click OK.
Solo1200.book Page 112 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
113
Extending battery life
www.gateway.com
Changing automatic power settings
You can change the function of the power button, Standby key, and
power-saving timers by changing power settings on your notebook.
You can customize power settings from the Windows Control Panel by
selecting power schemes, setting power alarms, adjusting advanced power
settings, and turning on Hibernate mode.
Power schemes (groups of power settings) let you change power-saving options
such as when the monitor or hard drive is automatically turned off. You can
select one of the defined power schemes or create a custom power scheme.
Alarms can alert you when the battery charge is low.
Advanced power settings let you assign different power-saving modes to the
power button and Standby key. You can also select which power-saving mode
is activated when you close the LCD panel.
Solo1200.book Page 113 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
114
Chapter 8: Managing Power
www.gateway.com
To change the power scheme
1Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel
window opens. If you do not see the Power Options icon, click view all
Control Panel options.
2Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog
box opens.
3Select a power scheme from the Power Schemes list.
- OR -
Set the timers for System stand by, Turn off monitor, and Turn off hard disks,
then save your custom power scheme by clicking Save As and typing in
a name for the scheme.
4Save the changes by clicking OK.
Solo1200.book Page 114 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
115
Extending battery life
www.gateway.com
To change the alarm options:
1Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel
window opens. If you do not see the Power Options icon, click view all
Control Panel options.
2Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog
box opens.
3Click the Alarms tab.
4Adjust the alarm settings, then save the changes by clicking OK.
Solo1200.book Page 115 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
116
Chapter 8: Managing Power
www.gateway.com
To change advanced power management settings:
1Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel
window opens. If you do not see the Power Options icon, click view all
Control Panel options.
2Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog
box opens.
3Click the Advanced tab.
4Select a power-saving mode to be activated by closing the lid or pressing
the power button, then save the changes by clicking OK.
Solo1200.book Page 116 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
117
Extending battery life
www.gateway.com
To use Hibernate mode:
1Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel
window opens. If you do not see the Power Options icon, click view all
Control Panel options.
2Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog
box opens.
3Click the Hibernate tab.
4Select the Enable hibernate support check box, then click Apply. Hibernate
mode is now an option you can select on the Advanced tab and in the
Shut Down menu.
5To use Hibernate as a power-saving mode, click the Advanced tab, select
Hibernate as one of the advanced power settings, then save the changes
by clicking OK.
6To manually activate Hibernate mode, click Start, then select Shut Down,
then Hibernate, then click OK.
Solo1200.book Page 117 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
118
Chapter 8: Managing Power
www.gateway.com
Solo1200.book Page 118 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
119
9
www.gateway.com
Travel Tips
These tips can make traveling with your notebook more convenient and
trouble-free. This chapter provides information on:
■Using the modem
■Using your radio frequency wireless connections
■Transferring files
■Protecting your notebook from loss and theft
■Managing your notebook’s power efficiently
Tips & Tricks To access the contents of this manual while you are
traveling, download an electronic copy from
www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
Solo1200.book Page 119 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
120
Chapter 9: Travel Tips
www.gateway.com
Modem
■Take a telephone cord to connect the modem to telephone jacks. If you
are traveling internationally, take telephone jack adapters or an acoustic
handset coupler.
■Take a telephone line protector.
■Take a telephone line tester to check for unsafe lines, especially if you
are traveling internationally.
■Take remote access information with you so you can connect to your ISP
while outside of your usual calling area. A list of country dialing codes
may be especially useful if you are traveling internationally.
■Download entire Web sites that you frequently visit for off-line viewing
if you will be traveling for extended periods without access to an Internet
connection.
Radio frequency wireless
connections
■Every country has different restrictions on the use of wireless devices. If
your system is equipped with a wireless device, when traveling between
countries with your system, check with the local Radio Approval
authorities prior to your trip for any restrictions on the use of a wireless
device in the destination country.
■If your system came equipped with an internal embedded wireless device,
see “Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information” on page 215 for general
wireless regulatory guidelines.
■Wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial
aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned
off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11b (also known as wireless
Ethernet or Wifi) and Bluetooth communication devices are examples of
devices which use wireless to communicate.
Solo1200.book Page 120 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
121
Files
www.gateway.com
Files
■Copy your working files from your desktop computer to your notebook
before you travel.
■If you need to access your desktop computer files from your notebook
while traveling, set up the desktop computer for remote access.
■Take extra diskettes for transferring files between computers and backing
up files.
Security
■Get a locking cable for your notebook so you can attach a cable lock and
leave the notebook in your hotel room while you are away.
■Always keep your notebook with you while waiting in airports, train
stations, or bus terminals. Be ready to claim your notebook as soon as it
passes through the x-ray machine in security checkpoints.
■Write down your notebook model number and serial number (available
on the system label) in case of theft or loss, and keep the information
in a safe place. Also, tape your business card or an address label to your
notebook and accessories.
■Whoever sits next to you or behind you can see your notebook display.
Avoid working with confidential files until you can be sure of privacy.
■Use a startup password to restrict access to your notebook.
Important Use a password that you can remember, but that is difficult
for someone else to guess. The password feature is very
secure, with no easy way to recover a forgotten password.
If you forget your password, you must return your notebook
to Gateway for service. Call Gateway Technical Support for
instructions.
Solo1200.book Page 121 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
122
Chapter 9: Travel Tips
www.gateway.com
To create a startup password:
1Restart your notebook. As soon as you see a startup screen, press F2.
The BIOS Setup utility opens.
2Click Security, then select Set Admin password and follow the
instructions.
3Click Security, then select Set User password and follow the
instructions. This is the password you need to enter at startup.
4Exit the BIOS Setup utility by clicking Exit, then selecting Save and
Exit.
5Click OK. When you start your computer, you are prompted to enter
the user password you set in Step 3.
Power
To get the best performance from your notebook, avoid using the battery
whenever possible, monitor the battery charge, and use the most efficient
power management settings.
■For information on conserving battery power, see “Conserving battery
power” on page 111.
■For information on using alternate power sources, see “Using alternate
power sources” on page 111.
■For information on monitoring the battery charge, see “Monitoring the
battery charge” on page 108.
Solo1200.book Page 122 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
123
10
www.gateway.com
Customizing
Your Notebook
This chapter provides information about customizing your computer by
changing settings in Windows or the system BIOS.
You can:
■Change screen and display settings
■Change the background and screen saver
■Adjust the touchpad settings
■Program the multi-function buttons on the keyboard
■Allocate system memory
Solo1200.book Page 123 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM
124
Chapter 10: Customizing Your Notebook
www.gateway.com
Adjusting the screen and desktop
settings
Adjusting the color depth and screen area are two of the most basic display
settings you may need to change. You can also adjust settings such as the
screen background and screen saver.
Adjusting the color depth
Color depth is the number of colors your LCD displays. Various image types
require various color depths for optimum appearance on your LCD. For
example, simple color drawings may appear adequately in 256 colors while
color photographs need millions of colors to be displayed with optimum
quality.
Windows lets you choose from several color depth settings for your LCD. We
recommend that the 32-bit True Color setting be used at all times.
If the color in your images seems “false” or “jumpy,” especially after you have
played a game or run a video-intensive program, check the color depth setting
and return it to 32-bit True Color, if necessary.
To change the color depth:
1Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel
window opens.
2Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties window
opens.
HelpSpot For more information on adjusting the color depth,
double-click the HelpSpot icon on your desktop.
Solo1200.book Page 124 Friday, May 25, 2001 10:48 AM