Creative Labs AVPSB0950 Sound Blaster X-FI Notebook User Manual

Creative Labs Inc Sound Blaster X-FI Notebook

user manual

Regulatory Information  The following sections contain notices for various countries:  CAUTION: This product is intended for use with FCC/CE certified computer equipment. Please check the equipment operating/installation manual and/or with the equipment manufacturer to verify/confirm if your equipment is suitable prior to the installation or use of the product.  Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Interference Statement  FCC Part 15: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:  Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:  1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. CAUTION: To comply with the limits of the Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules, this device must be installed with computer equipment certified to comply with Class B limits.  All cables used to connect to the computer and peripherals must be shielded and grounded. Operation with non-certified computers or non-shielded cables may results in interference to radio or television reception.  MODIFICATION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user's authority to operate the device.  Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Radiation Exposure Statement This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. For body operation, Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook has been tested and meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines when used directly against the body. Specific Absorption Rate, or SAR is a measurement of radio frequency energy. The FCC permits a maximum SAR value of 1.6 mW/g. The highest SAR value for this product when used on the body, as described in this user guide, is 0.292 mW/g.  California Proposition 65 Statement  WARNING: Handling this product may expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.  Explanatory Note: California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (Proposition 65) requires special product labeling for products containing certain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Creative has chosen to provide a warning based on its knowledge about the presence of one or more listed chemicals without attempting to evaluate the level of exposure. With Creative's products, the exposure may be below the Proposition 65 level of concern, or could even be zero. However, out of an abundance of caution, Creative has elected to place Page 1 of 2Regulatory Information13/6/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hh24FE.htm
the Proposition 65 warning on its products.   Déclaration de la Proposition 65 de la Californie  AVERTISSEMENT: La manipulation de ce produit peut vous exposer à des produits chimiques qui sont reconnus par l'État de la Californie comme pouvant provoquer le cancer, des anomalies congénitales ou d'autres effets nuisibles à la reproduction. Veuillez vous laver les mains après l'avoir manipuler.  Note explicative: La Proposition 65 (California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986) de la Californie sur les matières dangereuses et l'eau potable exige un étiquetage spécial pour les produits contenant certains produits chimiques qui sont reconnus par l'État de la Californie comme pouvant provoquer le cancer, des anomalies congénitales ou d'autres effets nuisibles à la reproduction. Creative a choisi d'inclure une mise en garde s'appuyant sur sa connaissance de la présence d'un ou de plusieurs de ces produits chimiques sans essayer d'en évaluer le niveau d'exposition. Pour les produits de Creative, le niveau d'exposition peut être inférieur au niveau critique établi par la Proposition 65 ou même être nul. Néanmoins, par souci extrême de prudence, Creative a choisi de placer l'avertissement de la Proposition 65 sur ses produits.  Notice for Canada  This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  CANADIAN CLASS B STATEMENT: This digital device does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital Apparatus," ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.  Cet appareil numerique respecte les limites de bruits radioelectriques applicables aux appareils numeriques de Classe B prescrites dans la norme sur le materiel brouilleur: "Appareils Numeriques," NMB-003 edictee par le ministre des Communications.  MODIFICATION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user's authority to operate the device.  Toute modification non approuvée explicitement par le fournisseur de licence de l'appareil peut entraîner l'annulation du droit de l'utilisateur à utiliser l'appareil.  European Compliance  This product conforms to the following:  General Product Safety Directive 2001/95/EC.  EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.  Mains operated products for the European market comply with Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC.  Communication / RF wireless products for the European market comply with R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC.  CAUTION: To comply with the Europe CE requirement, this device must be installed with CE certified computer equipment which meet with Class B limits.  All cables used to connect this device must be shielded, grounded and no longer than 3m in length. Operation with non-certified computers or incorrect cables may result in interference to other devices or undesired effects to the product.  MODIFICATION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Creative Technology Limited or one of its affiliated companies could void the user's warranty and guarantee rights.  Page 2 of 2Regulatory Information13/6/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hh24FE.htm
How to use this manual  This document is designed to provide you with direct access to vital product knowledge. You can resize the document window, print this document and access linked web sites.  To jump to a linked topic or web site:  Click the underlined blue text, or the hand   symbol whenever it appears.  To print portions of this document:  1. On the Contents tabbed page to your left, click a topic heading.  2. On the Menu, click the Print   button.  3. In the dialog box that appears, click the option to print one topic only, or all topics under a heading, then click the OK button.  Introduction  Congratulations on your purchase of Creative's audio revolution for notebooks, Sound Blaster® X-FiTM Notebook! With cutting edge technology from the leaders in PC audio, Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook will give you years of reliable entertainment on your ExpressCardTM-enabled notebook.  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is also capable of streaming music wirelessly to supported devices and control them using the software provided. For a list of supported devices, visit www.x-fi.com.  This User's Guide contains software installation and usage information for your audio device.  What is ExpressCard?  This technology is the latest standard in expansion modules for your computer. ExpressCard modules are lighter, thinner and faster than the older PCMCIA modules, and can be inserted or taken out without turning off your computer.  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is an ExpressCard module that takes advantage of your computer's PCI Express® and USB 2.0 capabilities. ExpressCard modules also use less power, saving your notebook batteries for critical tasks.  System Requirements  Minimum Requirements  Microsoft® Windows Vista® 64-bit with Service Pack 1 (SP1), Windows Vista 32-bit with SP1, Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition, Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) or Service Pack 3 (SP3), Windows XP Media Center Edition (MCE) 2004 or later  Intel® Pentium® M, Intel CoreTM, AMD TurionTM series or equivalent mobile processor 1.66 GHz, or faster  Intel, AMD® or 100% compatible motherboard chipset  For Windows Vista: 512 MB RAM (1 GB RAM recommended)  For Windows XP: 256 MB RAM  600 MB of free hard disk space  Available ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 slot  CD-ROM/CD-RW or DVD-ROM drive required for software installation  Additional Requirements (where applicable)  DVD-Video  6x or faster DVD-ROM drive  DVD player software such as InterVideo® WinDVD® or CyberLink® PowerDVDTM (latest version recommended) installed  Headphones or amplified speakers (optional)  Page 1 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
Notes  Other applications may have higher system requirements. Refer to the applications' documentation for details.  More Help  Visit www.soundblaster.com/X-Fi for the latest news and products for X-Fi and Sound Blaster. The site also includes information on making purchases, technical help, and the latest driver updates.  Using Creative Software AutoUpdate  Locating, downloading, and installing updates for your Creative products is now simpler and faster with the web-based Creative Software AutoUpdate system.  When you connect to Creative Software AutoUpdate via the Internet, the web site will analyze your computer system to determine what operating system (OS), language, and Creative products are installed in your system.  After the online analysis, you will be able to select from a list of only the most relevant software and driver updates. The files will then be retrieved and installed on your system for you.  To learn more about Creative Software AutoUpdate, go to www.soundblaster.com/support.  Notes  First-time users of Creative Software AutoUpdate may be prompted to authorize the download of a browser component required for system inspection. Ensure that the content is signed by Creative Labs, Inc., then click the Yes button.  Ensure that all your Creative products are connected and installed on the same computer running Creative Software AutoUpdate.  About Your Hardware  Refer to the Quick Start leaflet for instructions on installing your audio device.  To learn more about your product, consult the following sections:  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook  Notes  Actual products may differ slightly from those shown in this chapter.  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook  Your audio device has the jacks and connectors below to enable the attachment of a wide variety of devices. It also includes the following features:   Connectivity or Features   Description  Page 2 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
Installing and Uninstalling Software  To take full advantage of your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook, you need to install device drivers and applications. At times, you may also need to uninstall or reinstall some or all of the device drivers and applications to correct problems, change configurations, or upgrade outdated drivers or applications. To learn how to do so in all supported Windows operating systems, consult the following sections:  Installing Drivers and Applications  Reinstalling Drivers and Applications  Uninstalling Drivers and Applications  Installing/Uninstalling Selected Drivers and Applications  Installing Drivers and Applications  Ensure that your audio device is installed before proceeding. For instructions on installing your audio device, consult your Quick Start leaflet.  After you have installed your audio device into the ExpressCard slot, turn on your notebook. Windows automatically detects your audio device and searches for device drivers.  For Windows Vista  1. Insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive. Your CD should start automatically. If it does not, follow the steps below:  i. Click Start   Computer.  ii. Right-click the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive icon, and then click Open Autoplay. 2. To complete the installation, follow the instructions on the screen. 3. When prompted, restart your notebook. For Windows XP  When prompted for the audio drivers, click the Cancel button.  1. Insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive. Your CD should start automatically. If it does not, follow the steps below:  i. Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop. Alternatively, click Start   My Computer.  ii. Right-click the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive icon, and then click Autoplay.  2. To complete the installation, follow the instructions on the screen.  3. When prompted, restart your notebook.  Reinstalling Drivers and Applications  For Windows Vista  1. Click Start   Control Panel   Uninstall a program.  2. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.  1.   Microphone In/Line In jack  Connects to line-level sources (for example, MP3 players) or microphones with a 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.  2.   Headphone/Line Out jack  Connects to the Front Left and Front Right inputs on powered analog speakers or stereo headphones with a 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.  3.   Connect LED button  Lights up green when wireless streaming is enabled and ready. Flashes green when button is pressed to indicate pairing with a wireless receiver or other supported device.  4.   Power LED   Lights up blue when Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is connected to your notebook and turned on.  Page 3 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
3. Click the Uninstall/Change button. If the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.  4. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Repair option. When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive, and click the OK button.  5. To repair an application, select the application check box.  6. Click the Yes button.  7. When prompted, restart your notebook.  For Windows XP  1. Click Start   Control Panel.  2. Double-click the Add or Remove Programs icon.  3. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.  4. Click the Change/Remove button.  5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Repair option. When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive, and click the OK button.  6. To repair an application, select the application check box.  7. Click the Yes button.  8. When prompted, restart your notebook.  After you have completed the steps above, you can check your notebook to see if the reinstalled software works properly.  Uninstalling Drivers and Applications  Before you begin, close all running audio applications. Applications that are still running during uninstallation will not be removed.  For Windows Vista  1. Click Start   Control Panel   Uninstall a program.  2. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.  3. Click the Uninstall/Change button. If the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.  4. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Remove All option.  5. Click the Yes button.  6. When prompted, restart your notebook.  For Windows XP  1. Click Start   Control Panel.  2. Double-click the Add or Remove Programs icon.  3. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.  4. Click the Change/Remove button.  5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Remove All option.  6. Click the Yes button.  7. When prompted, restart your notebook.  After you have completed the steps above, you can install the original or updated device drivers and applications for Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook. For instructions on installing the software, consult Installing Drivers and Applications.  Installing/Uninstalling Selected Drivers and Applications  Page 4 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
For Windows Vista  1. Click Start   Control Panel   Uninstall a program.  2. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.  3. Click the Uninstall/Change button. If the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.  4. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Add option to add new software components to your existing installation, or the Remove option to remove previously installed software components from your system.  5. To install or uninstall an application, select the application check box.  6. Click the Next button. When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive, and click the OK button.  7. When prompted, restart your notebook.  For Windows XP  1. Click Start   Control Panel.  2. Double-click the Add or Remove Programs icon.  3. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.  4. Click the Change/Remove button.  5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Add option to add new software components to your existing installation, or the Remove option to remove previously installed software components from your system.  6. To install or uninstall an application, select the application check box.  7. Click the Next button. When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive, and click the OK button.  8. When prompted, restart your notebook.  Connecting Speakers and Headphones  You can connect speakers and headphones to Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook. Alternatively, you can also play audio through your onboard speakers. To learn how to do so, consult the following sections:  Connecting Headphones and Headsets  Connecting Analog Speaker Systems  Enabling Audio Playback Through Onboard Notebook Speakers  To enjoy an optimal audio experience, use Entertainment Mode to select the correct speakers or headphones setting and enable X-Fi CMSS-3D.  Notes  Actual products may differ slightly from those shown in this chapter.  Select the correct speaker setup or headphone option in Entertainment Mode to get the best experience.  The cables shown in this chapter may be bundled with your peripheral or are available separately from www.creative.com.  For more information on the Creative peripherals mentioned in this chapter, visit www.creative.com.  Connecting Headphones and Headsets  Do not listen to audio on your headphones or headset at high volumes for prolonged periods of time as hearing loss might result.  For headphones: Page 5 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
 For headsets:  Notes  Use an adapter if the plug comes in a different size.  Connecting Analog Speaker Systems  You can connect 2.1 analog speaker systems to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  Connectivity or Cable  Description  1.   Headphone/Line Out jack  Connects to stereo headphones with a 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.   Jack, Connector or Cable  Description  1.   Microphone In/Line In jack   Connects to the 3.50mm (1/8-inch) microphone plug of your headset.  2.   Headphone/Line Out jack   Connects to the 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) headphone plug of your headset.  Page 6 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
 Enabling Audio Playback Through Onboard Notebook Speakers  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook supports playback through notebook speakers when headphones or external speakers are not connected.  To enable playback through notebook speakers  1. Disconnect any earphones, headphones or speakers connected to Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  2. Launch Entertainment Mode console.  3. Click the Playback through Notebook Speakers   button.  4. Select the Enable audio playback through Notebook Speakers check box.  Adjusting onboard speaker volume  Onboard speaker volume is determined by both your onboard audio device and Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  To set the playback volume:  For Windows Vista  1. Launch the Microsoft Volume Mixer panel.  2. Click the Device tab and select Speakers for your onboard audio device.  3. Adjust the Speakers slider to the desired level.  4. Repeat steps 2 and 3, select Speakers for Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook, and adjust the Speakers slider to the desired level.  For Window XP   Connectivity or Cable  1.   Headphone/Line Out jack  2.   2 channel audio cable (available separately)  3.   Audio Input jack  Page 7 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
1. Launch the Microsoft Volume Control panel.  2. Click Options   Properties.  3. Under Mixer device, select your onboard audio device.  4. Under Adjust volume for, select the Playback option.  5. Click the OK button.  6. Adjust the Volume Control slider to the desired level.  7. Repeat steps 2 - 6, select Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook under Mixer device, and adjust the Volume Control slider to the desired level.  Notes  Your onboard audio device must be enabled.  Using Your Sound Blaster X-Fi  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook works seamlessly with many external devices to give you endless hours of listening, and music authoring pleasure. To learn more about these features and how to connect additional devices, consult the following sections:  Watching DVDs  Communicating with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)  Playing Games  Streaming Music Wirelessly  Playing/Recording Music  Creating Music  Notes  Actual products may differ slightly from those shown in this chapter.  The cables shown in this chapter may be bundled with your peripheral or are available separately from www.creative.com.  For more information on the Creative peripherals mentioned in this chapter, visit www.creative.com.  Watching DVDs  You can watch DVDs on your notebook by using a software DVD player. X-Fi CMSS-3D upmixes the audio output and enables you to enjoy amazing surround sound even over headphones or stereo speakers. To get an optimal audio experience with X-Fi CMSS-3D, configure your software DVD player for multichannel output if possible. For more information on configuring your software DVD player, consult the documentation of your player.  You can download the following software and codecs:  CyberLink PowerDVD player  MPEG-2 decoder  Dolby Digital decoding codec  DTS decoding codec  Your product model enables you to upgrade PowerDVD, and download its codec, in the following ways:  Click Start   Programs or All Programs  Creative  Get PowerDVD.  Notes  Additional charges may be incurred if you choose to upgrade PowerDVD and/or download codecs.  Communicating with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)  You can connect the supplied earset to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook to enjoy outstanding acoustic performance for your Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) applications like Skype®, or instant messaging applications like Yahoo!® Messenger.  Page 8 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
You can also use a headphones and microphone combination, or a headset with your audio device. For instructions on how to connect them, consult Connecting Headphones and Headsets.  Playing Games  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is equipped with Creative's cutting edge audio technologies and software to enhance the audio in your games. Playing games will be more exhilarating than ever before!  To learn more about the following audio technologies, visit www.soundblaster.com.  EAX ADVANCED HD  Make your games come alive with EAX® ADVANCED HDTM and immerse yourself in worlds that their creators envisioned!  Hear multiple audio effects being played simultaneously, and precise environment settings applied to them to create a life-like environment and heighten the sense of realism.  Each effect is also accurately positioned in its 3D environment, allowing you to tell where it is coming from relative to your location, and you will be able to discern where your teammates and enemies are using only these audio cues.  EAX ADVANCED HD is a weapon that will give you the competitive edge, especially in multiplayer games.  X-Fi CMSS-3D  Why settle for stereo when you can enjoy the pleasures of surround sound? Let X-Fi CMSS®-3D upmix your stereo audio content into multichannel content for playback over your stereo headphones, stereo or multichannel speakers, and put yourself in the center of the experience.  X-Fi Crystalizer  With X-Fi CrystalizerTM, your audio content is re-mastered in real-time to enhance the highs and lows to give you a greater dynamic range. Hear the difference and clarity in your audio content and enjoy the subtleties that were missing before!  Creative ALchemy  Creative ALchemy is a powerful tool that restores the audio for a DirectSound®3D game running on  Connectivity or Features  Description  1.   Microphone In/Line In jack   Connects to the 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) microphone plug of your earset.  2.   Headphone/Line Out jack   Connects to the 3.50mm (1/8-inch) earphone plug of your earset.  Page 9 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
Windows Vista to its former glory - in full surround sound with hardware accelerated audio mixing, sampling rate conversion and EAX effects.  Streaming Music Wirelessly  Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is capable of streaming music wirelessly to supported devices. For example, you can pair up one or more Creative wireless receivers, and control playback using the Broadcast and Zone features in Entertainment Mode to enjoy music throughout your house.  The Broadcast feature enables you to stream music to any number of wireless receivers and/or supported devices. It can be used without manual pairing. The Zone feature enables you to stream music to a maximum of four selected wireless receivers and/or supported devices. It requires manual pairing and each device is assigned to an available zone. You can also rename the four zones.  For a list of supported devices, visit www.x-fi.com.  To enable wireless streaming  1. Launch Entertainment Mode console.  2. Click the Wireless Music Control   button.  3. Select the Enable Wireless Music Control check box.  4. To play back music on all wireless receivers, select Broadcast. OR To play back music on selected receivers, select Zone. 5. If you wish to see the status of the Wireless Music Control settings when your notebook starts up, or Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is inserted into your notebook, select the Show Wireless Music Control status on startup check box.  Notes  Do not enable wireless streaming while travelling on an airplane.  The Entertainment Mode console automatically saves your wireless settings, you only need to configure it once.  Once you have enabled wireless streaming, select one of the following methods to pair Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook with a Creative wireless receiver.   Connectivity or Features   Description  1.   Connect LED button  Lights up green when wireless streaming is enabled and ready. Flashes green when button is pressed to indicate pairing with a wireless receiver or other supported device.  2.   Power LED   Lights up blue when Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is connected to your notebook and turned on.  Page 10 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
For auto pairing  1. Turn on your wireless receiver, it will automatically search for a signal from your audio device and establish a connection.  For manual pairing  1. Press the Connect LED button on your audio device. The LED flashes green.  2. Turn on your wireless receiver and press its Connect button, it will search for a signal from your audio device and establish a connection. The LED stops flashing.  Notes  While the LED is flashing, you have three minutes to pair a device. If you have not done so before the time is up, the LED stops flashing and you will have to press the Connect LED button again.  To erase all paired zones and reset settings to their factory default values, press and hold the Connect LED button for five seconds. It will flash twice and turn off for two seconds. You must also reset your wireless receiver or supported device. For instructions on how to do so, consult the documentation of the device.  Other supported devices may have different ways to initiate pairing. For details, consult the documentation of the device.  Playing/Recording Music  You can play music from, and/or record music to external devices (for example, MP3 players, Digital Audio Tape players/recorders and MiniDisc players/recorders) by connecting them to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  Playing music from external devices:  Connecting your MP3 player   Connectivity or Features   Description  Page 11 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
Connecting your DAT player  Connecting your MD player 1.   Microphone In/Line In jack   Connects to the Headphone jack on your playback device.  2.   2 channel audio cable (available separately)   Connects the playback device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  3.   Headphone jack   Connects to the Microphone In/Line In jack on your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.   Connectivity or Features   Description  1.   Microphone In/Line In jack   Connects to the Line Out jacks on your playback device.  2.   3.50mm (1/8-inch) stereo-to-RCA cable (available separately)  Connects the playback device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  3.   Line Out jacks   Connects to the Microphone In/Line In jack on your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  Page 12 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
 Recording music to external devices:  Connecting your DAT recorder   Connectivity or Features   Description  1.   Microphone In/Line In jack   Connects to the Headphone jack on your playback device.  2.   2 channel audio cable (available separately)   Connects the playback device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  3.   Headphone jack   Connects to the Microphone In/Line In jack on your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.   Connectivity or Features   Description  1.   Headphone/Line Out jack   Connects to the Line In jacks on your recording device.  Page 13 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
Connecting your MD recorder  Creating Music  You can set up a home music studio using your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  Put together your own productions consisting of multiple music tracks from a MIDI Synthesizer or an electric guitar. Alternatively, connect your electric guitar using a Pre-amp Box to the Microphone In/Line In jack (3.50 mm or 1/8-inch jack). Use a convertor if your Pre-amp Box comes with a larger connector, for example, a 6.35 mm (1/4-inch) connector. 2.   3.50mm (1/8-inch) stereo-to-RCA cable (available separately)  Connects the recording device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  3.   Line In jacks   Connects to the Headphone/Line Out jack on your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.   Connectivity or Features   Description  1.   Headphone/Line Out jack   Connects to the Line In jack on your recording device.  2.   2 channel audio cable (available separately)   Connects the recording device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  3.   Line In jack   Connects to the Headphone/Line Out jack on your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  Page 14 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
 Notes  Your audio device only supports dynamic and low-powered electret microphones.  Creative Software Suite  The following software is designed for you to access the basic as well as the advanced features of your audio device. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with their functions in order to make full use of the rich features of your audio device.  For more information on each application, refer to its online help. Depending on the application, you can do this by clicking   on the toolbar of the application, or selecting Help Topics from the Help menu.  Creative Software Suite  Audio Console  Console Launcher  Entertainment Mode  Creative ALchemy  Creative MediaSource  Creative Sound Blaster Plugin for Windows Media Center Edition  Volume Panel  Diagnostic and troubleshooting utilities  Diagnostics  Notes  The applications included with your audio device may differ from those described here. Your audio device may also come with third party applications.  Some applications are available for certain operating systems only.  Entertainment Mode  With Entertainment Mode, your audio device is optimized for movie soundtrack and music playback.  Connectivity or Features   Description  1.   Microphone In/Line In jack  Connects to line-level sources (for example, MP3 players) or microphones with a 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.  Page 15 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
 In the Entertainment Mode console, you can:  Select speakers/headphones configuration  1. Click the Speakers   button.  2. Select your Speaker System or Headphones from the drop down list.  Enable environment effects with EAX  1. Click the EAX Effects  button.  2. Select the Enable EAX Effects check box.  3. Select your desired environment effect.  4. Drag the Amount slider right or left to increase or decrease the amount of enhancement to apply.  Enhance playback with X-Fi CMSS-3D  1. Click the X-Fi CMSS-3D   button.  2. Select the Enable X-Fi CMSS-3D Headphone or Enable X-Fi CMSS-3D Virtual check box.  3. Drag the Stereo Envelopment slider up or down to adjust the upmix balance between the front and surround speakers.  4. For the most compelling upmix effect, drag the slider to its middle position, or click the arrow icon to revert to the default setting.  Enhance playback with X-Fi Crystalizer  1. Click the X-Fi Crystalizer   button.  2. Select the Enable X-Fi Crystalizer check box.  3. Drag the Amount slider right or left to increase or decrease the amount of enhancement to apply.  Adjust EQ settings  1. Click the EQ   button.  2. Select the Enable EQ check box.  3. Drag the Amount sliders up or down to increase or decrease the amount of enhancement to apply. Alternatively, you can also select a preset from the drop down list.  Adjust volume mixer settings  Page 16 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
1. Click the Mixer   button.  2. Drag the Amount sliders up or down to increase or decrease the volume of each component.  Adjust performance settings  1. Click the Performance   button.  2. Select the desired bit-depth from the drop down list.  3. Select the desired sampling rate from the drop down list.  Playback audio through onboard speakers  1. Click the Playback through Notebook Speakers   button.  2. Select the Enable audio playback through Notebook Speakers check box.  Control wireless music settings  1. Click the Wireless Music Control   button.  2. Select the Enable Wireless Music Control check box.  3. Select Broadcast or Zone  4. Select the Show Wireless Music Control status on startup check box.  General Specifications  Versatile Audio Features  Playback of up to 64 audio channels, each at an arbitrary sample rate  24-bit Analog-to-Digital conversion of analog inputs at 48 kHz sampling rate  16-bit Digital-to-Analog conversion of digital sources at 48 kHz to stereo output  16-bit Digital-to-Analog conversion of stereo digital sources at 48 kHz to stereo output  16-bit recording sampling rates: 8, 11.025, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz.  Notes  Depending on your system configuration, output sampling frequency may only be available at 48 kHz.  X-Fi CMSS-3D  X-Fi CMSS-3D Headphone: Provides a multichannel playback experience over headphones for all types of content  X-Fi CMSS-3D Virtual: Provides a multichannel playback experience over two loudspeakers for all types of content  Connectivity  Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook  Audio Inputs  One 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) stereo jack for Analog Line In or Microphone In  Audio Outputs  One 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) stereo jack for Analog Line Out or Headphones  Interfaces  Wireless transmitter to connect with supported wireless devices.  Troubleshooting  Page 17 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
This section provides solutions to problems you may encounter during installation or normal use. This includes:  Problems with Multiple Audio Devices  Problems with Sound  Problems with Sound and CD-ROMs  Problems with Wireless Features  If you have a technical problem with this product, you can consult our selfhelp tool "Knowledge Base" for online troubleshooting and solutions. Visit www.soundblaster.com/support.  Problems with Multiple Audio Devices  The onboard audio chipset seems to be in conflict with Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.  Disable your notebook's onboard audio chipset. See your notebook's motherboard documentation for details.  Problems with Sound  No sound from the headphones.  Check the following:  The headphones are connected to the Headphone jack.  In the Speakers tab of Audio Console, the Headphones option is selected in the Speaker/Headphone Selection box. OR In the speakers and headphone selection of Entertainment Mode, the Headphones option is selected.  No audio output when playing digital files such as .WAV, MIDI files or AVI clips.  Check the following:  The speakers' volume control knob, if any, is set at mid-range. Adjust the volume mixer settings in Entertainment Mode, if necessary.  The powered speakers or external amplifier are connected to the card's Headphone jack.  There is no hardware conflict between the card and a peripheral device.  The speakers and headphone selection in Entertainment Mode corresponds to your speaker or headphone configuration.  Problems with Sound and CD-ROMs  No audio output when playing audio CDs.  To solve this problem:  Enable digital CD playback (for Windows XP only):  1. Click Start   Settings   Control Panel or Start   Control Panel.  2. In the Control Panel dialog box, double-click the System icon.  3. In the System Properties dialog box, click the Hardware tab.  4. Click the Device Manager button.  5. Double-click the DVD/CD-ROM drives icon. Your computer drives appear.  6. Right-click the disk drive icon. A menu appears.  7. Click Properties.  8. In the Digital CD Playback box of the next dialog box, click the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device check box to select it.  Notes  Page 18 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm
This feature is enabled in Windows Vista by default.  Problems with Wireless Features  Electronic interference is occuring with other wireless devices.  Do the following:  Place your notebook away from your other devices (for example, wireless routers) that transmit wireless signals.  If you have two or more Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook units transmitting simultaneously, ensure that they are placed at least five meters apart to prevent inteference.  Place your notebook or wireless receivers away from large metal surfaces.  Music is not being transmitted to my paired devices.  Check the following:  Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook and your paired devices are turned on.  Under the Wireless Music Control setting of Entertainment Mode, the Enable Wireless Music Control checkbox is selected.  License and Copyright  Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Creative Technology Ltd. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose without the written permission of Creative Technology Ltd.  The Software License Agreement is found in a separate folder on the Installation and Applications CD.  Copyright © 2008 by Creative Technology Ltd. All rights reserved. Creative, the Creative logo, Sound Blaster, the Sound Blaster logo, X-Fi, the Sound Blaster X-Fi logo, Xtreme Fidelity, CMSS, Crystalizer and Creative MediaSource are trademarks or registered trademarks of Creative Technology Ltd. in the United States and/or other countries. Intel, Pentium and Intel Core are trademarks, or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. AMD and AMD Turion are trademarks, or registered trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, the Windows logo and Windows Vista are trademarks, or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories, Inc. DTS is a trademark of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. WinDVD is a registered trademark of InterVideo, Inc. CyberLink and PowerDVD are registered trademarks or trademarks of CyberLink Corp. PCI Express and PCIe are registered trademarks of PCI-SIG. All other products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.  This product is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents:  4,506,579; 4,699,038; 4,987,600; 5,013,105; 5,072,645; 5,111,727; 5,144,676; 5,170,369; 5,248,845; 5,298,671; 5,303,309; 5,317,104; 5,342,990; 5,430,244; 5,524,074; 5,596,644; 5,698,803; 5,698,807; 5,729,612; 5,748,747; 5,763,800; 5,790,837; 5,802,180; 6,405,163; 6,549,884; 6,577,736; 6,772,021; 6,798,889; 6,819,732; 6,858,790; 6,868,377; 6,917,686; 6,978,027; 7,099,482; 7,107,401; 7,149,314; 7,167,567; 7,219,194; 7,231,054.  Version 1.0  April 2008  Page 19 of 19How to use this manual17/4/2008file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

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