Quanta Computer 1400015318 Notebook PC w/ Internal 2.4 GHz Wireless Card User Manual Using Your Gateway Solo 1400

Quanta Computer Inc Notebook PC w/ Internal 2.4 GHz Wireless Card Using Your Gateway Solo 1400

Users Manual

          iContents1 Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Front   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Left Side   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Right Side   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Back  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Bottom  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Keyboard area  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Identifying your model  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Accessories  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Connecting the AC adapter  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Starting your notebook   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Waking up your notebook  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Switching user accounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Status indicators   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Using the keyboard  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Keys   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21System key combinations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Multi-function buttons   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Using the EZ Pad touchpad   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Using the touchpad  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Connecting the modem  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Connecting to an Ethernet network   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Broadband Internet connections  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31HelpSpot   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32HelpSpot Videos  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Online help   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Gateway Web site  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 364 Windows Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37About the Windows environment   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Using the desktop  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Using the Start menu   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
ii          Identifying Window items   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41Working with files and folders   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Viewing drives   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Creating folders   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Copying and moving files and folders  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45Deleting files and folders  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46Browsing for files and folders   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Searching for files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49Using the Search utility   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50Working with documents   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Creating a new document   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Saving a document   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Opening a document  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Printing a document  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55Shortcuts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .565 Using the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57Learning about the Internet   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Setting up an Internet account  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59Accessing your Internet account  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Using the World Wide Web   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61Connecting to a Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62Downloading files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63Using e-mail   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64Sending e-mail  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64Checking your e-mail  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .656 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67Using diskettes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68Using the CD/DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69Inserting a CD or DVD  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69Adjusting the volume   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70Listening to CDs  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73Recording and playing audio   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74Playing audio and video files with the Windows Media Player  . . . . . . . . . . . . .76Playing a DVD   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77Using MusicMatch   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78Playing CDs  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78Creating music files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80Editing track information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81Building a music library   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82Listening to Internet radio   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84Using advanced features  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
          iii7 Sending and Receiving Faxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Setting up your cover page  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Sending a fax   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90Faxing from programs  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Receiving and viewing a fax  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 928 Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93Monitoring the battery charge  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Recharging the battery   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Recalibrating the battery  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95Changing batteries   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  96Extending battery life  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Conserving battery power  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Using alternate power sources  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  97Changing power modes   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98Changing power settings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Changing the power scheme   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100Changing alarm options   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Changing advanced power management settings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Using Hibernate mode   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1039 Travel Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Modem  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Radio frequency wireless connections   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Security   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10810 Customizing Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109Adjusting the screen and desktop settings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Adjusting the color depth   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Adjusting the screen resolution   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111Applying a color scheme   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Changing the desktop background  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Selecting a screen saver   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115Changing the touchpad settings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117Programming the multi-function buttons  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118Allocating system memory   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11911 Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121Adding PC Cards  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
iv          Preventing static electricity discharge   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124Installing memory  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125Replacing the hard drive   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12912 Networking Your Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131The benefits of using a network  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132Sharing a single Internet connection  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132Sharing drives   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132Sharing peripheral devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133Streaming audio and video files   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133Playing multi-player games   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133Example network   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134Selecting a network connection  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135Wired connections   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135Wireless Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136Assessing your connection needs  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137Comparing data transfer speed  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139Using a wireless network  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141Using wireless Ethernet  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141Purchasing additional network equipment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164HPNA  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164Ethernet   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165Wireless Ethernet  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166For more information   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16613 Moving from Your Old Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167Transferring software and hardware from your old computer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167Transferring files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168Transferring Internet settings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169Reinstalling your old printer or scanner  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170Reinstalling your old programs   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17114 Maintaining Your Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173Caring for your computer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173Creating an emergency startup diskette   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175Protecting your computer from viruses   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177Managing hard drive space   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179Checking hard drive space   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179Using Disk Cleanup  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .180Checking the hard drive for errors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181Defragmenting the hard drive   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .182
          vBacking up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184Using the Scheduled Task Wizard  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185Cleaning your computer   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186Cleaning the keyboard   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187Cleaning the screen   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187Cleaning the mouse   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18715 Restoring Software  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189Reinstalling device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189Updating device drivers  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191Reinstalling Windows   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193Reinstalling Windows   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193Reinstalling programs   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19416 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197Safety guidelines  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198Troubleshooting  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199First steps  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199Software support tools   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200CD/DVD drive  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  201Device installation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203Diskette drive   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  203Error-checking  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204File management   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205Hard drive  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205Internet   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206Keyboard  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207LCD panel  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208Memory  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208Modem   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208Mouse  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212Networks  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213Passwords  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213PC Cards  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213Power   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214Printer   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214Sound   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  216Video  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217Before calling Gateway Technical Support   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217Telephone numbers   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218Tutoring and training  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
vi          Self-help  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219Tutoring   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220A Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  239
11www.gateway.comChecking Out Your Gateway NotebookTips & Tricks To access the contents of this guide while you are traveling, download an electronic copy from www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
2Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebookwww.gateway.comFrontComponent Icon DescriptionWireless Ethernet indicator/button Lights up when the optional wireless Ethernet is turned on. The button in the center of the indicator may be used for turning the wireless Ethernet on and off. For more information, see “Turning your wireless Ethernet on or off” on page 149.Release latch Open the notebook cover by sliding the release latch to the right.Speakers Provide audio output. Speakers are disabled while headphones are connected.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.ReleaselatchPowerindicatorBatterychargeindicatorSpeaker SpeakerWireless Ethernet indicator/button
3Frontwww.gateway.comPower 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 mode.■LED flashing – notebook is in Standby mode.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) communication devices is an example 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 221 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 9).Component Icon Description
4Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebookwww.gateway.comLeft SideComponent Icon DescriptionModem jack Plug a modem cable into this jack. For more information, see “Connecting the modem” on page 28.Ethernet jack Plug an Ethernet 10/100 network cable into this jack. For more information, see “Connecting to an Ethernet network” on page 29.Speaker jack Plug external speakers or headphones into this jack.Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack.PC Card eject button Press the eject button to remove a PC Card from a PC Card slot. For more information, see “Adding PC Cards” on page 122.PC Card slot Insert one Type II or Type III PC Card into this slot. For more information, see “Adding PC Cards” on page 122.Diskette drive Insert a standard 3.5-inch diskette into this drive. For more information, see “Using diskettes” on page 68.Diskette drive eject button Press the eject button to remove a diskette from the drive.Microphone jackSpeaker jackModem jack PC Card slotPC Cardeject buttonEthernet jackDiskette driveeject buttonDiskette drive
5Right Sidewww.gateway.comRight SideComponent Icon DescriptionBattery  bay Insert the battery into this bay. For more information, see “Changing batteries” on page 96.CD/DVD drive Insert CDs or DVDs into this drive. For more information, see “Using the CD/DVD drive” on page 69.CD/DVD drive indicator Lights up when the computer is accessing the CD/DVD drive.CD/DVD drive eject button Press the eject button to open the disc tray.Manual eject hole Insert a straightened paperclip into this hole to open the CD/DVD drive if the CD/DVD drive eject button fails to open it.CD/DVD driveCD/DVD drive eject buttonCD/DVD drive indicatorBattery Manual eject hole
6Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebookwww.gateway.comBackComponent Icon DescriptionKensington™ lock slot Secure your computer to an object by connecting a Kensington cable lock to this slot.Power connector Plug the AC power adapter cable into this connector.USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a USB Iomega™ Zip™ drive, scanner, or camera) into these ports.Monitor port Plug an external (VGA) monitor into this port.Parallel port Plug a parallel device (such as a printer) into this port.Ventilation fan Helps cool system components. Do not block.ParallelportMonitorportUSB portsPowerconnectorKensingtonlock slot Ventilation fan
7Bottomwww.gateway.comBottomComponent Icon DescriptionHard drive The hard drive is stored here. For more information, see “Replacing the hard drive” on page 129.Battery bay Insert the battery into this bay. For more information, see “Changing batteries” on page 96.Battery latch Slide to release the battery.System label Includes the product model number and serial number. For more information, see “Identifying your model” on page 9.Ventilation fan Helps cool system components. Do not block.Memory bay Install as many as two SO-DIMM memory modules into the slots in this bay. For more information, see “Installing memory” on page 125.Battery latchBattery bayHard driveMemory baySystem labelVentilation fan
8Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebookwww.gateway.comKeyboard areaComponent DescriptionPower button Press to turn the power on or off. For more information on configuring the power button mode, see “Changing power settings” on page 99.Multi-function buttons See“Multi-function buttons” on page 24 for more information.Status indicators See “Status indicators” on page 19 for more information.Touchpad See “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on page 25 for more information.Keyboard See “Using the keyboard” on page 20 for more information.StatusindicatorsKeyboardTouchpadPower buttonMulti-function buttons
9Identifying your modelwww.gateway.comIdentifying your modelThe 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.Important The label shown below is for informational purposes only. Label information varies by model.Revision code and display type/processor sizeGateway model numberGateway serial number Gateway part numberInternal wireless devices
10Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebookwww.gateway.comAccessories Gateway offers accessories that can help you make the most of using your notebook.Batteries and automobile/airplane power adaptersIf 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 casesGateway has large-capacity carrying cases if you need additional space for accessories or supplies.External devicesYou can attach external devices such as a keyboard, mouse, printer, or monitor to your notebook.MemoryLarge 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.PrintersYou 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, and 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.
112www.gateway.comGetting StartedThis chapter provides basic information about your Gateway notebook. Read this chapter to find out:■How to connect the AC power 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 an Ethernet network■How to install peripheral devices
12Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comConnecting the AC adapterYou 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 more information, see “Recalibrating the battery” on page 95.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.
13Connecting the AC adapterwww.gateway.com2Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power connector.3Plug the power cord into a wall outlet.The battery charge indicator turns on (see “Front” on page 2 for the location of the indicator). If the battery charge indicator does not turn on, disconnect the adapter from your notebook and repeat Step 2.4When you finish using your notebook for the first time, turn the notebook off and leave the notebook connected to AC power for at least 24 hours.5If the battery meters do not show a full charge after 24 hours, contact Gateway Technical Support at www.gateway.com/support/contact.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.
14Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comProtecting from power source problemsDuring 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 peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents 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.
15Starting your notebookwww.gateway.comStarting your notebookTo start the notebook:1Open your notebook by sliding the latch on the front of your notebook to the right and lifting the LCD panel.2Press the power button located above the keyboard.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 power settings” on page 99.3If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your computer.Waking up your notebookWhen you have not used your notebook for several minutes, it enters a power-saving mode called Standby. While in Standby, the power indicator flashes.If your notebook is in Standby mode, “wake” it up by pressing the power button. For more information on changing power-saving settings, see “Managing Power” on page 93.Power button
16Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comTurning off your notebookTo turn off your notebook:■Click Start, then click Turn Off Computer, then click Turn Off. Windows shuts down and turns off your computer.If for some reason you cannot use the Turn Off Computer option in Windows to shut down your notebook, press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release.
17Switching user accountswww.gateway.comSwitching user accountsWhen you first turn on your notebook, you have the option to add different user accounts. These user accounts can be customized for each person that uses the notebook. You can add, delete, or modify existing user accounts. You can also switch (change) user accounts without turning off your notebook.To add, delete, or modify user accounts:1Click Start, select Control Panel, then double-click User Accounts. The User Accounts window opens.2Follow the on-screen prompts to add, delete, or modify a user account.To switch user accounts:1Click Start, then select Log Off. The Log Off Windows dialog box opens.Help and Support For more information about adding, deleting, and modifying your user accounts, click Start, then select Help and Support.
18Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.com2Click Switch User to switch between your user accounts. The Windows logon screen opens.3Select the user account that you want to activate. When you switch between users, any programs that were running for the previous user continue to run.
19Status indicatorswww.gateway.comStatus indicatorsIndicator Icon DescriptionCaps Lock Turns on when Caps Lock is activated.Pad Lock Turns on when the embedded numeric keypad is activated.Scroll Lock Turns on when Scroll Lock is activated.Diskette drive Turns on when the standard 1.44 MB diskette drive is in use.Hard drive Turns on when the hard drive is in use.Optical disc drive Turns on when the CD/DVD drive is in use.Hard driveOptical discdriveDiskette driveCaps lockPad lockScroll lock1
20Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comUsing the keyboardYour notebook features a keyboard that has the same functionality as a desktop computer keyboard. Many of the keys have been assigned alternate functions. The alternate function is printed on the key in green text.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 keyboard.Function keys/System keys Volume keys/Navigation keysNumerickeypad Arrow keysWindowskeyFN keyApplicationkey FN keyWindowskey
21Using the keyboardwww.gateway.comKeysKeys Icon DescriptionFunction 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. System keys Press these green-colored keys in combination with the FNkey to perform specific actions.Volume keys Press these green-colored keys in combination with the FNkey to increase or decrease the volume or mute the sound.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-colored system key (such as STANDBY, PAUSE, or STATUS) to perform a specific action.Application key Press for quick access to shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.Windows key Press to open the Windows Start menu. This key can also be used in combination with other keys to open utilities like F(Search utility), R(Run utility), and E(Explorer utility).Numeric keypad Use these keys to type numbers when the numeric keypad is turned on. Press FN+PAD LOCK to turn on the numeric keypad.Arrow keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or left.
22Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comSystem key combinationsWhen you press an FN key and a system key at the same time, the notebook performs the action identified by the green text or icon on the key.LPress FN and this function key... To...Display the power status box in the upper left corner of your screen. The box 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 displays 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 appears 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.)Mute the sound. Press the key combination again to restore the sound.
23Using the keyboardwww.gateway.comIncrease volume.Decrease volume.Press FN and this function key... To...
24Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comMulti-function buttonsFor more information, see “Programming the multi-function buttons” on page 118.Button Icon Press to...E-mail Open your e-mail program.Internet Open your Web browser.Help Open online help.User-defined shortcut Open the program you assign to this key.E-mailInternetHelpUser-defined shortcut
25Using the EZ Pad touchpadwww.gateway.comUsing the EZ Pad touchpadThe EZ Pad™ touchpad consists of a touchpad, a rocker switch, and two buttons.When you move your finger on the touchpad, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction.TouchpadLeft touchpad buttonRight touchpad buttonRocker switch
26Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comYou can use the EZ-Pad left and right buttons below the touchpad to select objects.You can assign a function to the rocker switch between the touchpad buttons on your notebook. This function can be to scroll up or down, maximize or minimize the active window, or open and close the Start menu. For more information about programming the rocker switch, see “Changing the touchpad settings” on page 117.Using the touchpadTo... Do this...Move the pointer on the screen. Move your finger around on the touchpad. If you run out of space 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.
27Using the EZ Pad touchpadwww.gateway.comMove 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...
28Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comConnecting the modemIf your notebook has a modem jack, the notebook has a built-in 56K modem.To connect the modem:1Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem jack  on the left side of the notebook.2Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack. The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.3Start your notebook, then start your communications software.
29Connecting to an Ethernet networkwww.gateway.comConnecting to an Ethernet networkIf your notebook has a network jack, the notebook can connect to an Ethernet 10/100 network.To connect to a network:1Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack  on the left side 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 on to your network.Broadband Internet connectionsYou 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 57 and “Networking Your Notebook” on page 131.
30Chapter 2: Getting Startedwww.gateway.comInstalling a printer, scanner, or other peripheral deviceYour 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. For more information about port locations, see “Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook” on page 1.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.
313www.gateway.comGetting HelpThis chapter tells you about additional information resources available to help you use your computer, including:■HelpSpot™■Online help■Gateway Web siteTips & Tricks To access the contents of this guide while you are traveling, download an electronic copy from www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
32Chapter 3: Getting Helpwww.gateway.comHelpSpotYour computer includes HelpSpot, 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 and Support. HelpSpot opens.If this is the first time you have started HelpSpot on your computer, you may experience a brief wait while HelpSpot builds the help database, then HelpSpot will display an introductory video.
33HelpSpotwww.gateway.comYou can find help information by clicking a link, performing a search, or browsing the index. To learn about using your Gateway computer, your mouse, and other topics, click the Getting Started link on the HelpSpot main page.
34Chapter 3: Getting Helpwww.gateway.comHelpSpot VideosHelpSpot 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 Video Tutorials on the HelpSpot home page, then click a video title. The video plays.
35Online helpwww.gateway.comOnline helpMany 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.
36Chapter 3: Getting Helpwww.gateway.comGateway Web siteGateway 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, including online chat services■Hardware drivers■Order status■Frequently asked questions (FAQs)For more information about connecting to the Internet, see “Using the Internet” on page 57.
374www.gateway.comWindows BasicsRead this chapter to get basic information on how to:■Work on the Windows desktop■Manage files and folders■Work with documents■Use shortcutsHelp and Support For more information on Windows, click Start, then select Help and Support.
38Chapter 4: Windows Basicswww.gateway.comAbout the Windows environmentAfter 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.
39Using the desktopwww.gateway.comUsing the desktopThe desktop contains the taskbar, the Start button, and the Recycle Bin icon.Desktop elements DescriptionThe taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the screen containing 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.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 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 46.
40Chapter 4: Windows Basicswww.gateway.comUsing the Start menuYou can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for files and folders, and more using the Start menu.To use the Start menu:1Click the Start button on the lower left of the Windows desktop. The Start menu opens showing you the first level of menu items.2To see all programs and files in the Start menu, click All Programs.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.3Click a file or program to open it.
41Identifying Window itemswww.gateway.comIdentifying Window itemsWhen 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.MinimizeMaximizeCloseTitle barMenu bar
42Chapter 4: Windows Basicswww.gateway.comEvery program window looks a little different because each has its own menus, icons, and controls. Most windows include these items:Window item DescriptionThe title bar is the horizontal bar at the top of a window that shows the window title.Clicking the minimize button reduces the active window to a button on the taskbar. Clicking the program button on 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.Selecting an item on the menu bar starts an action such as Print or Save.
43Working with files and folderswww.gateway.comWorking with files and foldersYou 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.Viewing drivesDrives 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/DVD drive.To view the drives on your computer: ■Click Start, then select My Computer from the Start menu.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 Show the contents of this drive.Drives
44Chapter 4: Windows Basicswww.gateway.comCreating foldersFolders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They can 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:1Click Start, then select My Computer from the Start menu.2Double-click the drive or folder, for example the 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 Show the contents of this drive.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 by the folder icon.FoldersFiles
45Working with files and folderswww.gateway.comCopying and moving files and foldersThe skills you need to copy and move files are called copying, cutting, and pasting.When you copy and paste a file or folder, you place a copy of the file or folder 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 file or folder, you remove the file or folder from its location and place the file or folder on the Windows clipboard. When you decide where you want the file or folder to go, you paste it there.To copy a file or folder to another folder:1Right-click (press the right mouse button) the file or folder that you want to copy. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop.2Select Copy from the pop-up menu.3Open the destination folder.4With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.5Select Paste. A copy of the file or folder appears in the new location.To move a file or folder to another folder:1Right-click (press the right mouse button) the file or folder that you want to move. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop.2Select Cut from the pop-up menu.3Open the destination folder.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 or folder into more than one place, but as soon as you copy or cut a different file or folder, the original file or folder is deleted from the clipboard.
46Chapter 4: Windows Basicswww.gateway.com4With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.5Select Paste. The file or folder you moved appears in its new location and is removed from its old location.Deleting files and foldersWhen 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, called 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 56.2Select 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 and lists 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 56. 3Select File, then Restore. Windows returns the deleted files or folders to their original locations.
47Working with files and folderswww.gateway.comTo empty the Recycle Bin:1Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window opens.2Select 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 files in the Recycle Bin.Caution Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently erases any files or folders in the bin. These files cannot be restored.
48Chapter 4: Windows Basicswww.gateway.comBrowsing for files and foldersA 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:1Click Start, then select My Computer.2Double-click the drive or folder that you think contains the file or folder that you want to find. (If you do not see the contents of a folder, click Show the contents of this folder.)3Continue double-clicking folders and their subfolders until you find the file or folder you want.

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