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
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Contents
1 Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Left Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Right Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Keyboard area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Identifying your model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Switching user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Multi-function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Using the touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Connecting the modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Connecting to an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Broadband Internet connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
3Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
HelpSpot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
HelpSpot Videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
4 Windows Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
About the Windows environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Using the desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Using the Start menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
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Identifying Window items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Working with files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Viewing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Creating folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Copying and moving files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Deleting files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Browsing for files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Searching for files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Using the Search utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Working with documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Creating a new document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Saving a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Opening a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Printing a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
5 Using the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Learning about the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Setting up an Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Accessing your Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Using the World Wide Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Connecting to a Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Downloading files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Using e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Sending e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Checking your e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
6 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Using diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Using the CD/DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Inserting a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Listening to CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Recording and playing audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Playing audio and video files with the Windows Media Player . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Playing a DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Using MusicMatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Playing CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Creating music files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Editing track information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Building a music library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Listening to Internet radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Using advanced features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
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7 Sending and Receiving Faxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Setting up your cover page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Sending a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Faxing from programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Receiving and viewing a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
8 Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Recharging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Recalibrating the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Changing power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Changing the power scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Changing alarm options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Changing advanced power management settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Using Hibernate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
9 Travel Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
10 Customizing Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Adjusting the screen and desktop settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Adjusting the color depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Adjusting the screen resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Applying a color scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Changing the desktop background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Selecting a screen saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Changing the touchpad settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Programming the multi-function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Allocating system memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
11 Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Adding PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
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Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
Replacing the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129
12 Networking Your Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131
The benefits of using a network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132
Sharing a single Internet connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132
Sharing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132
Sharing peripheral devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133
Streaming audio and video files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133
Playing multi-player games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133
Example network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
Selecting a network connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135
Wired connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135
Wireless Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136
Assessing your connection needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137
Comparing data transfer speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139
Using a wireless network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Using wireless Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Purchasing additional network equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164
HPNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164
Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165
Wireless Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166
For more information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166
13 Moving from Your Old Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
Transferring software and hardware from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
Transferring files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168
Transferring Internet settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169
Reinstalling your old printer or scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170
Reinstalling your old programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171
14 Maintaining Your Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173
Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173
Creating an emergency startup diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
Protecting your computer from viruses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177
Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Using Disk Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .180
Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181
Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .182
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Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
Using the Scheduled Task Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Cleaning the screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
15 Restoring Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Reinstalling device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Updating device drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Reinstalling Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Reinstalling Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Reinstalling programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
16 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Software support tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
CD/DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Device installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Error-checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
LCD panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Before calling Gateway Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Tutoring and training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
vi
Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219
Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219
Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220
A Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
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www.gateway.com
Checking Out
Your Gateway
Notebook
Tips & Tricks To access the contents of this guide while you are traveling,
download an electronic copy from
www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook
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Front
Component Icon Description
Wireless 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.
Release
latch
Power
indicator
Battery
charge
indicator
Speaker Speaker
Wireless Ethernet
indicator/button
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Front
www.gateway.com
Power indicator Lights up when the notebook is turned on and shows
notebook power status:
■LED on – notebook is ON.
■LED off – notebook is OFF or in Hibernate 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
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook
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Left Side
Component Icon Description
Modem 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
jack
Speaker jack
Modem jack PC Card
slot
PC Card
eject button
Ethernet jack
Diskette drive
eject button
Diskette
drive
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Right Side
www.gateway.com
Right Side
Component Icon Description
Battery 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
drive
CD/DVD drive
eject button
CD/DVD
drive
indicator
Battery Manual eject
hole
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook
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Back
Component Icon Description
Kensington™ 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.
Parallel
port
Monitor
port
USB
ports
Power
connector
Kensington
lock slot Ventilation
fan
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Bottom
www.gateway.com
Bottom
Component Icon Description
Hard 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
latch
Battery
bay
Hard drive
Memory
bay
System
label
Ventilation
fan
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook
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Keyboard area
Component Description
Power 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.
Status
indicators
Keyboard
Touchpad
Power button
Multi-function buttons
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Identifying your model
www.gateway.com
Identifying your model
The label on the bottom of your computer contains information that
identifies your notebook model. Gateway Technical Support will need this
information if you call for assistance.
Important The label shown below is for informational purposes only.
Label information varies by model.
Revision code
and display
type/processor
size
Gateway model
number
Gateway serial
number Gateway part
number
Internal
wireless
devices
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Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Notebook
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Accessories
Gateway offers accessories that can help you make the most of using your
notebook.
Batteries and automobile/airplane power adapters
If you run your notebook on battery power for extended periods, you may
want to buy an additional battery so that you can swap batteries when
necessary.
With an automobile/airplane power adapter, you can save battery power by
plugging your notebook into an automobile cigarette lighter or an airplane
in-flight power receptacle.
Carrying cases
Gateway has large-capacity carrying cases if you need additional space for
accessories or supplies.
External devices
You can attach external devices such as a keyboard, mouse, printer, or monitor
to your notebook.
Memory
Large programs, such as multimedia games or graphics programs, use a lot of
memory. If your programs are running more slowly than you think they
should, try adding more memory.
Printers
You can attach many types of printers to your computer. The most common
types are inkjet and laser printers, which print in color or black and white.
Inkjet printers and cartridges are relatively inexpensive, but usually they are
slower than laser printers. Using an inkjet color printer, you can print pictures,
banners, 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.
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2
www.gateway.com
Getting Started
This chapter provides basic information about your Gateway notebook. Read
this chapter to find out:
■How to connect the AC 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
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Connecting the AC adapter
You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or the notebook battery. The
battery was shipped to you partially charged. You should use the AC adapter
right away to fully charge the battery. Allow 24 hours for the battery to fully
charge.
To connect the AC adapter:
1Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.
Important If the battery is not fully charged before you use your
notebook on battery power for the first time, the battery life
may be much shorter than you expect. If the battery life
seems short even after being charged for 24 hours, the
battery may need to be recalibrated. For 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.
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Connecting the AC adapter
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2Connect 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.
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Protecting from power source problems
During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your
computer can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system
damage. Protect your computer and 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.
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Starting your notebook
www.gateway.com
Starting your notebook
To 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 notebook
When 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
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Turning off your notebook
To 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.
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Switching user accounts
www.gateway.com
Switching user accounts
When 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.
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Status indicators
www.gateway.com
Status indicators
Indicator Icon Description
Caps 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 drive
Optical disc
drive
Diskette drive
Caps lock
Pad lock
Scroll lock
1
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Using the keyboard
Your 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 keys
Numeric
keypad Arrow keysWindows
key
FN key
Application
key FN key
Windows
key
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Using the keyboard
www.gateway.com
Keys
Keys Icon Description
Function keys Press these keys labeled F1 to F12 to perform
actions in programs. For example, pressing F1 may
open help.
Each program uses different function keys for
different purposes. Refer to the program
documentation to find out more about the function
key actions.
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.
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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System key combinations
When 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.
L
Press 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.
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Using the keyboard
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Increase volume.
Decrease volume.
Press FN and this
function key... To...
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Multi-function buttons
For 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-mail
Internet
Help
User-defined
shortcut
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Using the EZ Pad touchpad
www.gateway.com
Using the EZ Pad touchpad
The 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.
Touchpad
Left
touchpad
button
Right
touchpad
button
Rocker
switch
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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You 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 touchpad
To... 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.
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Using the EZ Pad touchpad
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Move an object
on the screen. Position the pointer over the
object. Press the left button and
hold it down, then use the
touchpad to move (drag) the
object to the appropriate part of
the screen. Release the button
to drop the object where you
want it.
To... Do this...
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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Connecting the modem
If 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.
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Connecting to an Ethernet network
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Connecting to an Ethernet network
If 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 connections
You can use your computer’s Ethernet jack for more than just networking.
Many broadband Internet connections, such as cable modems and DSL
modems, connect to your computer’s Ethernet jack. For more information,
see “Using the Internet” on page 57 and “Networking Your Notebook” on
page 131.
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Installing a printer, scanner, or other
peripheral device
Your computer has two Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports and a parallel printer
port. These ports are used for connecting peripheral devices such as printers,
scanners, and digital cameras to your computer. 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.
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Getting Help
This chapter tells you about additional information resources available to help
you use your computer, including:
■HelpSpot™
■Online help
■Gateway Web site
Tips & Tricks To access the contents of this guide while you are traveling,
download an electronic copy from
www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
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HelpSpot
Your 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.
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You 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.
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HelpSpot Videos
HelpSpot contains several short videos to help introduce you to new concepts
or show you how to perform various tasks.
To play a HelpSpot video:
■To watch a video in HelpSpot, click Video Tutorials on the HelpSpot home
page, then click a video title. The video plays.
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Online help
Many programs provide information online so you can research a topic or
learn how to perform a task while you are using the program. Most online
help information can be accessed by selecting a topic from a Help menu or
by clicking a Help button.
You can search for information by viewing the help contents, checking the
index, searching for a topic or keyword, or browsing through the online help.
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Gateway Web site
Gateway provides a variety of information on its Web site to help you use
your computer.
Visit the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com for:
■Technical documentation and product manuals
■Technical tips and support, 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.
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Windows
Basics
Read this chapter to get basic information on how to:
■Work on the Windows desktop
■Manage files and folders
■Work with documents
■Use shortcuts
Help and
Support For more information on Windows, click Start, then select
Help and Support.
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About the Windows environment
After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop.
The desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your
personalized work space where you open programs and perform other tasks.
Your desktop may be different from the example shown below, depending on
how your computer is set up.
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Using the desktop
The desktop contains the taskbar, the Start button, and the Recycle Bin icon.
Desktop elements Description
The 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.
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Using the Start menu
You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search
for files and folders, and more using the Start menu.
To 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.
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Identifying Window items
When you double-click the icon for a drive, folder, file, or program, a window
opens on the desktop. This example shows the Local Disk (C:) window, which
opens after double-clicking the Local Disk (C:) icon in the My Computer
window.
Minimize
Maximize
Close
Title bar
Menu bar
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Every program window looks a little different because each has its own menus,
icons, and controls. Most windows include these items:
Window item Description
The title bar is the horizontal bar at the top
of a window that shows the 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.
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Working with files and folders
You can organize your files and programs to suit your preferences much like
you would store information in a file cabinet. You can store these files in
folders and copy, move, and delete the information just as you would
reorganize and throw away information in a file cabinet.
Viewing drives
Drives are like file cabinets because they hold files and folders. A computer
almost always has more than one drive. Each drive has a letter, usually Local
Disk (C:) for the hard drive and 3½ Floppy (A:) for the diskette drive. You may
also have more drives such as a CD/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
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Creating folders
Folders 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.
Folders
Files
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Copying and moving files and folders
The 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.
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4With 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 folders
When you throw away paper files and folders, you take them from the file
cabinet and put them in a trash can. Eventually the trash can is emptied.
In Windows, you throw away files and folders by first moving them to
Windows trash can, 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.
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To 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.
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Browsing for files and folders
A file or folder that you need is rarely right on top of your Windows desktop.
It is usually on a drive inside a folder that may be inside yet another folder,
and so on.
Windows drives, folders, and files are organized in the same way as a real file
cabinet in that they may have many levels (usually many more levels than
a file cabinet, in fact). So you usually will have to search through levels of
folders to find the file or folder that you need. This is called browsing.
To browse for a file:
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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Working with documents
Documents are commonly word processing files, spreadsheet files, or other
similar files. The basic methods of creating, saving, opening, and printing a
document apply to most of these types of files.
The following examples illustrate the concepts for creating, saving, opening,
and printing a document in Microsoft® Word. Though these examples use
Microsoft Word, similar procedures apply to other programs such as Microsoft
Excel, Microsoft Works, and Microsoft Publisher.
For more information about using a program, select Help on the menu bar.
Creating a new document
To create a new document:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, then Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word
starts and a blank document opens.
2Select File, then select New. The New Document pane opens.
Help and
Support
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3Click General Templates. The Templates dialog box opens.
4Click a tab for the type of document you want to create, select a
document template style, then click OK. The document template opens.
5Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at
the top of the window to format the document.
Saving a document
After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later.
To save a document in Microsoft Word:
1Select File, then Save. The Save As dialog box opens.
2Select the folder in which you plan to save the file from the Save in list.
Help and
Support For more information on saving a document, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
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3Type the new file name.
4Click Save.
Opening a document
To view, revise, or print an existing document, you need to open it. Open
the document in the program it was created in.
To open a document in Microsoft Word:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, then Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word
starts and a blank document opens.
2Select File, then Open.
Help and
Support For more information on opening a document, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
File
folder
File
name
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3Find the folder you want to open in the Look in list.
4Double-click the document file name. The document opens.
Printing a document
To print a document, you must have a printer connected to your computer
or have access to a network printer. For more information about installing or
using your printer, refer to the printer documentation.
To print a document in Microsoft Word:
1Make sure that the printer is turned on and loaded with paper.
2Start Microsoft Word and open a document.
3Select File, then Print. The Print dialog box opens.
4Select the print options, then click OK. The document prints.
Help and
Support For more information on printing a document, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
File
folder
File
name
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Shortcuts
The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and
almost all programs that run in Windows. For more information on Windows
shortcuts, see your Windows or program documentation.
To... Do this...
Copy a file, folder, text, or graphic Select the item, then press CTRL +C.
Cut a file, folder, text, or graphic Select the item, then press CTRL +X.
Paste a file, folder, text, or graphic Click inside the folder or window where you want to paste
the object, then press CTRL +V.
Select multiple items in a list or in a
window Click the first item, press and hold down the CTRL key,
then click each of the remaining items.
Select multiple adjacent items in a list
or window Click the first item in the list, press and hold down the
SHIFT key, then click the last item in the list.
Permanently delete a file or folder Click the file or folder, then press SHIFT +DELETE. The file
is permanently deleted. The file or folder is not stored
in the Recycle Bin.
Rename a file or folder Select the file or folder, press F2, type the new name,
then press ENTER.
Close the active window or program Press ALT +F4.
Switch to a different file, folder, or
running program Press ALT +TAB.
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Using the
Internet
This chapter provides information about the Internet and the World Wide
Web, and tells you how to set up the America Online® Internet service so that
you can send and receive e-mail and access other Internet resources.
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Learning about the Internet
The Internet is a worldwide network of computers linked together to provide
information to people everywhere. The two most popular services on the
Internet are e-mail and the World Wide Web. You can access this network by
connecting your computer to a telephone, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), or
cable line and signing up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
If you want to access the Internet you need:
■A modem – a device that connects your computer, using a telephone,
DSL, or cable line, to other computers or servers.
■An Internet Service Provider – a company that provides access to the
Internet through an ISP server. When you connect to an ISP, the ISP server
lets you access the Internet and your e-mail messages.
■A Web browser – a program that displays information from the World
Wide Web.
■An e-mail program – a program that lets you create, send, and receive
e-mail messages over the Internet.
Your computer
connects to the
Internet through
an ISP.
ISP Servers
let you connect to
the Internet and
access your e-mail
messages.
Internet Servers
store information so other
computers can access it
from the Internet.
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Setting up an Internet account
Before you can view the information on the World Wide Web, you need to
set up an Internet account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). If you have
chosen America Online as an ISP, follow these instructions to set up and
connect to your account. To establish a different ISP service, or to transfer an
existing account to this computer, contact the ISP directly.
If you set up an account with America Online, an Internet e-mail address is
created for you. After completing the setup you are ready to access the
Internet.
To set up an Internet account with America Online:
1Select Start, then select All Programs, then America Online.
2Follow the on-screen instructions. After setting up your account, you can
connect to the Internet and access your e-mail services.
Help and
Support For more information on setting up an Internet account,
click Start, then select Help and Support.
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Accessing your Internet account
To connect to your America Online Internet account:
1Select Start, then select All Programs, then America Online.
2Complete the member name and password information, then click
Connect. The computer dials the Internet account telephone number.
If you are using a service other than America Online, check with your ISP for
the correct procedure for connecting.
After connecting, the Web browser window opens. For information about the
Web and the Web browser, see “Using the World Wide Web” on page 61.
To disconnect from your America Online Internet account:
■Click X in the top right corner of the America Online program. Your
computer disconnects from the Internet.
If you are using a service other than America Online, check with your ISP for
the correct procedure for disconnecting.
Help and
Support For more information on accessing your Internet account,
click Start, then select Help and Support.
Important Make sure that your computer disconnects correctly from
your Internet account. If you do not have an “unlimited
hours” ISP account, you may have to pay for the time that
you are connected, even if you are not at the computer.
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Using the World Wide Web
The World Wide Web is a multimedia window to the Internet that gives you
access to millions of information sources.
Information on the Web comes to you on Web pages, which are electronic
documents that you view using a Web page display program called a browser.
You can use any of the commercially available Web browsers, like Microsoft
Internet Explorer, which comes installed on your new computer.
Web pages can contain text, animations, music, and other multimedia
features.
A group of related Web pages is called a Web site. You can access Web sites to
shop, track investments, read the news, download programs, and much more.
You can explore a Web site or visit other Web sites by clicking areas on the
Web page called links, or hyperlinks. A link may be colored or underlined text,
a picture, or an animated image. You can identify a link by moving the mouse
pointer over it. If the pointer changes to a hand, the item is a link.
To learn more about using the Web browser features, select Help in the menu
bar.
Web
page
Link
Linked Web page
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Connecting to a Web site
After you set up an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as
America Online, you can access the many information sources on the World
Wide Web.
To connect to a Web site:
1Connect to your Internet account. After the computer connects, a default
opening page or welcome screen opens.
2To go to a different Web site, type the address (called a URL for “Universal
Resource Locator”) in the browser address bar (for example
www.gateway.com) then click GO on the browser address bar.
- OR -
On the current Web page, click a link to a Web site.
The Web browser locates the server computer on the Internet, downloads
(transfers) data to your computer, and displays the page on the site that
you requested.
Sometimes Web pages display slowly. The speed that a Web page displays on
your screen depends on the complexity of the Web page and other Internet
conditions. Additionally, the speed of your connection will determine how
fast Web pages display.
Help and
Support For more information on connecting to a Web site, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Downloading files
Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the
Internet to your computer.
To protect your computer against viruses, make sure that you scan the files
you download. For more information, see “Protecting your computer from
viruses” on page 177.
To download files or programs from a Web site:
1Connect to your Internet account.
2In the address bar, type the address of the Web site that contains the file
or program you want to download, then click GO on the browser address
bar.
- OR -
Click a link on a Web page to navigate to the Web site containing the
file that you want to download.
3Create or locate the folder where you want to store the file on your
computer.
4Click the link on the Web page for the file that you want to download.
5Follow the on-screen instructions for saving the file in the folder that
you created.
A copy of the file is downloaded to your computer. The time that it takes
to transfer the file to your computer depends on file size and Internet
conditions.
6Open the folder that you created.
7Install or view the downloaded file by double-clicking it. If applicable,
follow the instructions provided on the Web site to run or install the
program.
Help and
Support For more information on downloading files, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
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Using e-mail
E-mail (electronic mail) lets you send messages to anyone who has an Internet
connection and e-mail address. E-mail is usually a free service of your Internet
account.
The Internet never closes, so you can send e-mail messages at any time. Your
e-mail messages arrive at most e-mail addresses in minutes.
An e-mail address consists of a user name, the @ symbol, and the Internet
domain name of the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or company that “hosts”
that user. Your e-mail address is assigned when you sign up for an account
with an ISP. For example, a person with an account with America Online
might have an e-mail address that is similar to this one:
Sending e-mail
To send e-mail using America Online:
1Connect to your America Online account.
2Click Write.
3Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in
the Send To box.
4Type the subject of your e-mail in the Subject box.
Help and
Support For more information on sending e-mail, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
jdoe@aol.com
User name Internet domain name
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5Type the e-mail message.
6When finished, click Send Now. Your e-mail is sent over the Internet to
the e-mail address you specified.
Checking your e-mail
To check your e-mail using America Online:
1Connect to your America Online account.
2Click Read.
For more information about managing and organizing your e-mail messages,
see the online help in your e-mail program.
Help and
Support For more information on checking your e-mail, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
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Using
Multimedia
This chapter provides information on using the multimedia capabilities of
your notebook. Read this chapter to learn how to:
■Use the diskette drive
■Use the CD/DVD drive
■Play CDs and DVDs
■Record and play audio files
■Use Windows Media Player
■Use MusicMatch
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Using diskettes
The diskette drive uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called floppy disks).
Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer.
To use a diskette:
1Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up.
2To access a file on the diskette, click Start, then select My Computer, then
the drive letter (for example, the A: drive), then double-click the file.
3To remove the diskette, make sure the drive activity indicator (see “Status
indicators” on page 19) is off, then press the diskette eject button.
Warning Do not expose diskettes to water or magnetic fields.
Exposure could damage the data on the diskette.
Diskette
slot Eject
button
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Using the CD/DVD drive
You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features,
such as making recordings, listening to audio CDs, and watching DVD movies.
Inserting a CD or DVD
To insert a CD or DVD:
1Press the eject button on the CD/DVD drive. After the disc tray opens
slightly, pull the tray completely open.
2Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up, then press down
carefully on the disc until it snaps into place.
3Push the tray in until it is closed.
Important When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure
that the label side is facing up. If the disc has two playable
sides, place the disc so that the name of the side you want
to play is facing up.
Eject button
Activity indicator Manual eject hole
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Adjusting the volume
You can use the volume controls to adjust the overall volume and the volume
of specific sound devices in your computer.
To adjust the overall volume level using hardware controls:
■On the keyboard, press the volume system key combination FN+ or
FN+ to change the volume, or press the mute system key combination
FN+ to turn off all sound.
To adjust the overall volume level from Windows:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
2Select Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices.
3Select Adjust the system volume. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties
dialog box opens.
Help and
Support For more information on adjusting volume, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
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4On the Volume tab, drag the Device Volume slider to change the volume
or click to select the Mute check box, then click OK.
To adjust specific volume levels:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
2Select Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices.
3Select Adjust the system volume. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties
dialog box opens.
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4On the Volume tab, click Advanced in the Device volume area. The Master
Volume dialog box opens.
If the device you want to adjust does not appear in the Master Volume
dialog box, select Options, Properties, select the audio device you want
to adjust, then click OK.
5Drag the volume level and balance sliders for the device you want to
adjust, then close the window. For more information about the volume
controls, select Help in the Master Volume dialog box.
6Click X in the top right corner of the Master Volume dialog box.
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Listening to CDs
Use the Windows Media Player to listen to CDs. For more information about
using the Windows Media Player, select Help.
To play a CD:
1Insert a CD into the CD/DVD drive.
2If a message asks you to chose a CD player, select Windows Media Player.
The Windows Media Player opens.
3When the media player opens, click (play).
Play Stop
Next
Previous Mute
Volume
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Recording and playing audio
Use the instructions below to make an audio recording by speaking into the
microphone.
To make an audio recording:
1Plug a microphone into the Microphone jack on the computer. See “Left
Side” on page 4 for the location of the jack.
2Click Start, then select All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then
Sound Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.
3Click (record), then speak into the microphone.
4When you finish recording, click (stop).
5Select File, then Save As. The Save As dialog box opens.
6Name the recording, specify the path, then click Save. The recording is
saved.
Help and
Support For more information on recording and playing audio, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
Rewind Fast
Forward Play Stop Record
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To play an audio recording in Sound Recorder:
1Open the Sound Recorder.
2Select File, then Open. The Open dialog box opens.
3Select the file you want to play back, then click Open.
4Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by clicking
(stop).
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Playing audio and video files with the
Windows Media Player
The Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files,
including WAV, MIDI, MP3, AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. For more
information about using the Windows Media Player, select Help.
To play a file using the Windows Media Player:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, then Windows Media Player. The
Windows Media Player opens.
2Select File, then Open. The Open dialog box opens.
3Select the file you want to play, then click Open.
4Play the file by clicking (play), then stop playing the file by clicking
(stop).
Video file
information
Video
screen
Stop
Play
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Playing a DVD
A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data
capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies, several albums
of music, or several gigabytes of data can fit on a single disc. If your computer
has a DVD drive, you can play DVDs with the DVD Player program. For more
information about playing DVDs, select Help in the DVD player program.
To play a DVD:
1Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in
and that the volume is turned up.
2Turn off your system screen saver and standby timers.
3Click Start, then select All Programs, DVD Player, then DVD Player. The
DVD Player video screen and control panel open.
4Insert a DVD into the DVD drive, then click (play). The DVD plays.
5To control the DVD or adjust the volume, use the controls in the
DVD player. For more information on using the DVD player, see its
online help.
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Using MusicMatch
Using MusicMatch™, you can:
■Play music CDs
■Create MP3 music files from your music CDs
■Use your music files to build a music library
■Enter music track information
■Listen to Internet Radio
For more information on using MusicMatch, see its online Help.
Playing CDs
You can use the MusicMatch program to play music CDs.
To play a music CD:
1Insert the music CD into the CD/DVD drive on your computer. The first
time you insert a CD, the Audio CD dialog box opens.
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2Click Play Audio CD using mmjb, select Always do the selected action, then
click OK. MusicMatch opens, the CD begins playing, and the names of
the music tracks appear in the playlist area.
The next time you insert an audio CD, MusicMatch plays the CD
automatically.
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Building a music library
Use MusicMatch to build a music library. You can organize your music tracks
by categories, find a track quickly by using the sort features, and add
information to a music file.
You can add music tracks to your music library by:
■Creating MP3 files – When you create MP3 files from the tracks on your
music CD, MusicMatch automatically adds these files to your music
library.
■Dragging and Dropping – Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer
or your desktop to the music library.
■Downloading files from the Internet – When you are connected to the
Internet, MP3 files that you download are automatically added to your
music library.
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Changing the music library display settings
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2To select one of the MusicMatch Internet radio stations, select one of the
Popular Stations. You can also choose another Internet radio station by
clicking Broadcast Stations, then clicking Station Selector.
3Select a radio station, then click Play. MusicMatch connects to the station.
Using advanced features
You can also use MusicMatch to create your own music CDs and to download
MP3 files to your portable MP3 player. See the MusicMatch online Help.
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Sending and
Receiving
Faxes
PhoneTools lets you send and receive faxes using the modem.
After you have created a document using a spreadsheet, word processor, or
graphics program, you can send it as a fax. You can also receive faxes on your
notebook. This chapter shows you how to:
■Set up a fax cover page
■Create and send a new fax
■Fax a document you created in another program
■Receive, view, and print a fax
Help and
Support For more information on using the fax functions in
PhoneTools, click Start, then select Help and Support.
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Setting up your cover page
Before you send your first fax, you need to set up your user information. Your
fax cover sheets and fax headers will contain this information, which is
required by law.
To set up your fax cover page:
1If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, then select All Programs, PhoneTools,
then PhoneTools.
2Select Setup, then select General Setup. The General Setup dialog box
opens.
3Click the Customize tab, then type your personal information in the User
boxes.
4Click the Fax tab, then enter your name and fax number in the Fax
identifier text box. This identifier information is required by law. You can
enter up to 20 characters in the text box. We suggest using eight
characters for your identifier name, followed by 12 characters for your
telephone number.
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5Click OK.
6If you want to change the logo that appears on the cover page, select
Setup, then select Logo Management. The Logo Management dialog box
opens.
7If you do not want the PhoneTools logo on your cover page, click the
picture then click the clear button.
- OR -
If you want to replace the PhoneTools logo with one of your own, click
the import button then select a picture for the logo. The picture must
be saved in a supported format (.BMP, .DGR, .GIF, .JPG, .PCX, .T31, or
.TIF) and be small enough to fit in the logo box.
8Click OK.
Important Some fax machines cannot use special characters such
as hyphens. We suggest using spaces instead of hyphens
in telephone and fax numbers.
Import
button Clear
button
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3Enter the recipient’s name, company (if applicable), and fax number, then
click Next.
4Type the message text in the Message Text area.
5Select a cover page template from the Template list, then click Next. If you
typed a message in the Message Text area, you must select a cover page.
6If you want to attach a file, make sure the file is not open, then click
(browse), select the file, then click Open.
7Click Next, then click Finish. The Confirm Transmissions dialog box
opens.
8Click Send. PhoneTools dials the fax number and sends your fax.
Important If for any reason you receive a failed transmission
message, select Send, then Outbox. Right-click the fax that
was not sent to modify it.
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Faxing from programs
To fax a document directly from most programs:
1In the program with the document open, click File, then select Print. The
Print dialog box opens.
2Select the printer CAPTURE FAX BVRP, then click OK. The Send Fax Wizard
opens.
3Complete the wizard as instructed in “Sending a fax” on page 90.
Receiving and viewing a fax
To receive and view a fax:
1If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, then select All Programs, PhoneTools,
then PhoneTools. When PhoneTools is open, it detects incoming faxes and
stores them in the In Box.
2To view a fax, click Fax Inbox, then double-click the fax you want to view.
The fax viewer opens, where you can view and print the fax.
Important Your notebook cannot detect incoming faxes while in the
Standby power-saving mode. For information on changing
power savings settings, see “Changing power settings” on
page 99.
Make sure no other device (such as an answering
machine) is set up to answer the telephone on fewer rings
than PhoneTools.
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Managing Power
While your notebook is running on battery power, you should manage power
consumption to get the most use out of the battery. This chapter shows you
how to:
■Check and recharge the battery
■Change batteries
■Recalibrate the battery
■Extend the life of the battery by conserving battery power and using
alternate power sources
■Change power-saving settings
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Monitoring the battery charge
Closely monitor the battery charge. When the battery charge gets low, change
the battery or connect to AC power immediately to prevent losing any
unsaved work.
Monitor the battery charge by:
■Positioning the cursor over the power cord icon or battery icon on
the taskbar. A battery status window opens. Move the cursor away from
the icon to close the window.
■Pressing FN+STATUS to view the Status display, which opens in the upper
left corner of the screen. The Status display shows the current power
source, the battery charge, and the power management mode.
■Looking at the battery charge indicator:
■A green light indicates the battery is fully charged.
■An orange light indicates the battery is being charged.
■A red light indicates the battery is low.
■A red, blinking light indicates the battery is critically low.
■An orange, blinking light indicates the battery is malfunctioning.
■Waiting for a Low Battery warning message to appear.
If your battery charge indicators display what looks like an inaccurate charge,
you may need to recalibrate the battery. For more information, see
“Recalibrating the battery” on page 95.
Recharging the battery
The battery recharges while it is installed and your notebook is connected to
AC power. While the battery is recharging, the battery charge indicator turns
orange and the battery icon on the taskbar has a lightning bolt .
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Recalibrating the battery
If your notebook unexpectedly goes into Standby mode while you are using
it but the battery charge is not low, you may need to recalibrate your battery.
You should also recalibrate the battery once a month to maintain the accuracy
of the battery gauge.
To recalibrate the battery:
1Connect the AC adapter, then turn on your notebook.
2When you see the startup screen, press F2. The BIOS Setup program
opens.
3Click Exit, then select Battery Auto-Learning (set by default to disabled). A
checkmark appears to show that it is now turned on.
4Exit the BIOS Setup utility by clicking Exit, then selecting Save and Exit.
The battery recalibration program begins and the notebook will reboot.
After your battery has been recalibrated, the notebook recharges the
battery. Recharging may take 12-24 hours. After the battery finishes
recharging, the battery meter displays the accurate battery charge. If the
battery meter does not show an accurate charge, contact Gateway
Technical Support.
5Follow the on-screen instructions to exit the battery recalibration
program.
Important Do not interrupt the battery recalibration process. If
recalibration is interrupted, you must start the process over
again.
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Changing batteries
Your notebook must be plugged into AC power or turned off while changing
the batteries.
To replace the battery:
1If your notebook is on, save all work and shut down the notebook.
2Close the notebook cover, turn your notebook over, slide the battery
release latch, and slide the battery out of the bay.
3Slide a charged battery into the bay until it snaps into place.
Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with a Gateway battery designed for your
notebook. Discard used batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
The battery used in this device may present a fire or
chemical burn hazard if mishandled. Do not disassemble,
heat above 212°F (100°C), or incinerate. Dispose of used
battery promptly. Keep away from children.
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Extending battery life
Conserving battery power
While using the battery to power your notebook, conserve power by:
■Dimming the display as low as is comfortable.
■Removing PC Cards when you do not need them. Many PC Cards use a
small amount of power while inserted, even if they are not being used.
■Modifying the Power Management settings for maximum power savings.
For more information, see “Changing power settings” on page 99.
■Closing the display panel to turn off the display while you are not using
your notebook. The display stays off until you open the panel again.
■Using Hibernate mode for maximum power savings while the notebook
is not in use. For more information, see “Using Hibernate mode” on
page 103.
■Using the CD/DVD drive only when necessary. CD/DVD drives use a large
amount of power.
■Recharge the battery often, take an extra battery, and fully recharge the
batteries before traveling. For more information, see “Recharging the
battery” on page 94 and “Changing batteries” on page 96.
Using alternate power sources
To extend battery life, use alternate power sources whenever possible.
■If traveling internationally, take electrical adapters. Save the battery for
times when you cannot use a power adapter. If you plan on taking your
AC power adapter, also take a single-plug power surge protector.
■If you will have access to an EmPower™ in-flight power receptacle or an
automobile cigarette lighter, use an airplane/automobile power adapter.
Save the battery for times when you cannot use a power adapter.
■To find AC power outlets in airports, look for them next to support pillars,
in large areas such as boarding gates, and under banks of telephones.
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Changing power modes
You can use the following power modes to lengthen the life of your notebook’s
battery:
■Standby - while your notebook is on standby, it switches to a low power
state where devices, such as the LCD screen and drives, turn off.
■Hibernate - (also called save to disk) writes all current memory (RAM)
information to the hard drive, then turns your notebook completely off.
The next time you turn on the notebook, it reads the memory
information from the hard drive and opens the programs and documents
that were open when you activated Hibernate. For more information on
using Hibernate mode, see “Using Hibernate mode” on page 103.
Using Standby mode
Always save your work before using Standby mode. When in Standby, your
computer reduces or turns off the power to most devices except memory.
However, the information in the memory is not saved to the hard drive. If
power is interrupted, the information is lost.
When in Hibernate mode, your computer saves all memory information to
the hard drive, then turns the power completely off.
If your computer
is... ...and you
want to... ...then
On Enter
Standby mode Click Start, then click
Turn Off Computer, then click Stand By.
On Enter Hibernate
mode (must be
enabled)
Click Start, then click
Turn Off Computer, press and hold
SHIFT, then click Hibernate.
In Standby or
Hibernate mode Exit Standby or
Hibernate mode Press the power button.
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Changing power settings
You can change the function of the power button, Standby key, and
power-saving timers by changing power settings on your notebook.
You can customize power settings from the Windows Control Panel by
selecting power schemes, setting power alarms, adjusting advanced power
settings, and activating Hibernate mode.
Power schemes (groups of power settings) let you change power saving options
such as when the monitor or hard drive is automatically turned off. You can
select one of the defined power schemes or create a custom power scheme.
Alarms can alert you when the battery charge is low.
Advanced power settings let you assign different power saving modes to the
power button and Standby key.
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Changing the power scheme
To change the power scheme
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Performance and Maintenance, then click the Power Options icon. The
Power Options Properties dialog box opens.
3Select a power scheme from the Power Scheme list.
- OR -
Set the timers, then save your custom power scheme by clicking Save As
and typing a name for the scheme.
4Save the changes by clicking OK.
Help and
Support For more information on changing power settings, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Changing alarm options
To change the alarm options:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Performance and Maintenance, then click the Power Options icon. The
Power Options Properties dialog box opens.
3Click the Alarms tab.
4Adjust the alarm settings, then save the changes by clicking OK.
Help and
Support For more information on changing power settings, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Changing advanced power management
settings
To change advanced power management settings:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Performance and Maintenance, then click the Power Options icon. The
Power Options Properties dialog box opens.
3Click the Advanced tab.
4Select a power savings mode to be activated by the power button, then
save the changes by clicking OK.
Help and
Support For more information on changing power settings, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Using Hibernate mode
To activate Hibernate mode:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Performance and Maintenance, then click the Power Options icon. The
Power Options Properties dialog box opens.
3Click the Hibernate tab.
4Select the Enable hibernation check box, then click Apply. Hibernate mode
is now an option you can select on the Advanced tab and in the
Turn Off Computer dialog box.
Help and
Support For more information on changing power settings, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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To use Hibernate mode:
■To use hibernation as a power savings mode, open the Power Options
dialog box, click the Power Schemes or Advanced tab, select Hibernate as
one of the power settings, then save the changes by clicking OK.
■To manually place your computer into hibernation, click Start, then click
Turn Off Computer, press and hold SHIFT, then click Hibernate.
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Travel Tips
These tips can make traveling with your notebook more convenient and
trouble-free. This chapter provides information on:
■Using the modem
■Using your radio frequency wireless connections
■Transferring files
■Protecting your notebook from loss and theft
■Managing your notebook’s power efficiently
Tips & Tricks To access the contents of this guide while you are traveling,
download an electronic copy from
www.gateway.com/support/manlib/.
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Modem
■Take a modem cable to connect the modem to telephone jacks. If you
are traveling internationally, take telephone jack adapters or an acoustic
handset coupler.
■Take a telephone line protector.
■Take a telephone line tester to check for unsafe lines, especially if you
are traveling internationally.
■Take remote access information with you so you can connect to your ISP
while outside of your usual calling area. A list of country dialing codes
may be especially useful if you are traveling internationally.
Radio frequency wireless
connections
■Every country has different restrictions on the use of wireless devices. If
your system is equipped with a wireless device, when traveling between
countries with your system, check with the local Radio Approval
authorities prior to your trip for any restrictions on the use of a wireless
device in the destination country.
■If your system came equipped with an internal embedded wireless device,
see “Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information” on page 221 for general
wireless regulatory guidelines.
■Wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial
aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned
off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11B (also known as wireless
Ethernet or WiFi) communication devices are examples of devices which
use wireless to communicate. For more information, see “Turning your
wireless Ethernet on or off” on page 149.
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Files
■Copy your working files from your desktop computer to your notebook
before you travel.
■If you need to access your desktop computer files from your notebook
while traveling, set up the desktop computer for remote access. Contact
your network system administrator for more information about remote
access.
■Take extra diskettes for transferring files between computers and backing
up files.
Security
■Get a locking cable for your notebook so you can attach a cable lock and
leave the notebook in your hotel room while you are away.
■Always keep your notebook with you while waiting in airports, train
stations, or bus terminals. Be ready to claim your notebook as soon as it
passes through the x-ray machine in security checkpoints.
■Write down your notebook model number and serial number (available
on the system label) in case of theft or loss, and keep the information
in a safe place. Also, tape your business card or an address label to your
notebook and accessories.
■Whoever sits next to you or behind you can see your notebook display.
Avoid working with confidential files until you can be sure of privacy.
■Use a startup password to restrict access to your notebook.
Important Use a password that you can remember, but that is difficult
for someone else to guess. The password feature is very
secure, with no easy way to recover a forgotten password.
If you forget your password, you must return your notebook
to Gateway for service. Call Gateway Technical Support for
instructions.
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To create a startup password:
1Restart your notebook. As soon as you see a startup screen, press F2.
The BIOS Setup utility opens.
2Click Security, then select Set Admin password and follow the
instructions.
3Click Security, then select Set User password and follow the
instructions. This is the password you need to enter at startup.
4Exit the BIOS Setup utility by clicking Exit, then selecting Save and
Exit.
5Click OK. When you start your computer, you are prompted to enter
the user password you set in Step 3.
Power
To get the best performance from your notebook, avoid using the battery
whenever possible, monitor the battery charge, and use the most efficient
power management settings.
■For information on conserving battery power, see “Conserving battery
power” on page 97.
■For information on using alternate power sources, see “Using alternate
power sources” on page 97.
■For information on monitoring the battery charge, see “Monitoring the
battery charge” on page 94.
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Customizing
Your Notebook
This chapter provides information about customizing your notebook by
changing settings in Windows.
You can:
■Change screen and display settings
■Change the background and screen saver
■Adjust the touchpad settings
■Program the multi-function buttons on the keyboard
■Allocate system memory
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Adjusting the screen and desktop
settings
Adjusting the color depth and screen area are two of the most basic display
settings you may need to change. You can also adjust settings such as the
screen background and screen saver.
Adjusting the color depth
Color depth is the number of colors your LCD displays. Various image types
require various color depths for optimum appearance on your LCD. For
example, simple color drawings may appear adequately in 256 colors while
color photographs need millions of colors to be displayed with optimum
quality.
Windows lets you choose from several color depth settings for your LCD. We
recommend 16-bit High Color setting be used at all times.
If the color in your images seems “false” or “jumpy,” especially after you have
played a game or run a video-intensive program, check the color depth setting
and return it to 16-bit High Color, if necessary.
To change the color depth:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Appearance and Themes, then click the Display icon. The Display
Properties dialog box opens.
Help and
Support For more information on adjusting the screen and desktop
settings, click Start, then select Help and Support.
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3Click the Settings tab.
4Select a setting from the Color Quality or Colors list.
5To save your changes, click OK, then click Yes.
Adjusting the screen resolution
You can change the screen resolution to a size you prefer. For example, you
can increase the resolution to fit more icons on your desktop, or you can
decrease the resolution to make reading and identifying objects on the display
easier. The higher the resolution, the smaller individual components of the
screen (such as icons and menu bars) appear.
To change the screen resolution:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Appearance and Themes, then click the Display icon. The Display
Properties dialog box opens.
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Applying a color scheme
A color scheme is a set of colors that you can apply to your Windows
environment. For example, you can change the appearance of such things as
the desktop, windows, and dialog boxes. You can select an existing scheme
or create your own.
To select a color scheme:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes.
2Click Display, then click the Appearance tab.
3Select a scheme from the Color Scheme list, then click OK.
Help and
Support For more information on applying a color scheme, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Changing the desktop background
The Windows desktop background picture can be changed. Windows provides
several alternative backgrounds, or you can use pictures that you have created
or retrieved from other sources.
To change the desktop background:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes.
2Click Display, then click the Desktop tab.
Help and
Support For more information on changing the desktop
background, click Start, then select Help and Support.
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3Select a background picture from the Background list.
- OR -
Select a background picture from another location by clicking Browse.
4If you want the picture you chose to cover the entire screen, select Stretch
or Tile from the Position list.
5If the picture you chose does not cover the entire screen and you did
not choose to tile or stretch the image in Step 4, you can change the solid
color behind the picture by selecting a color from the Color list.
6Click OK.
Selecting a screen saver
You can use a screen saver to keep others from viewing your screen while you
are away from your computer. Windows supplies a variety of screen savers
that you can choose from, and many more are available from the Internet
and as commercial products.
To select a screen saver:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Appearance and Themes, then click the Display icon. The Display
Properties dialog box opens.
Help and
Support For more information on changing the screen saver, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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3Click the Screen Saver tab.
4Select a screen saver from the Screen Saver list. Windows previews the
screen saver.
5If you want to customize the screen saver, click Settings and then make
your changes. If the Settings button is not available, you cannot
customize the screen saver you selected.
6If you want to display the Welcome (Login) screen whenever you close
the screen saver, select the On resume, display Welcome screen check box.
7If you want to change the time before the screen saver is activated, click
the up or down arrows next to the Wait box.
8Click OK.
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Changing the touchpad settings
You can adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, left-hand or right-hand
configuration, and other touchpad settings.
To change your touchpad settings:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click the Mouse icon. The Mouse
Properties dialog box opens.
3Click one of the tabs to change your touchpad settings.
4To assign a function to the rocker switch, click the Button Actions tab.
Select the function for the Extended Button One (for the top rocker button)
and Extended Button Two (for the bottom rocker button) from the lists.
5Click OK to save changes.
Help and
Support For more information on changing the mouse settings, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Programming the multi-function
buttons
The Multi-function Keyboard Utility lets you change the actions of some of
the multi-function buttons. For a description of the buttons, see
“Multi-function buttons” on page 24.
To program the multi-function buttons:
1Click Start, select Control Panel, then click Switch to Classic View.
2Click the Multi-function Keyboard icon. The Gateway Multi-function
Keyboard utility window opens.
3Click the tab corresponding to the multi-function button to make
changes to its function. To see which button each tab corresponds to,
see “Multi-function buttons” on page 24.
4Click OK.
Help and
Support For more information on programming the multi-function
buttons, click Start, then select Help and Support.
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Allocating system memory
Graphics memory and system memory share the memory installed in your
notebook. By default, your notebook allocates 8 MB of the total memory to
graphics. Some programs, such as graphic intensive games, may require you
to allocate more memory to graphics. You can choose to allocate up to 32 MB
of the total memory for graphics.
To allocate system memory:
1Restart your notebook. As soon as you see a startup screen, press F2. The
BIOS Setup utility opens.
2Click Advanced, then select Shared memory.
3Select the graphics memory size you want to allocate, then click OK.
4Exit the BIOS Setup utility by clicking Exit, then selecting Save and Exit.
5Click OK.
Caution Increasing the memory allocated to graphics decreases
the system memory. Allocating too much memory to
graphics may adversely affect the performance of your
notebook.
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Upgrading Your
Notebook
This chapter provides information about adding hardware devices to your
notebook, including:
■PC Cards
■Memory
■Hard drive
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Adding PC Cards
Your notebook has one PC Card slot (also known as a PCMCIA card slot). This
slot accepts a single Type II or Type III PC Card.
You do not need to restart your notebook when changing most cards because
your notebook supports hot-swapping. Hot-swapping means that you can
insert a PC Card while your notebook is running. If your PC Card does not
work after hot-swapping, refer to the PC Card manufacturer’s documentation
for further information.
To insert a PC Card:
■Push the card firmly into the bottom of the PC Card slot label-side up
until the outer edge of the card is flush with the side of the notebook.
Help and
Support For more information on adding PC Cards, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
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To remove a PC Card:
1Click the icon on the taskbar, then select the PC Card name and
click Stop.
-OR-
Turn off the notebook.
2Release the eject button by pressing the PC Card eject button once.
3Eject the PC Card by pressing the eject button again.
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Preventing static electricity discharge
The components inside your computer are extremely sensitive to static
electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Before installing memory or replacing the hard drive, follow these guidelines:
■Turn off the computer power.
■Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most electronics stores) and
attach it to a bare metal part of the computer.
■Touch a bare metal surface on the back of the computer.
■Unplug the power cord and modem cable.
■Remove the battery.
Before working with computer components, follow these guidelines:
■Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors, plastic, and packing
foam.
■Remove components from their antistatic bags only when you are ready
to use them. Do not lay components on the outside of antistatic bags
because only the inside of the bags provide electrostatic protection.
■Always hold expansion cards by their edges or their metal mounting
brackets. Avoid touching the edge connectors and components on the
cards. Never slide expansion cards or components over any surface.
Caution ESD can permanently damage electrostatic discharge
sensitive components in the computer. Prevent ESD
damage by following ESD guidelines every time you open
the computer case.
Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and
moving parts, turn off your computer, remove the battery,
and unplug the power cord and modem cable before
opening the case.
Warning To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object
into the vent holes of the notebook.
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Installing memory
Your notebook uses memory modules called SO-DIMMs (Small Outline Dual
Inline Memory Modules). The modules are available in various capacities and
any module can be placed in any available slot. Use PC100 or PC133 memory
modules for upgrading your memory.
To add or replace memory modules:
1Follow the instructions under “Preventing static electricity discharge” on
page 124.
2Shut down your notebook, then disconnect the power adapter and
modem cable.
3Turn the notebook over, then remove the battery. For more information,
see “Changing batteries” on page 96.
Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and
moving parts, turn off your computer, remove the battery,
and unplug the power cord and modem cable before
opening the case. Replace the cover before you restore
power or reconnect the modem cable.
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5If you are removing a module, gently press outward on both clips at either
end of the memory module until the module tilts upward. Pull the
memory module out of the slot.
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6Hold the new or replacement module at a 30-degree angle and press it
into the empty memory slot. This module is keyed so that it can only
be inserted in one direction. If the module does not fit, make sure the
notch in the module lines up with the tab in the memory bay.
7Gently push the module down until it clicks in place.
8Replace the memory bay cover and cover screw, insert the battery,
connect the AC adapter, and turn on your notebook.
Important Use only PC100 (100 MHz) or PC133 (133 MHz) memory
modules.
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Replacing the hard drive
To replace the hard drive:
1Follow the instructions under “Preventing static electricity discharge” on
page 124 for important precautions.
2Shut down your notebook, then disconnect the power adapter and
modem cable.
3Turn the notebook over, then remove the battery. For more information,
see “Changing batteries” on page 96.
4Remove the hard drive screws, then pull the drive kit straight out from
the notebook.
5Place the new hard drive kit in the bay, slide it into the connector, then
replace the screws to secure the hard drive to the notebook.
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Networking
Your Notebook
Connecting your home, small office, or home office computers lets you share
drives, printers, and a single Internet connection among the connected
computers.
This chapter contains information about:
■Benefits of using a network in your home, small office, or home office
■Types of network connections
■Using wireless networking
■Purchasing additional network equipment
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The benefits of using a network
A network lets you:
■Share a single Internet connection
■Share computer drives
■Share peripheral devices
■Stream audio and video files
■Play multi-player games
Sharing a single Internet connection
A network makes sharing the Internet easy. Each computer or Internet
appliance that is connected to the network can share the same modem and
telephone line or broadband connection and access the Internet at the same
time. This saves on the cost of installing another telephone line for your
second computer and paying for a second Internet Service Provider (ISP)
account.
Sharing drives
With a network, you can copy files from computer to computer by copying
and pasting or dragging and dropping. You will no longer waste your time
transferring files by using diskettes. In addition, you can map a drive from a
computer on the network to a drive on another computer, and access the file
as if it were located on the hard drive of the computer you are using.
Important Most ISPs allow multiple users at the same time.
If you use America Online as your ISP, you can:
■Log onto America Online through one of your screen names
and the other computers can access the Internet using an
Internet browser.
■Upgrade your service to AOL for Home Networks. This
service allows more than one of your screen names to be
online through your home network at one time.
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Sharing peripheral devices
Each computer that is connected to the network can share the same peripheral
devices, such as a printer. Select print from the computer you are currently
using and your file is automatically printed on your printer no matter where
it is located on your network.
Streaming audio and video files
With a network, you can store audio files (such as the popular .MP3 files) and
video files on any networked computer, then play them on any of the other
computers or devices connected to your network, a process called streaming.
Playing multi-player games
With a home network, you can play multi-player games. Load a game like
Microsoft Midtown Madness 2 on your computers, and in minutes, you and your
friends can race in competing cars through the streets of San Francisco.
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Selecting a network connection
One of the biggest decisions you will need to make when creating your
network is what type of connection you will use. Gateway supports both wired
and wireless connections.
Wired connections
HPNA (Home Phoneline Networking Alliance) and Ethernet are two popular
types of wired networks.
HPNA
Creating an HPNA network is as easy as knowing where your telephone jacks
and computers are located. HPNA uses your home's standard telephone lines
and telephone jacks instead of special cabling to connect computers. You can
use your networked computers at the same time as you connect to your ISP,
send a fax, or talk on your telephone. For the best performance, your
computers or Internet appliances should have HPNA 2.0 network cards or
jacks for connecting to your network.
Ethernet or Fast Ethernet
Ethernet is a type of connection commonly used in offices around the world.
This type of connection can also be used to build small computer networks
in the home. Ethernet is available at two different speeds: standard Ethernet,
which runs at the same speed as HPNA 2.0, and Fast Ethernet, which runs
up to ten times faster. To create an Ethernet network, you or your electrician
must install special cables in your home or office. Your computers or Internet
appliances must have Ethernet cards or jacks for connecting to a 10 or 10/100
Ethernet switch or hub. If you are connecting just two computers, you can
eliminate the switch or hub and use a special crossover cable.
Important If you have more than one telephone line in your home or
office, make sure that all the computers in your network are
connected to jacks that share the same telephone number.
Important Check local code requirements before installing Ethernet
cable or other wiring in your home or office. Your municipality
may require you to obtain a permit and hire a licensed installer.
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Broadband Internet connections
You can use your computer’s Ethernet or USB jack for more than just
networking. Many broadband Internet connections, such as cable modems
and DSL modems, connect to your computer’s Ethernet or USB jack. Typically,
if one computer is connected to the Internet, other networked computers can
access the Internet through the shared Internet connection. A broadband,
versus dial-up, connection adds speed and an “always on” connection to your
home network.
Wireless Connections
Instead of connecting your computers with wires, you can consider a wireless
networks. Wireless Ethernet is ideal for creating a home or office network.
Wireless Ethernet
A wireless Ethernet network (also known as IEEE 802.11b or WiFi) exceeds
the speed of either HPNA 2.0 or standard Ethernet. In addition, this type of
network allows you the freedom to move about your home or office with your
computer. For example, you can take your notebook computer from your
home office to your patio without having a telephone or Ethernet jack
available.
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 are
examples of devices that provide wireless communication.
Important If your system came equipped with an internal radio
frequency wireless device, see “Safety, Regulatory, and
Legal Information” on page 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).
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Assessing your connection needs
To select the type of network that will work best for you, consider how you
will use your network.
HPNA
An HPNA network is appropriate if:
■Your home, small office, or home office has a telephone jack with the
same telephone number in each room that has a device you want to
connect
■You have several Windows-based computers that are used for drive
sharing, printing to a single printer, or surfing the Internet
■Your notebook computer has one of the following:
■An HPNA jack for connecting to a telephone jack
■A USB port to connect to a HPNA adapter
■Cost savings is more important than network speed
■Your connection speed needs are less than 10000 Kbps (see “Comparing
data transfer speed” on page 139)
Ethernet
An Ethernet or Fast Ethernet network is appropriate if:
■You are building a new home or your existing home already has Ethernet
cable installed in each room that has a device you want to connect
■You are creating a network in an office or business
■Network speed is more important than cost savings
■You have a combination of Windows-based computers and
non-Windows-based computers that are used for drive sharing, printing
to a single printer, or surfing the Internet
■Your notebook computer has an Ethernet jack for connecting to the
network
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Wireless Ethernet (IEEE 802.11b, WiFi)
A wireless Ethernet network is appropriate if:
■You are looking for an alternative to using your telephone line or
installing cable for connectivity
■The ability to move about with your computer is as important as network
speed
■You have several Windows-based computers that are used for drive
sharing, printing to a single printer, or surfing the Internet
■Your notebook computer has wireless Ethernet (IEEE 802.11b) for
networking
■Your connection speed needs are less than 11000 Kbps (see “Comparing
data transfer speed” on page 139)
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Comparing data transfer speed
When deciding between connection types, compare the different data transfer
speeds provided by each to the programs you plan to run on your network.
The following table shows types of programs that you may run in your home
or small office and the connection speed each requires.
The following table shows the Gateway-supported network type and the
maximum speed of each.
When comparing the speed at which your network will need to run to the
speed you can get from the connection type, you should consider which
programs may run at the same time on your network.
For example, you have stored several MP3 audio files on your network. You
typically play music on your desktop, and at the same time your teenager may
play music on her notebook. Playing two MP3 audio files simultaneously
Type of Program Speed Required
Voice over IP (VoIP) 5-20 Kbps
Multiplayer Game 20-80 Kbps
Dial-up Internet 24-56 Kbps
MP3 Audio Streaming 80-200 Kbps
Printer Sharing 80-200 Kbps
Broadband Internet 100-1000 Kbps
File Sharing 300-40000 Kbps
MPEG Video Streaming 4000-8000 Kbps
Connection Type Rated Maximum Speed
HPNA 2.0 Wired 10000 Kbps
Ethernet Wired 10000 Kbps
Wireless Ethernet
(IEEE 802.11b or WiFi) Wireless 11000 Kbps
Fast Ethernet Wired 100,000 Kbps
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requires 200 Kbps + 200 Kbps = 400 Kbps. If at the same time you are playing
two MP3 audio files, you also print a file to your printer, the speed required
increases to 200 Kbps + 200 Kbps + 200 Kbps = 600 Kbps.
A comparison of the two tables on the previous page shows that HPNA 2.0,
Ethernet, and wireless Ethernet can handle most programs on a network. If
you anticipate using a combination of programs that regularly exceed
10000 Kbps, you should consider installing Fast Ethernet for your connection.
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Using a wireless network
Your notebook may have wireless Ethernet networking built-in. The
information in this section tells you how to set up and access a wireless
network. If your notebook does not have wireless networking built-in, and
you are interested in getting networking hardware for your notebook or other
computers to set up a network in your home or office, see “Purchasing
additional network equipment” on page 164.
Using wireless Ethernet
Setting up wireless Ethernet networking
If you have wireless Ethernet, the first time you start your notebook, your
system automatically installs the wireless Ethernet drivers. Immediately
following the initial startup, you may be instructed to run the Network Setup
Wizard.
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 are
examples of devices that provide wireless communication.
For instructions to turn wireless Ethernet on and off, see
“Turning your wireless Ethernet on or off” on page 149.
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).
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To run the Network Setup Wizard:
1Click on the Network Setup Wizard icon on the taskbar. The Network
Setup Wizard opens.
-OR-
Click Start, then select All Programs, Communications, then Network Setup
Wizard. The Network Setup Wizard opens.
2Click Next to continue through the wizard.
Important The following procedure uses the Windows XP Network
Setup Wizard. The example screens show those screens
that typically appear in the course of using the wizard. Your
network situation may differ from that used in this example,
and therefore you may encounter additional screens or
screens with different selections. Make sure you read each
screen in the wizard and make your selections based on
your particular network situation.
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3Click Next. The following screen opens.
4Click to select the Ignore disconnected network hardware checkbox, then
click Next. The following screen opens.
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5Select the method that the notebook accesses the Internet, then click
Next. If you do not see the method you want, click Other for a list of
additional methods, make a selection, then click Next. The following
screen opens.
6Select Let me choose the connections to my network, then click Next. The
following screen opens.
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7Click to select the Wireless Network Connection checkbox, then click Next.
The following screen opens.
8Enter a description of the computer and the name by which the computer
will be identified on the network, then click Next. The following screen
opens.
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9Enter the name of the workgroup this notebook belongs to. This name
is usually assigned by the network system administrator and identifies
which group of computers this notebook is most likely to communicate
with.
10 Click Next. A summary of the network settings you have chosen appears.
11 Click Next to apply the network settings. The following screen opens.
12 If you are setting up a wireless Ethernet network on other computers, you
may want to use the Network Setup Wizard to do so. Select a method
for installing and configuring the network on your other computers and
click Next.
13 Click Finish.
Configuring Windows XP for wireless Ethernet
To configure Windows XP to use the wireless Ethernet network:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Network and Internet Connections. The Network and Internet
Connections window opens.
3Click Network Connections. The Network Connections window opens.
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4Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
5Select Properties. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box
opens.
6Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), then click Properties. The Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP) Properties dialog box opens.
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7Click the General tab.
8If you are using a DHCP server, click Obtain an IP address automatically.
- OR -
If you are not using a DHCP server, click Use the following IP address and
enter the IP Address and Subnet Mask.
9Click OK to close the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box.
10 Click OK to close the Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box.
11 Click X to close the Network Connections window.
Important If you are required to enter an IP Address and Subnet
Mask, ask your network system administrator for the
correct values.
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Turning your wireless Ethernet on or off
There are times, such as when you are flying in an aircraft, when you should
turn off your wireless Ethernet network. You can also turn off wireless Ethernet
to conserve battery power on your notebook.
To turn wireless Ethernet on or off using the switch:
■Press the small black switch located in the center of the wireless indicator.
To turn wireless Ethernet on or off using the Start menu:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Network and Internet Connections. The Network and Internet
Connections window opens.
3Click Network Connections. The Network Connections window opens.
4Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
5Select Enable to turn on wireless Ethernet or Disable to turn off wireless
Ethernet.
Wireless switch
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Creating a wireless Ethernet network
After you have turned on wireless Ethernet networks, you may want to create
a new wireless Ethernet network. You can create either an access point or
peer-to-peer wireless Ethernet network.
Access Point
An access point is a device that allows you to both join a wireless network and
access a wired network at the same time. You can create an access point
wireless network if you purchased an RG1000 or equivalent access point. The
figure below shows an example of an access point network.
To create an access point wireless Ethernet network:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Network and Internet Connections. The Network and Internet
Connections window opens.
3Click Network Connections. The Network Connections window opens.
4Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
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5Select View Available Wireless Networks. The Connect to Wireless Network
dialog box opens.
6Click Advanced. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box
opens.
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8Click Add. The Wireless Network Properties dialog box opens.
9Enter the name of the network. For an access point network, we
recommend entering the name of the access point device followed by
the SSID name found on the back of the access point, for example
RG1000 1ff60a.
10 Click the Data encryption (WEP enabled) check box.
11 Click to clear the The key is provided for me automatically check box.
12 Enter the network key. This key must be the last five digits of the network
name. Example: ff60a.
13 Select ASCII characters from the Key format list.
14 Select 40 bits (5 characters) from the Key length list.
15 Select 0 from the Key index (advanced) list.
16 Make sure that the Network Authentication (Shared mode) check box is not
selected.
17 Make sure that the This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network check
box is not selected.
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21 Click the General tab.
22 If you are using a DHCP server, click Obtain an IP address automatically.
- OR -
If you are not using a DHCP server, click Use the following IP address and
enter the IP Address and Subnet Mask.
23 Click OK to close the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box.
24 Click OK to close the Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box.
Important If you are required to enter an IP Address and Subnet
Mask, ask your network system administrator for the
correct values.
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Peer-to-peer (ad hoc)
Use a peer-to-peer (ad hoc) network if you are setting up or joining a
temporary or permanent computer-to-computer network for sharing files and
peripheral devices. This type of network does not include an access point into
a wired network.
To create a peer-to-peer wireless Ethernet network:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Network and Internet Connections. The Network and Internet
Connections window opens.
3Click Network Connections. The Network Connections window opens.
4Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
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5Select View Available Wireless Networks. The Connect to Wireless Network
dialog box opens.
6Click Advanced. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box
opens.
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8Click Add. The Wireless Network Properties dialog box opens.
9Enter the name of the network. For a peer-to-peer network, this can be
any network name not already in use, for example Adhoc.
10 Click the This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network check box.
11 If an encryption key has been agreed to by the other members of your
network, enter this value.
12 Click OK to close the Wireless Network Properties dialog box.
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16 Click Use the following IP address
17 Enter an IP Address and Subnet Mask for each wireless computer on your
ad hoc network. The IP Address for computer 1 should end with a 1 and
the IP Address for computer 2 should end with a 2.
18 Click OK to close the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box.
19 Click OK to close the Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box.
Connecting to a wireless Ethernet network in Windows XP
To connect to an existing wireless Ethernet network:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Network and Internet Connections. The Network and Internet
Connections window opens.
3Click Network Connections. The Network Connections window opens.
4Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
Example IP address
and subnet mask for
Example IP address
and subnet mask for
wireless computer 2
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5Select View Available Wireless Networks. The Connect to Wireless Network
dialog box opens.
6Select the network you want to connect to, then click Connect.
Checking network signal strength
If your wireless Ethernet network is running slower than you expect, you
should check your network signal strength.
To check signal strength of your wireless Ethernet network:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Network and Internet Connections. The Network and Internet
Connections window opens.
3Click Network Connections. The Network Connections window opens.
4Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
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5Select Status. The Wireless Network Connection Status dialog box opens.
The meter registers the signal strength for wireless Ethernet on your
notebook if other computers with the same network name are within
range of your notebook.
Important Signal strength is affected by the distance between your
wireless network devices, by radio interference, and
interference from natural obstructions such as walls, floors,
and doors.
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Purchasing additional network
equipment
Use the following shopping lists when purchasing equipment for your
network.
HPNA
For an HPNA network you need:
■An HPNA card installed in each
desktop computer
- OR -
An HPNA/V.90 combination card
installed in each desktop computer
- OR -
A USB HPNA adapter attached to
each desktop or notebook
computer
- OR -
An HPNA PC Card installed in each notebook computer
■Modem cable going from each computer to the closest telephone jack
Important All HPNA components should be HPNA 2.0. A mixture of
HPNA 1.0 and HPNA 2.0 components will result in your
network running at a slower speed.
HPNA card
USB HPNA adapter
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Ethernet
For an Ethernet network you need:
■An Ethernet card installed
in each desktop computer
- OR -
An Ethernet jack on each
desktop and notebook
computer
- OR -
An Ethernet PC Card installed in each notebook computer
■An Ethernet hub or switch with enough ports for each computer and
device in the network (hubs are slightly cheaper than switches but may
run slower than switches)
■Ethernet cable going from each computer to the hub or switch
Important All Ethernet components should be either standard Ethernet
(10 Mbps) or Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps). A mixture of Ethernet
and Fast Ethernet components will result in your network
running at the slower speed.
Ethernet card and hub
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Wireless Ethernet
For a wireless Ethernet network you need:
■A wireless Ethernet (IEEE 802.11b) PCI
card installed in each desktop
computer
- OR -
A wireless Ethernet (IEEE 802.11b) PC
Card installed in each notebook
computer that does not have wireless
Ethernet built-in
■A wireless Ethernet (IEEE 802.11b)
Access Point if you want to connect
your wireless Ethernet to the Internet
or a wired network
For more information
For more information about the Gateway Connected Home or networking an
office, discuss your particular needs with your Gateway Country Store
representative. In addition, several books and Internet sites are dedicated to
networking. Refer to these sources for more information about networking
your home or office with HPNA, Ethernet, or Wireless Ethernet.
Wireless Ethernet PCI card
Wireless Ethernet PC card
Wireless Ethernet Access Point
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Moving from
Your Old
Computer
Transferring software and hardware
from your old computer
If your new computer is replacing an old computer, you may have personal
data files, Internet settings, a printer or other peripheral devices, and other
unique computer settings that you want to move from your old computer to
your new one.
Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
You can move your data files and personal settings from your old computer
to your new one by using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can take
your display, Internet, and e-mail settings from your old computer and
transfer them to the new one. The wizard also moves specific files or entire
folders, such as My Documents, My Pictures, and Favorites.
To open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard:
■Click Start, select All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then Files and
Settings Transfer Wizard.
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Transferring files
You can manually transfer your personal data files by
copying them to removable media, such as a diskette, CD,
or Zip disk, or by using a home network. For more
information, see “Networking Your Notebook” on
page 131.
Finding your files
Many programs automatically save your personal data files in the
My Documents folder. Look in your old computer’s My Documents folder for
personal data files. Use Windows Search to locate other personal data files.
To find files in the My Documents folder:
1Click Start, then select My Computer.
2Double-click the C:\ drive icon. The C:\ window opens.
3Double-click the My Documents folder. The My Documents window opens.
You can often identify different data file types by looking at the file’s extension
(the part of the file name following the last period). For example, a document
file might have a .DOC extension.
File type File usually ends in...
Documents .DOC, .TXT, .RTF, .HTM, .HTML, .DOT
Spreadsheets .XLS, .XLT, .TXT
Pictures .JPG, .BMP, .GIF, .PDF, .PCT, .TIF, .PNG
Movies .MPEG, .MPG, .AVI, .GIF, .MOV
Sound and Music .WAV, .CDA, .MP3, .MID, .MIDI
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To find files using Search:
1Click Start, then select Search, then All Files or Folders. The Search Results
window opens.
2Use Windows Search to locate data files by file name or file type. For help
on finding files, select Help, then select Help Topics.
Transferring Internet settings
You can use different methods to transfer your Internet
account from your old computer to your new one.
Setting up your ISP
■If your current Internet Service Provider (ISP) software came preinstalled
on your new computer, run that setup program. If it asks to set up a new
account or an existing one, choose to reconnect to an existing account.
■If your current ISP software is not preinstalled on your new computer,
locate the original Internet setup program provided by your local ISP, or
contact your ISP to see if they have an updated version of their software,
and install it on your new computer.
■If you use MSN as your ISP, or if you know your ISP settings, use the
Windows Internet Connection Wizard.
To use the Internet Connection Wizard:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, Accessories, Communications, then
New Connection Wizard. The New Connection Wizard window opens.
2Configure your Internet settings by following the on-screen instructions.
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Transferring your e-mail and address book
Refer to your old e-mail program’s online help for information on exporting
and importing e-mail messages and the address book. You can often export all
of your old e-mail messages or address book to a diskette, then import them
from the diskette into your new computer’s e-mail program. Alternatively, you
may want to consider simply printing the old information or e-mailing it to
yourself.
Transferring your Internet shortcuts
You can export and import your old bookmarks (Netscape Navigator) or
favorites (Microsoft Internet Explorer). For more information, refer to your
Internet browser program’s online help.
Reinstalling your old printer or scanner
Older printers, scanners, or other peripheral devices may
have Windows support integrated (built in), which means
you do not need any additional software. Newer devices,
however, usually require your original software
installation CDs or diskettes.
Reinstalling a USB printer or scanner
USB devices may have special installation instructions. Refer to your USB
device’s installation guide.
Reinstalling a parallel port printer
You can usually install parallel port printers by following these steps.
To reinstall your old printer:
1Exit Windows and turn off your computer.
2Connect your parallel port printer.
3Turn on your printer, then your computer.
4If Windows detects your printer, install your printer by following the
on-screen instructions. You are finished.
- OR -
If Windows does not detect the printer, go to the next step.
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5Click Start, then select Control Panel. If you do not see the Printers and
Faxes icon, click Switch to Classic View.
6Click/double-click the Printers and Faxes icon, then click Add a printer. The
Add Printer Wizard window opens.
7Install your printer by following the on-screen instructions.
Refer to your peripheral device’s user guide for installation information and
tips. Because most installation software is periodically updated, you should
also check the manufacturer’s Web site for driver updates.
Reinstalling your old programs
You probably use some programs that did not come
installed on your new computer, such as personal finance
software, graphics programs, or games.
Spend some time going through your old computer’s Start and Programs
menus, making note of any programs you want to install on your new
computer. Locate your original program installation CDs and installation
guides. Your original CDs and guides should contain any serial numbers or
product ID keys that may be required for program installation and
registration. Remember to check the manufacturer’s Web site for important
program updates.
Tips & Tricks If your new computer comes with a newer version of a
program, it is usually best to use the newer version than
to reinstall the old one.
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Maintaining
Your Notebook
This chapter provides basic information about maintaining your computer
hardware and software.
Caring for your computer
To extend the life of your system:
■Be careful not to bump or drop your computer, and do not put any objects
on top of it. The case, although strong, is not made to support extra
weight.
■When transporting your computer, we recommend that you put it in a
carrying case.
■Keep diskettes, modular drives, and your computer away from magnetic
fields. Magnetic fields can erase data on both diskettes and hard drives.
■Never turn off your computer when the hard drive indicator is on because
data on the hard drive could be lost or corrupted.
■Avoid subjecting your computer to extreme temperature changes. The
case or LCD can become very brittle and easy to break in cold
temperatures and can melt or warp in high temperatures. Damage due
to either extreme is not covered by your warranty. As a general rule, your
computer is safest at temperatures that are comfortable for you.
■Keep all liquids away from your computer. When spilled onto computer
components, almost any liquid can result in extremely expensive repairs
that are not covered under your warranty.
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■Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt can clog the
internal mechanisms.
■Set up a regular maintenance schedule according to the table below to
keep your computer running at its best.
Maintenance task Immediately
after purchase Monthly When needed See...
Create an emergency diskette X page 175
Check for viruses X X page 177
Manage hard drive space X page 179
Clean up hard drives X X page 180
Scan hard drive for errors X X page 181
Defragment hard drive X X page 182
Back up files X X page 184
Recalibrate the battery X page 95
Clean computer case X page 186
Clean keyboard X page 187
Clean screen X page 187
Clean mouse X page 187
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Creating an emergency startup
diskette
An emergency startup diskette is a diskette that contains critical information that
you need to start your computer if Windows fails to start. You should create
a startup diskette as soon as you get your computer.
To create an emergency startup diskette:
1Place a blank diskette labeled Startup into the diskette drive.
2Click Start, then select My Computer. The My Computer window opens.
3Right-click 3½ Floppy (A:), then select Format. The Format 3½ Floppy (A:)
dialog box opens.
4Select Create an MS-DOS Startup Disk, then click Start. Windows copies files
to the emergency startup diskette.
Help and
Support For more information on creating an emergency startup
diskette, click Start, then select Help and Support.
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5When Windows finishes copying files, remove the diskette from the
diskette drive.
6To prevent the diskette from being erased or infected by viruses, you
should write-protect it by sliding the write-protect tab up.
7Store your emergency startup diskette in a safe place with your other
backup software media.
Not write-
protected Write-
protected
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Protecting your computer from
viruses
A virus is a program that attaches itself to a file on a computer, then spreads
from one computer to another. Viruses can damage data or cause your
computer to malfunction. Some viruses go undetected for a period of time,
because they are activated on a certain date.
Protect your computer from a virus by:
■Using your Norton® AntiVirus program to check files and programs that
are on diskettes, attached to e-mail messages, or downloaded from the
Internet.
■Checking all programs for viruses before installing them.
■Disabling macros on suspicious Microsoft Word and Excel files. These
programs will warn you if a document that you are opening contains a
macro that might have a virus.
■Periodically updating your Norton AntiVirus program to protect against
the latest viruses.
To scan for viruses:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, Norton AntiVirus, then Norton
AntiVirus 2002. Norton AntiVirus opens.
2Click Scan for Viruses.
3Select the type of scan you want to make in the Scan area, then under
Actions, click Scan.
Help and
Support For more information on protecting your computer from
viruses, click Start, then select Help and Support.
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To remove a virus:
1Find and remove the virus immediately using Norton AntiVirus.
2Turn off your computer and leave it off for at least 30 seconds.
3Turn on the computer and rescan for the virus.
To update Norton AntiVirus:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, Norton AntiVirus, then LiveUpdate -
Norton AntiVirus. The LiveUpdate wizard opens.
2Follow the on-screen instructions to update your Norton AntiVirus
program with the latest virus protection files.
3When the program has finished updating, click Finish.
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Managing hard drive space
Windows provides several utilities you can use to manage your hard drive.
Checking hard drive space
To check hard drive space:
1Click Start, then select My Computer.
2Right-click the drive that you want to check for available file space, then
select Properties. Drive space information appears.
Help and
Support For more information on checking hard drive space, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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Using Disk Cleanup
Delete unneeded files such as temporary Windows files to free hard drive
space.
To use the Windows Disk Cleanup program:
1Click Start, then select My Computer. The My Computer window opens.
2Right-click the hard drive that you want to delete files from, then select
Properties. The System Properties dialog box opens at the General tab.
3Click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog box opens.
Help and
Support For more information on using Disk Cleanup, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
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4Select the check box beside each file type you want to delete. For more
information about file types you can delete, read the descriptions in the
Disk Cleanup dialog box.
5Click OK, then click Yes.
Checking the hard drive for errors
The Error-checking program examines the hard drive for physical flaws and
file and folder problems. This program corrects file and folder problems and
marks flawed areas on the hard drive so that Windows does not use them.
If you use your computer several hours every day, you probably want to run
Error-checking once a week. If you use your computer less frequently, once
a month may be adequate. Also use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive
problems.
To check the hard drive for errors:
1Click Start, then select My Computer.
2Right-click the hard drive that you want to check for errors, then select
Properties. The System Properties dialog box opens.
Help and
Support For more information on checking the hard drive for errors,
click Start, then select Help and Support.
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3Click the Tools tab.
4Click Check Now.
5Select the options to use, then click Start. For help, press F1. Windows
checks the drive for errors. This process may take several minutes.
6Correct any problems that are found by following the on-screen
instructions. After Windows has finished checking the drive for errors,
it provides a summary of the problems that it found.
7Click OK.
Defragmenting the hard drive
When working with files, sometimes Windows divides the file information
into pieces and stores them in different places on the hard drive. This is called
fragmentation, and it is normal. In order for the computer to use a file,
Windows must search for the pieces of the file and put them back together.
This process slows the hard drive performance.
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The Disk Defragmenter program organizes the data on the drive so that each
file is stored as one unit rather than as multiple pieces scattered across
different areas of the drive. Defragmenting the information stored on the drive
can improve hard drive performance.
While the Disk Defragmenter program is running, do not use your keyboard
or mouse because using them may continuously stop and restart the
defragmenting process. Also, if you are connected to a network, log off before
starting Disk Defragmenter. Network communication may stop the
defragmentation process and cause it to start over.
To run Disk Defragmenter:
1Click Start, then select My Computer.
2Right-click the hard drive that you want to defragment, then select
Properties. The System Properties dialog box opens.
3Click the Tools tab.
Help and
Support For more information on defragmenting your hard drive,
click Start, then select Help and Support.
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4Click Defragment Now.
5If Disk Defragmenter does not start automatically, click Defragment.
Disk Defragmenter shows its progress on the screen. When finished, Disk
Defragmenter asks if you want to quit the program.
6Click Close.
Backing up files
Backing up files and removing them from the hard drive frees space for new
files on the hard drive. It also protects you from losing important information
if the hard drive fails or you accidentally delete files.
You should back up your files regularly to a writable CD (if you have a CD-R
or CD-RW drive) or to diskettes. Use a backup device, such as a CD-R, CD-RW,
or Zip drive, to do a complete hard drive backup. If you do not have a
high-capacity backup device and you want to purchase one, you can contact
Gateway’s Add-on Sales department or visit our Web site at www.gateway.com.
Help and
Support For more information on backing up files, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
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Using the Scheduled Task Wizard
The Scheduled Task Wizard lets you schedule maintenance tasks such as
running Disk Defragmenter and Error-checking.
To start the Scheduled Task Wizard:
1Click Start, then select All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then
Scheduled Tasks. The Scheduled Tasks window opens.
2Double-click Add Scheduled Task. The Scheduled Tasks Wizard opens.
3Click Next, then select the Scheduled Task Wizard option you want to
create and follow the screen prompts to customize the task.
Help and
Support For more information on using the Scheduled Task Wizard,
click Start, then select Help and Support.
Important Your computer must be on during scheduled
tasks.
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Cleaning your computer
Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your
system performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put
together a computer cleaning kit:
■A soft cloth
■An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like extension
■Isopropyl alcohol
■Cotton swabs
■A CD/DVD drive cleaning kit
Cleaning the exterior
Always turn off the computer and other peripheral devices, and remove the
battery, before cleaning any components.
Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean the computer and other parts of your
system. Do not use abrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damage the
finish on components.
Your computer is cooled by air circulated through the vents on the case, so
keep the vents free of dust. With the computer turned off and unplugged,
brush the dust away from the vents with a damp cloth. Be careful not to drip
any water into the vents. Do not attempt to clean dust from inside the
computer.
Warning When you shut down your computer, the power turns off,
but some electrical current still flows through the computer.
To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and
moving parts, turn off your computer, remove the battery,
and unplug the power cord and modem cable before
opening the case.
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Cleaning the keyboard
You should clean the keyboard occasionally by using an aerosol can of air with
a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.
If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off the computer and turn the unit
upside down. Let the liquid drain, then let the keyboard dry before trying to
use it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to
replace it.
Cleaning the screen
Use a soft cloth and water to clean the screen. Squirt a little water on the
cloth (never directly on the screen), and wipe the screen with the cloth.
Cleaning the mouse
If you have a mouse and the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across
the screen or becomes difficult to control precisely, then cleaning the mouse
will likely improve its accuracy.
To clean your mouse:
1Turn the mouse upside down.
2Rotate the retaining ring on the bottom of the mouse counter-clockwise.
Caution An LCD screen is made of specially coated glass and can
be scratched or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based
window cleaners.
Help and
Support For a video demonstration on cleaning the mouse, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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3Remove the retaining ring and mouse ball.
4Remove any dust, lint, or dirt from the mouse ball with a soft cloth.
5Clean the mouse rollers with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
6Replace the mouse ball and lock the retaining ring into place.
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Restoring
Software
Reinstalling device drivers
Device drivers are programs that control devices such as monitors, CD/DVD
drives, and modems. Drivers translate information between computer devices
and programs.
Drivers for your original computer hardware are installed at Gateway. If you
install a new device, you need to install the drivers provided by the device
manufacturer.
You should reinstall device drivers:
■If directed to do so while troubleshooting
■If you see a message indicating that there is a problem with a device driver
If you are not comfortable with the procedures covered in this section, seek
help from a more experienced computer user or a computer service technician.
Reinstall the device drivers if you are directed to do so while troubleshooting
or if a message tells you that there is a problem with a device driver.
Help and
Support For more information on reinstalling device drivers, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
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To reinstall device drivers:
1Place Disc 1 of the System Restoration Kit into your CD/DVD drive. The
System Restoration Kit program starts. Go to Step 5.
- OR -
If the program does not start automatically, go to Step 2.
2Click Start, then select Run. The Run dialog box opens.
3In the Open text box, type D:\RUNMENU.EXE (where D is the drive letter
of your CD/DVD drive).
4Click OK. The System Restoration Kit program starts.
5If the Welcome to the System Restoration Kit window opens, close it by
clicking OK.
6Click the Reinstall tab.
7If there is a Find More button at the bottom of the window, complete
the list of available device drivers by clicking Find More and following the
on-screen instructions.
8Click Automatic Installation, then select multiple device drivers to reinstall.
- OR -
Click Manual Installation, then select a single device driver to reinstall.
9Click Install.
10 Follow any additional on-screen instructions. Depending on the device
driver you are reinstalling, you may only need to restart your computer
to complete the installation. However, if a setup wizard opens when you
restart your computer, follow the on-screen instructions.
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Updating device drivers
The System Restoration Kit contains a device driver update utility that works
over the Internet. If you do not have an Internet Service Provider, the update
utility works by direct dialing the device driver update service.
To update device drivers:
1Place Disc 1 of the System Restoration Kit into your CD/DVD drive. The
System Restoration Kit program starts. Go to Step 5.
- OR -
If the program does not start automatically, go to Step 2.
2Click Start, then select Run. The Run dialog box opens.
3In the Open text box, type D:\RUNMENU.EXE (where D is the drive letter
of your CD/DVD drive).
4Click OK. The System Restoration Kit program starts.
5If the Welcome to the System Restoration Kit window opens, close it by
clicking OK.
6Click the Update tab.
Help and
Support For more information on updating device drivers, click
Start, then select Help and Support.
Important If your system came equipped with a wireless device, only
use the drivers approved for the country the device will be
used in. See the Gateway System Restoration Kit or the
Gateway Technical Support Web site.
If your system came equipped with an internal embedded
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).
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7Click Check Now. The Connect window opens.
8Install available updated device drivers by following the on-screen
instructions. Depending on the device driver you are updating, you may
only need to restart your computer to complete the installation. However,
if a setup wizard opens when you restart your computer, follow the
on-screen instructions.
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Reinstalling Windows
If your computer is not working properly, try the following options to correct
the problem:
■Reinstalling device drivers. For more information, see “Reinstalling device
drivers” on page 189.
■Troubleshooting. For more information, see “Troubleshooting” on
page 197.
If the options above do not correct the problem, you can use the System
Restoration Kit to reinstall Windows and other software.
Reinstalling Windows
The System Restoration Kit steps you through reinstalling Windows. The System
Restoration Kit automatically reinstalls the hardware device drivers and some
programs as well.
To reinstall Windows and the device drivers:
1Place Disc 2 of the System Restoration Kit in the CD/DVD drive. If you have
an additional recordable/rewritable CD drive, make sure you do not put
the System Restoration CD in it.
2Restart the computer.
3Follow the on-screen instructions.
Help and
Support For more information on reinstalling Windows, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
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Reinstalling programs
If you have problems running a program or if you have reinstalled your
operating system, you can reinstall programs from the System Restoration Kit
and the program CDs. Follow the installation instructions on each CD.
To reinstall a program from the System Restoration Kit:
1Place Disc 1 of the System Restoration Kit into your CD/DVD drive. The
System Restoration Kit program starts. Go to Step 5.
- OR -
If the program does not start automatically, go to Step 2.
2Click Start, then select Run. The Run dialog box opens.
3In the Open text box, type D:\RUNMENU.EXE (where D is the drive letter
of your CD/DVD drive).
4Click OK. The System Restoration Kit program starts.
5If the Welcome to the System Restoration Kit window opens, close it by
clicking OK.
6Click the Reinstall tab.
7If there is a Find More button at the bottom of the window, complete
the list of available programs by clicking Find More and following the
on-screen instructions.
8Click Automatic Installation, then select multiple programs to reinstall.
- OR -
Click Manual Installation, then select a single program to reinstall.
Help and
Support For more information on reinstalling programs, click Start,
then select Help and Support.
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9Click Install.
10 Follow any additional on-screen instructions. Depending on the program
you are reinstalling, you may only need to restart your computer to
complete the installation. However, if a setup wizard opens when you
restart your computer, follow the on-screen instructions.
To reinstall a program from a CD:
1Place the program CD in your CD/DVD drive.
2Complete the program reinstallation by following the instructions
included with the program CD.
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Troubleshooting
This chapter provides some solutions to common computer problems. Use the
information to troubleshoot and correct typical hardware and software issues.
This chapter also includes information about:
■Telephone support
■Automated troubleshooting systems
■Tutoring and training
If the suggestions in this chapter do not correct the problem, see “Getting
Help” on page 31 for more information about how to get help.
Help and
Support For more information on troubleshooting, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
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Safety guidelines
While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines:
■Never remove the hard drive or memory bay cover while your computer
is turned on, while the battery is installed, and while the modem cable
and AC power adapter are connected.
■Make sure you are correctly grounded before accessing internal
components. For more information about preventing damage from static
electricity, see “Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 124.
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Troubleshooting
First steps
If you have problems with your computer, try these things first:
■Make sure that the AC power adapter is connected to your computer and
an AC outlet and that the AC outlet is supplying power.
■If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure it is turned on.
■If a peripheral device (such as a keyboard or mouse) does not work, make
sure that all connections are secure.
■Make sure that your hard drive is not full.
■If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message.
The message may help Gateway Technical Support in diagnosing and
fixing the problem.
■If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the installation
procedures you performed and make sure you followed each instruction.
■If an error occurs in a program, consult the program’s printed
documentation or the online help.
Important Do not try to troubleshoot your problem if power cords or
plugs are damaged, if your computer was dropped, or if
the cabinet was damaged. Instead, unplug your computer
and contact a qualified computer technician.
Help and
Support For more information on troubleshooting, click Start, then
select Help and Support.
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Software support tools
Your system may include the following support tool to help you diagnose and
fix problems:
■PC Doctor is a comprehensive hardware diagnostic and system
information tool that can test your computer and determine its
configuration. PC Doctor provides 85 professional diagnostic tests
directly from your computer.
This support tool is available from HelpSpot or by clicking Start, then selecting
All Programs, then Gateway Utilities.
Help and
Support For more information on PC Doctor, click Start, then select
Help and Support.
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CD/DVD drive
The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD/DVD drive
■The disc may not be correctly seated in the tray. When you place a disc
on the tray, make sure that you press the disc firmly onto the spindle so
that the retainers hold the disc in place.
■Make sure the disc label is facing up.
■Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed and cannot be read by
the drive.
■Clean the disc. For more information, see “To clean a CD or DVD:” on
page 202.
■Your computer may be experiencing some temporary memory problems.
Shut down and restart your computer.
An audio CD does not produce sound
■Make sure the CD label is facing up.
■Make sure the volume controls are turned up. For more information, see
“Adjusting the volume” on page 70 and “Listening to CDs” on page 73.
■Make sure mute controls are turned off.
To make sure mute is turned off:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click Adjust the system
volume. Make sure that the Mute check box is not selected. For more
information about the mute setting, see “Adjusting the volume” on
page 70.
■Clean the CD. For more information, see “To clean a CD or DVD:” on
page 202.
■Your computer may be experiencing some temporary memory problems.
Shut down and restart your computer.
■Reinstall the audio device drivers. For more information, see “Reinstalling
device drivers” on page 189.
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A DVD movie will not play
■Make sure the label is facing up.
■Shut down and restart your computer.
■The DVD’s regional code and your computer’s regional code may not
match. Regional codes help control DVD title exports and help reduce
illegal disc distribution. To be able to play a DVD, the regional code on
the disc and the regional code for the DVD drive must match.
The regional code on your DVD drive is determined by delivery address
for your computer. The regional code for the disc is on the disc, disc
documentation, or packaging.
To clean a CD or DVD:
■Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle, using a
product made especially for the purpose.
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Device installation
You have computer problems after adding a new device
Sometimes a new device, such as a PC Card, can cause a system resource (IRQ)
conflict. Check IRQ usage to determine if there is an IRQ conflict.
To check IRQ usage:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel, then Performance and
Maintenance.
2Click System, click the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager. The
Device Manager opens.
3Click View, select Resources by type, then double-click Interrupt request
(IRQ). All IRQs and their hardware assignments are displayed.
To free IRQ resources for the new device:
1In the Device Manager, check the device list for a resource conflict.
A resource conflict appears as a black exclamation point in a yellow
circle.
2Remove the device you are trying to install, then determine which
one of the existing devices or ports you can disable.
3Right-click the device or port you want to disable, then select Disable.
The device or port is disabled.
Diskette drive
The diskette drive is not recognized
■Shut down and restart your computer.
You receive a “Access Denied” or “Write protect” error message
■Move the write-protection tab in the upper-right corner of the diskette
down (unprotected).
■The diskette may be full. Delete unnecessary files on the diskette and try
again.
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■Not all diskettes are IBM-compatible. Make sure the diskette you are using
is IBM-compatible.
■Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are flawed and cannot be
read by the diskette drive.
You receive a “Disk is full” error message
■Delete unnecessary files on the diskette.
■Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are flawed and cannot be
read by the diskette drive.
■Run Error-checking on the diskette. For more information, see “Checking
the hard drive for errors” on page 181. If errors are detected and corrected,
try using the diskette again.
You receive a “Non-system disk” or “Disk error” error message
■Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press ENTER.
■Make sure the diskette you are using is IBM-compatible.
The indicator on the diskette drive is lit continuously
■Remove the diskette from the drive. If the indicator stays on, try restarting
your computer.
Error-checking
When you started your computer, it ran Error-checking
The computer probably had its power interrupted or was incorrectly shut
down. Windows automatically runs Error-checking at startup when the
computer was incorrectly shut down.
Error-checking fixes errors on the hard drive to minimize data loss. To prevent
Error-checking from running when you start your computer, make sure you
always shut down by selecting Turn Off Computer from the Start menu.
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File management
A file was accidentally deleted
To restore deleted files:
1Double-click the Recycle Bin icon.
2Right-click the file you want to restore, then select Restore. The file
is restored to the place where it was originally deleted from.
If the Recycle Bin was emptied before you tried to restore a file, the
file cannot be recovered.
Hard drive
You receive an “Insufficient disk space” error message
■Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk Cleanup. For
more information, see “Using Disk Cleanup” on page 180.
■Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the Recycle Bin icon and selecting
Empty Recycle Bin from the pop-up menu.
■If possible, save your files to a diskette or another drive.
■If the hard drive is full, copy any files not regularly used to diskettes or
other backup media, then delete them from the hard drive.
You receive a “Data error” message
■This may be the result of a defective area on the hard drive. To fix hard
drive problems, run the Error-checking program. For more information,
see “Checking the hard drive for errors” on page 181.
Caution All deleted files will be lost when you empty the
Recycle Bin.
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The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you receive a “General failure
reading drive C” error message
■If a diskette is in the diskette drive, eject it and restart the computer.
■Make sure that the hard drive is correctly installed. Remove it, firmly
reinsert it, then restart your computer. For more information, see
“Replacing the hard drive” on page 129.
■If your computer has been subjected to static electricity or physical shock,
you may need to reinstall the operating system.
Internet
You cannot connect to the Internet
■Make sure your computer is connected to the telephone line and the
telephone line has a dial tone. See “Connecting the modem” on page 28
to make sure that the connections have been made correctly.
■If you have the call waiting feature on your telephone line, make sure
it is disabled.
■Make sure your account with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is set
up correctly. Contact your ISP technical support for help.
■Make sure you do not have a problem with your modem. For information
about solving modem problems, see “Modem” on page 208.
You receive an “Unable to locate host” message and are unable to
browse the Internet
This problem can occur when you have typed a URL (Web address) incorrectly,
you have lost your Internet connection, or your ISP is having technical
difficulties.
■Double-check the URL or try a different URL.
■If the error message still appears, disconnect from the ISP connection and
close your browser, then reconnect and open the browser. If you still get
the error, your ISP may be having technical difficulties.
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Connecting to a Web site takes too long
Many factors can affect Internet performance:
■The condition of the telephone lines in your residence or at your local
telephone company
■The condition of the Internet computers to which you connect and
the number of users accessing those computers
■The complexity of graphics and multimedia on Web pages
■Having multiple Web browsers open, performing multiple downloads,
and having multiple programs open on your computer
People are sending you e-mail messages, but you have not received
any mail
■Click the receive button in your e-mail program.
■Make sure your account with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is set
up correctly. Contact your ISP technical support for help.
Keyboard
The external keyboard does not work
■Make sure the keyboard cable is plugged in correctly.
■Try a keyboard that you know works to make sure the keyboard port
works.
■If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off the computer and unplug
the keyboard. Clean the keyboard and turn it upside down to drain it.
Let the keyboard dry before using it again.
A keyboard character keeps repeating or you receive a “Keyboard
stuck” or “Key failure” error message
■Make sure that nothing is resting on the keyboard.
■Make sure a key is not stuck. Press each key to loosen a key that might
be stuck, then restart the computer.
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LCD panel
The screen resolution is not correct
■Change the screen resolution and color depth from the Display Properties
dialog box. For more information, see “Adjusting the color depth” on
page 110 and “Adjusting the screen resolution” on page 111.
The text on the display is dim or difficult to read
■Move the computer away from sources of electrical interference such as
televisions, unshielded speakers, microwaves, fluorescent lights, and
metal beams or shelves.
■Change the display settings. For more information, see “Adjusting the
screen and desktop settings” on page 110.
Memory
You receive a “Memory error” message
■Make sure the memory modules are inserted correctly in the memory bay
slot. For more information, see “Installing memory” on page 125.
■Use diagnostic programs to help determine if a memory module is failing.
For more information, see “Installing memory” on page 125.
You receive a “Not enough memory” error message
■Close all programs, then restart the computer.
Modem
Your modem does not dial or does not connect
■Make sure your computer is connected to the telephone line and the
telephone line has a dial tone. See “Connecting the modem” on page 28
to make sure that the connections have been made correctly.
■Make sure that the modem cable is less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) long.
■Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your telephone line,
then check for a dial tone by plugging a working telephone into the
telephone wall jack.
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■If you have additional telephone services such as call waiting, call
messaging, or voice mail, make sure that all messages are cleared and call
waiting is disabled before using the modem. Contact your telephone
service to get the correct code to temporarily disable the service. Also
make sure the modem dialing properties are set appropriately.
To check the dialing properties:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. If you do not see the Phone and
Modem Options icon, click Switch to Classic View.
2Click/double-click the Phone and Modem Options icon, then click the
Dialing Rules tab.
3Select the location from which you are dialing, then click Edit.
4Make sure all settings are correct.
■Disconnect any answering machine, fax machine, or printer that is on
the same line as the modem. You should not have these devices plugged
into the same telephone line as the modem.
■Make sure that you are not using a digital, rollover, or PBX line. These
lines do not work with your modem.
■Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping sounds). Line noise
is a common problem that can cause the modem to connect at a slower
rate, abort downloads, or even disconnect. The faster the modem, the
less line noise it can tolerate and still work correctly.
■Listen to the line using your telephone. Dial a single number (such as 1).
When the dial tone stops, listen for line noise. Wiggle the modem cable
to see if that makes a difference. Make sure the connectors are free from
corrosion and all screws in the wall or telephone wall jack are secure.
■You can also call your telephone service and have them check the
telephone line for noise or low line levels.
■Try another telephone line (either a different telephone number in your
house or a telephone line at a different location). If you can connect on
this line, call your telephone company.
■Try connecting with the modem at a lower connection speed. If reducing
the connect speed lets you connect, contact your telephone company.
The telephone line may be too noisy.
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You cannot connect to the Internet
■The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact your ISP technical
support for help.
■See if the modem works with a different communications program. The
problem may be with just one program.
Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K
Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public
telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise, telephone service
provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may lower the speed even further.
If your system has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you can upload (send)
data is limited to 33.6K. If your system has a v.92 modem, the speed at which
you can upload data is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads.
You can check modem connection speeds and dial-up network (DUN)
connections by accessing the gateway.your.way dial-up server. The server also
contains drivers, patches, and updates for current Gateway hardware and
software.
The server provides a secure connection and is a stand-alone server. You
cannot use it to access the Internet. The server cannot be accessed Mondays
from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CST.
To access the gateway.your.way dial-up server:
1Insert Disc 1 of the System Restoration Kit.
2Select Help.
3Click Support Web Site, then follow the on-screen instructions.
4To check your modem connection speed, select the Direct Dial option.
After your modem connects, move the mouse cursor over the Dial-Up
Networking icon (located next to the clock on your Taskbar), your
modem connection speed appears.
Your fax communications program only sends and receives faxes at
14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem
Current fax technology only supports a maximum send and receive rate of
14,400 bps.
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The modem is not recognized by the computer
■Make sure the line connected to the modem is working and plugged into
the appropriate port on the modem. See “Connecting the modem” on
page 28 to make sure that the connections have been made correctly.
■If the modem shares the telephone line with another device, make sure
the telephone line is not in use (for example, someone is on the
telephone, or another modem is in use).
■Use the modem cable that came with your computer. Some telephone
cables do not meet required cable standards and may cause problems with
the modem connection.
■Shut down and restart your computer.
■Run Windows modem diagnostics.
To run modem diagnostics:
1Close all open programs.
2Click Start, then select Control Panel. If you do not see the Phone and
Modem Options icon, click Switch to Classic View.
3Click/double-click the Phone and Modem Options icon, then click the
Modems tab.
4Click to select your modem, then click Properties. The Modem
Properties window opens.
5Click the Diagnostic tab, then Query Modem. If information about the
modem appears, the modem passed diagnostics. If no modem
information is available, a white screen appears with no data, or if
you get an error such as “port already open” or “the modem has
failed to respond,” the modem did not pass diagnostics.
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The modem is noisy when it dials and connects
When your modem tries to connect to another modem, it begins handshaking.
Handshaking is a digital “getting acquainted” conversation between the two
modems that establishes connection speeds and communication protocols.
You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems first connect.
If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can turn down the modem
volume.
To turn down the modem volume:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. If you do not see the Phone and
Modem Options icon, click Switch to Classic View.
2Click/double-click the Phone and Modem Options icon, then click the
Modems tab.
3Select the modem you want to adjust, then click Properties.
4Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker volume control.
5Exit Phone and Modem Options by clicking OK twice.
Mouse
The external mouse does not work
■Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly.
■Try a mouse you know is working to make sure the mouse port works.
■Shut down and restart your computer.
The external mouse works erratically
■Clean the mouse. For more information, see “Cleaning the mouse” on
page 187.
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Networks
You cannot connect to your company network
■Every network is unique. Contact your company computer department
or network administrator for help.
■If your system came equipped with an internal wireless device, do not
operate the wireless device unless the system is fully assembled.
Passwords
The computer does not accept your password
■Make sure that CAPS LOCK and PAD LOCK are turned off, then retype the
password.
You forgot your startup password
■The password feature (which is set in the BIOS Setup utility) is very secure,
with no easy way to recover a forgotten password. You must return your
computer for repair. Call Gateway Technical Support for instructions.
PC Cards
You installed a PC Card and now your computer is having problems
■Make sure you have correctly installed required software for the PC Card.
For more information, see your PC Card’s documentation.
■Make sure that the PC Card you installed is not causing a system resource
conflict. For more information on resource conflicts, see “Device
installation” on page 203.
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Power
Your computer is not working on AC power
■Make sure your AC power adapter is connected correctly to your
computer. For more information, see “Connecting the AC adapter” on
page 12.
■If your system is plugged into a surge protector, make sure the surge
protector is securely connected to an electrical outlet, switched on, and
working correctly. To test the outlet, plug a working device, such as a
lamp, into the outlet and turn it on.
■Make sure the AC power adapter cables are free from cuts or damage.
Replace any damaged cables.
Your computer is not working on battery power
■Make sure the battery is installed correctly. For more information, see
“Changing batteries” on page 96.
■Make sure the battery is fully recharged. For more information, see
“Recharging the battery” on page 94.
■Make sure the battery is calibrated correctly. For more information, see
“Recalibrating the battery” on page 95.
Printer
The printer will not turn on
■Make sure the power cable is plugged into an AC power source.
The printer is on but will not print
■Check the cable between the printer and the computer. Make sure it is
connected to the proper port.
■Most printers have an online/offline button that you may need to press
so the printer can start printing. Press the button to put the printer
online.
■Check the connector and cable for bent or broken pins.
■Reinstall the printer driver. Use the manual that came with your printer
for instructions on installing the printer driver.
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■If the printer you want to print to is not the default printer, make sure
you have selected it in the printer setup.
To set a default printer:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. If you do not see the Printers
and Faxes icon, click Switch to Classic View.
2Click/double-click the Printers and Faxes icon. The Printers and Faxes
window opens.
3Right-click the name of the printer you want to be the default
printer, then select Set as Default Printer.
You receive a “Printer queue is full” error message
■Make sure the printer is not set to work offline.
To make sure the printer is not set to work offline:
1Click Start, then select Control Panel. If you do not see the Printers
and Faxes icon, click Switch to Classic View.
2Click/double-click the Printers and Faxes icon. The Printers and Faxes
window opens.
3Double-click the icon for the printer you want to use.
4Select Printer. If there is a Use Printer Offline option on the menu, click
it to clear the check mark.
- OR -
Select Printer. If there is a Connect option on the menu, click it to
connect to the printer.
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■Wait until files have been printed before sending additional files to the
printer.
■If you print large files or many files at one time, you may want to add
additional memory to the printer. Consult the printer documentation for
instructions for adding additional memory.
You receive a “Printer is out of paper” error message
■After adding paper, make sure the printer is online. Most printers have
an online/offline button that you need to press after adding paper.
Sound
You are not getting sound from the speakers
■Make sure the Windows volume control is turned up. For more
information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 70 and “Listening to
CDs” on page 73.
■Make sure that Mute is not selected. For more information, see “Adjusting
the volume” on page 70 and “Listening to CDs” on page 73.
Video
The external monitor is not working
■Make sure that the monitor power is turned on and that the video cable
is correctly connected.
The LCD panel has pixels that are always dark or too bright
■This condition is normal and inherent in the TFT technology used in
active-matrix LCD screens. Gateway’s inspection standards keep these to
a minimum. If you feel these pixels are unacceptably numerous or dense
on your display, contact Gateway Technical Support to identify whether
a repair or replacement is justified based on the number of pixels affected.
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Telephone support
Before calling Gateway Technical Support
If you have a technical problem with your computer, follow these
recommendations before contacting Gateway Technical Support:
■Make sure that your computer is connected correctly to a grounded
AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use a power strip, make sure
that it is switched on.
■If a peripheral device, such as a keyboard or mouse does not appear to
work, make sure that all cables are plugged in securely.
■If you have recently installed hardware or software, make sure that you
have installed it according to the instructions provided with it. If you
did not purchase the hardware or software from Gateway, refer to the
manufacturer documentation and technical support resources.
■If you have “how to” questions about using a program, consult:
■Online Help
■Printed documentation
■The Microsoft Windows documentation
■The software publisher’s Web site
■Consult the troubleshooting section of this chapter.
■Have your customer ID, serial number, and order number available, along
with a detailed description of your issue, including the exact text of any
error messages, and the steps you have taken.
■Make sure that the computer is nearby at the time of your call. The
technician may have you follow appropriate troubleshooting steps while
on the line.
Warning To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your
computer problem if:
■Power cords or plugs are damaged
■Liquid has been spilled into your computer
■Your computer was dropped
■The cabinet was damaged
Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified
computer technician.
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Telephone numbers
You can access the following services through your telephone to get answers
to your questions:
Resource Service description How to reach
Automated
troubleshooting
system (ATS)
Use an automated menu system and your
telephone keypad to find answers to common
problems.
800-846-2118 (US)
877-709-2945 (Canada)
Fax on demand
support Order a catalog of documents on common
problems, then order documents by document
numbers. The documents will be faxed to you.
800-846-4526 (US)
877-709-2951 (Canada)
Gateway’s
fee-based
software
tutorial service
Get tutorial assistance for software issues billed
by the minute. 800-229-1103 (charged to
your credit card)
900-555-4695 (charged to
your telephone bill)
Gateway
Technical
Support
Talk to a Gateway Technical Support
representative about a non-tutorial technical
support question. (Refer to “Before calling
Gateway Technical Support” on page 217
before calling.)
TDD Technical Support (for hearing impaired) is
available:
Weekdays 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Central Time
Weekends 6:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Central Time
800-846-2301 (US)
800-846-3609 (Canada
and Puerto Rico)
605-232-2191 (all other
countries)
800-846-1778 (TDD)
America Online Get support for your America Online ISP
account 800-827-6364 (US)
888-265-4357 (Canada)
CompuServe Get support for your CompuServe ISP account 800-848-8990 (US)
Sales,
accounting,
and warranty
Get information about available systems, pricing
orders, billing statements, warranty service, or
other non-technical issues.
800-846-2000 (US)
888-888-2037 (Canada)
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Tutoring and training
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Tutoring and training
Gateway's Technical Support professionals cannot provide hardware and
software training or tutorial services. Instead, Gateway recommends the
following tutoring and training resources.
Self-help
If you have how-to questions about using your Gateway-supplied hardware or
software, consult the following resources:
■The printed or online manual that came with your hardware or software.
In many cases, additional product information and online manuals for
Gateway-supplied hardware can be found in our Web site's
Documentation Library
■This user's guide
■The software publisher's Web site
Tutoring
For help on using hardware or software that came with your Gateway
computer, contact Gateway's fee-based tutorial hotline:
■800-229-1103 (rate charged per minute; charged to a major credit card)
■900-555-4695 (rate charged per minute; charged to your telephone bill)
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Training
Gateway provides the following in-person and computerized training:
Resource Service description For more information
In-Store Training
at Gateway
Country stores
Our friendly and knowledgeable software
trainers can teach you how to use the Internet
and the most popular software programs,
including Microsoft Word, Excel, and
PowerPoint.
www.gateway.com/country
Gateway CD
Learning
Libraries
A variety of courses and tutorials are available
on CD. Select from several easy-to-use learning
libraries.
www.gateway.com/training
Online Training
from
Learn@Gateway
More than 450 online courses are available from
Learn@Gateway. All you have to do is go online
and log in. You select the subject matter, and the
learning format (self-paced tutorials or virtual
classrooms), all from the comfort of your
computer.
www.learnatgateway.com/
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A
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Safety,
Regulatory, and
Legal Information
Important safety information
Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information
technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that the
safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.
Setting up your system
■Read and follow all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation before you
operate your system. Retain all safety and operating instructions for future use.
■Do not use this product near water or a heat source such as a radiator.
■Set up the system on a stable work surface.
■The product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the rating
label.
■If your computer has a voltage selector switch, make sure that the switch is in the proper
position for your area. The voltage selector switch is set at the factory to the correct voltage.
■Openings in the computer case are provided for ventilation. Do not block or cover these
openings. Make sure you provide adequate space, at least 6 inches (15 cm), around the system
for ventilation when you set up your work area. Never insert objects of any kind into the
computer ventilation openings.
Warning Always follow these instructions to help guard against
personal injury and damage to your Gateway system.
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■Some products are equipped with a three-wire power cord to make sure that the product is
properly grounded when in use. The plug on this cord will fit only into a grounding-type
outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into an outlet, contact an
electrician to install the appropriate outlet.
■If you use an extension cord with this system, make sure that the total ampere rating on the
products plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the extension cord ampere rating.
■If your system is fitted with a TV Tuner, cable, or satellite receiver card, make sure that the
antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection against voltage
surges and buildup of static charges.
Care during use
■Do not walk on the power cord or allow anything to rest on it.
■Do not spill anything on the system. The best way to avoid spills is to avoid eating and
drinking near your system.
■Some products have a replaceable CMOS battery on the system board. There is a danger of
explosion if the CMOS battery is replaced incorrectly. Replace the battery with the same or
equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
■When the computer is turned off, a small amount of electrical current still flows through the
computer. To avoid electrical shock, always unplug all power cables and modem cables from
the wall outlets before cleaning the system.
■Unplug the system from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified personnel if:
■The power cord or plug is damaged.
■Liquid has been spilled into the system.
■The system does not operate properly when the operating instructions are followed.
■The system was dropped or the cabinet is damaged.
■The system performance changes.
Replacement parts and accessories
Use only replacement parts and accessories recommended by Gateway.
Important Do not use Gateway products in areas classified as
hazardous locations. Such areas include patient care
areas of medical and dental facilities, oxygen-laden
environments, or industrial facilities.
Caution To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger
telecommunications line cord.
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Regulatory compliance statements
Wireless Guidance
Low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices),
operating in the 2.4 GHz Band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. The
following section is a general overview of considerations while operating a wireless device.
Additional limitations, cautions, and concerns for specific countries are listed in the specific
country sections (or country group sections). The wireless devices in your system are only
qualified for use in the countries identified by the Radio Approval Marks on the system rating
label. If the country you will be using the wireless device in, is not listed, please contact your
local Radio Approval agency for requirements. Wireless devices are closely regulated and use may
not be allowed.
The power output of the wireless device or devices that may be embedded in your notebook is
well below the RF exposure limits as known at this time. Because the wireless devices (which may
be embedded into your notebook) emit less energy than is allowed in radio frequency safety
standards and recommendations, Gateway believes these devices are safe for use. Regardless of
the power levels, care should be taken to minimize human contact during normal operation.
As a general guideline, a separation of 20 cm (8 inches) between the wireless device and the
body, for use of a wireless device near the body (this does not include extremities) is typical. This
device should be used more than 20 cm (8 inches) from the body when wireless devices are on
and transmitting.
Some circumstances require restrictions on wireless devices. Examples of common restrictions
are listed below:
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. 802.11B (also known as wireless
Ethernet or Wifi) and Bluetooth communication devices are
examples of devices that provide wireless communication.
Warning In environments where the risk of interference to other
devices or services is harmful or perceived as harmful, the
option to use a wireless device may be restricted or
eliminated. Airports, Hospitals, and Oxygen or flammable
gas laden atmospheres are limited examples where use
of wireless devices may be restricted or eliminated. When
in environments where you are uncertain of the sanction
to use wireless devices, ask the applicable authority for
authorization prior to use or turning on the wireless device.
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Warning Every country has different restrictions on the use of
wireless devices. Since your system is equipped with a
wireless device, when traveling between countries with
your system, check with the local Radio Approval
authorities prior to any move or trip for any restrictions on
the use of a wireless device in the destination country.
Warning If your system came equipped with an internal embedded
wireless device, do not operate the wireless device unless
all covers and shields are in place and the system is fully
assembled.
Warning Wireless devices are not user serviceable. Do not modify
them in any way. Modification to a wireless device will void
the authorization to use it. Please contact Gateway for
service.
Warning Only use drivers approved for the country in which the
device will be used. See the Gateway System Restoration
Kit, or contact Gateway Technical Support for additional
information.
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United States of America
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Intentional emitter per FCC Part 15
Low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices),
operating in the 2.4 GHz Band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. This
section is only applicable if these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the
presence of wireless devices.
Wireless devices that may be in your system are only qualified for use in the United States of
America if an FCC ID number is on the system label.
The FCC has set a general guideline of 20 cm (8 inches) separation between the device and the
body, for use of a wireless device near the body (this does not include extremities). This device
should be used more than 20 cm (8 inches) from the body when wireless devices are on. The
power output of the wireless device (or devices), which may be embedded in your notebook, is
well below the RF exposure limits as set by the FCC.
Operation of this device 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 of the device.
Unintentional emitter per FCC Part 15
This device 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 or television reception. However, there is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause interference to radio and 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.
Compliance Accessories: The accessories associated with this equipment are: shielded video
cable when an external monitor is connected. These accessories are required to be used in order
to ensure compliance with FCC rules.
Warning Wireless devices are not user serviceable. Do not modify
them in any way. Modification to a wireless device will void
the authorization to use it. Contact Gateway for service.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
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FCC declaration of conformity
Responsible party:
Gateway Companies, Inc.
610 Gateway Drive, North Sioux City, SD 57049
(605) 232-2000 Fax: (605) 232-2023
Product:
■Solo 1400
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this product 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 Changes or modifications not expressly approved by
Gateway could void the FCC compliance and negate your
authority to operate the product.
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Telecommunications per FCC part 68
(applicable to products fitted with USA modems)
Your modem complies with Part 68 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules. On
the computer or modem card is a label that contains the FCC registration number and Ringer
Equivalence Number (REN) for this device. If requested, this information must be provided to the
telephone company.
An FCC-compliant telephone line cord with a modular plug is required for use with this device.
The modem is designed to be connected to the telephone network or premises wiring using a
compatible modular jack which is Part 68-compliant. See installation instructions for details.
The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) is used to determine the number of devices which may be
connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on a telephone line may result in the devices
not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most areas, the sum of RENs should not exceed
five (5.0). To be certain of the number of devices that may be connected to a line, as determined
by the total RENs, contact the local telephone company.
If this device causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in
advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. The telephone company may
request that you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved.
The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations, or procedures
that could affect the operation of this equipment. If this happens, the telephone company will
provide advance notice in order for you to make necessary modifications to maintain
uninterrupted service.
This equipment cannot be used on telephone company-provided coin service. Connection to
party line service is subject to state tariffs. Contact the state public utility commission or public
service commission for information.
When programming or making test calls to emergency numbers:
■Remain on the line and briefly explain to the dispatcher the reason for the call.
■Perform such activities in the off-peak hours such as early morning or late evenings.
The United States Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person
to use a computer or other electronic device to send any message via a telephone fax machine
unless such message clearly contains, in a margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted page
or on the first page of the transmission, the date and time it is sent, an identification of the
business, other entity, or other individual sending the message, and the telephone number of the
sending machine or such business, other entity, or individual. Refer to your fax communication
software documentation for details on how to comply with the fax-branding requirement.
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Canada
Industry Canada (IC)
Intentional emitter per RSS 210
Low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices),
operating in the 2.4 GHz Band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. This
section is only applicable if these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the
presence of wireless devices.
Wireless devices that may be in your system are only qualified for use in Canada if an Industry
Canada ID number is on the system label.
As a general guideline, a separation of 20 cm (8 inches) between the wireless device and the
body, for use of a wireless device near the body (this does not include extremities) is typical. This
device should be used more than 20 cm (8 inches) from the body when wireless devices are on.
The power output of the wireless device (or devices), which may be embedded in your notebook,
is well below the RF exposure limits as set by Industry Canada.
Operation of this device 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 of the device.
Unintentional emitter per ICES-003
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital
apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of Industry Canada.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage
radioélectrique édicté par Industrie Canada.
Warning To prevent radio interference to licensed service, this
device is intended to be operated indoors and away from
windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its
transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to
licensing.
Warning Wireless devices are not user serviceable. Do not modify
them in any way. Modification to a wireless device will void
the authorization to use it. Contact Gateway for service.
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Telecommunications per DOC notice
(for products fitted with an IC-compliant modem)
The Industry Canada label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the
equipment meets certain telecommunications network protective, operation, and safety
requirements. The Department does not guarantee the equipment will operate to the users’
satisfaction.
Before installing this equipment, users should make sure that it is permissible to be connected to
the facilities of the local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed
using an acceptable method of connection. In some cases, the inside wiring associated with a
single-line individual service may be extended by means of a certified connector assembly. The
customer should be aware that compliance with the above conditions may not prevent
degradation of service in some situations.
Repairs to certified equipment should be made by an authorized Canadian maintenance facility
designated by the supplier. Any repairs or alterations made by the user to this equipment, or
equipment malfunctions, may give the telecommunications company cause to request the user
to disconnect the equipment.
Users should make sure, for their own protection, that the electrical ground connections of the
power utility, telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected
together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas.
The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) assigned to each terminal device provides an indication
of the maximum number of terminals allowed to be connected to a telephone interface. The
termination on an interface may consist of any combination of devices subject only to the
requirement that the sum of the Ringer Equivalence Numbers of all the devices does not
exceed 5.
Warning To avoid electrical shock or equipment malfunction do not
attempt to make electrical ground connections by yourself.
Contact the appropriate inspection authority or an
electrician, as appropriate.
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Mexico
Intentional emitter
Low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices),
operating in the 2.4 GHz Band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. This
section is only applicable if these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the
presence of wireless devices.
Wireless devices that may be in your system are only qualified for use in Mexico if a SCT ID is on
the system label.
As a general guideline, a separation of 20 cm (8 inches) between the wireless device and the
body, for use of a wireless device near the body (this does not include extremities) is typical. This
device should be used more than 20 cm (8 inches) from the body when wireless devices are on.
The power output of the wireless device (or devices), which may be embedded in your notebook,
is well below the RF exposure limits as set by SCT.
Unintentional emitter
At this time there are no mandatory requirements for Unintentional Emitters. However, this
device does comply with multiple requirements for other countries and regions as listed on the
system label and in the users manual.
European Union
The following information is only applicable to systems labeled with the CE mark .
European directives
This Information Technology Equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
following European directives:
■EMC Directive 89/336/EEC with amending directives 92/31/EEC & 93/68/EEC as per
- EN 55022 Class B
- EN 61000-3-2
- EN 61000-3-3
- EN 55024
■Low Voltage Directive (Safety) 73/23/EEC as per EN 60950(A1/A2/A3/A4/A11)
■Radio and Telecom Terminal Equipment Directive 199/5/EC as per
- CTR21 (if fitted with a modem device)
- ETS 300 328-2 (if fitted with a 2.4 GHz band embedded wireless device)
- ETS 301 489-1 (if fitted with a 2.4 GHz band embedded wireless device)
- ETS 301 489-17 (if fitted with a 2.4 GHz band embedded wireless device)
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European radio approval information
(for products fitted with EU-approved radio devices)
This Product is a Notebook computer; low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio frequency (RF)
wireless communication devices), operating in the 2.4 GHz band, may be present (embedded) in
your notebook system which is intended for home or office use. This section is only applicable if
these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the presence of wireless devices.
Wireless devices that may be in your system are only qualified for use in the European Union or
associated areas if a CE mark with a Notified Body Registration Number and the Alert
Symbol is on the system label.
The power output of the wireless device or devices that may be embedded in you notebook is
well below the RF exposure limits as set by the European Commission through the R&TTE
directive.
European States qualified under wireless approvals:
European States with restrictions on use:
EU Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France (with frequency restrictions),
Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal,
Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
Accept EU Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland
EU In France, the frequency range is restricted to 2446-2483.5 MHz for devices
above 10 mW transmitting power such as wireless LAN.
Accept EU No limitations at this time.
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European telecommunication information
(for products fitted with EU-approved modems)
Marking by the symbol indicates compliance of this equipment to the Radio and Telecom
Terminal Equipment Directive 1999/5/EC. Such marking is indicative that this equipment meets
or exceeds the following technical standards:
CTR 21 – Attachment requirements for pan-European approval for connection to the analogue
Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTNs) of TE (excluding TE supporting voice telephony
services) in which network addressing, if provided, is by means of Dual Tone Multi-Frequency
(DTMF) signaling.
This equipment has been approved to Council Decision 98/482/EEC—“CTR 21” for
Pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
However, due to differences between the individual PSTNs provided in different countries, the
approval does not, of itself, give an unconditional assurance of successful operation on every
PSTN termination point. In the event of problems, you should contact Gateway Technical
Support.
Warning Although this equipment can use either loop disconnect
(pulse) or DTMF (tone) signaling, only the performance of
the DTMF signaling is subject to regulatory requirements
for correct operation. It is therefore strongly recommended
that the equipment is set to use DTMF signaling for access
to public or private emergency services. DTMF signaling
also provides faster call setup.
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Japan
Wireless devices
Low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices),
operating in the 2.4 GHz Band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. This
section is only applicable if these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the
presence of wireless devices.
Wireless devices that may be in your system are only qualified for use in Japan if a TELEC ID is
on the system label.
Operational guidelines for 2.4 GHz band wireless equipment (if equipped)
This equipment uses the 2.4 GHz ISM frequency band. The ISM band is the industrial, scientific,
and medical device band. Devices that might also use this band are microwave ovens, other LAN
devices, amateur radio stations, licensed premises radio stations, and non-licensed specified
low-power radio stations.
Prior to setting up your device:
1Make sure that there are no other devices in your area using the same frequency band.
2Change the channel, location, or discontinue device use if you are interfering with any other
radio station.
3Contact Gateway if you have any problems with this device.
2.4DS4
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VCCI statement
This equipment is in the Class B category (Information Technology Equipment to be used in a
residential area or an adjacent area thereto) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary
Control Council for Interference by Information Technology Equipment aimed at preventing
radio interference in such residential areas. When used near a radio or TV receiver, it may
become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling.
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Australia and New Zealand
Wireless devices
Low power, Radio LAN type devices (radio wave (RF) wireless communication devices), operating
in the 2.4 GHz Band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. This section is only
applicable if these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the presence of wireless
devices.
Wireless devices that may be in your system are only qualified for use Australia and New Zealand
if a C-tick mark and registration number is on the system label.
The power output of the wireless device or devices that may be embedded in your notebook is
well below the RF exposure limits as set by the Australia Communications Authority (ACA) and
Radio Spectrum management Group (RSMG).
EMI statement
This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to the Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS 3548 set out by the Australian
Communications Authority and the Radio Spectrum Management Agency.
New Zealand telecommunication statement
(for products fitted with Telepermit-approved modems)
The grant of a Telepermit for any item of terminal equipment indicates only that Telecom has
accepted that the item complies with minimum conditions for connection to its network. It
indicates no endorsement of the product by Telecom, nor does it provide any sort of warranty.
Above all, it provides no assurance that any item will work correctly in all respects with another
item of Telepermitted equipment of a different make or model, nor does it imply that any
product is compatible with all of Telecom's network services.
This equipment shall not be set up to make automatic calls to the Telecom ‘111’ Emergency
Service.
Some parameters required for compliance with Telecom’s Telepermit requirements are
dependent on the equipment (PC) associated with this device. The associated equipment shall be
set to operate within the following limits for compliance with Telecom’s specifications:
(a)There shall be no more than 10 calls to the same number within any 30-minute period for any
single manual call initiation, and
(b)The equipment shall go on-hook for a period of not less than 30 seconds between the end of
one attempt and the beginning of the next attempt.
The equipment shall be set to make sure that automatic calls to different numbers are spaced
such that there is no less than 5 seconds between the end of one call attempt and the beginning
of another.
The equipment shall be set to make sure that calls are answered between 3 and 30 seconds of
receipt of ringing.
Important Under power failure conditions, this telephone may not
operate. Make sure that a separate telephone, not
dependent on local power, is available for emergency use.
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Laser safety statement
All Gateway systems equipped with CD and DVD drives comply with the appropriate safety
standards, including IEC 825. The laser devices in these components are classified as “Class 1
Laser Products” under a US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation
Performance Standard. Should the unit ever need servicing, contact an authorized service
location.
Warning Use of controls or adjustments or performance of
procedures other than those specified in this manual may
result in hazardous radiation exposure. To prevent
exposure to laser beams, do not try to open the enclosure
of a CD or DVD drive.
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Notices
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Notices
Copyright © 2001 Gateway, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
4545 Town Centre Court
San Diego, CA 92121 USA
All Rights Reserved
This publication is protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of it may be reproduced or
transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior consent in writing from Gateway.
The information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate. However, changes are
made periodically. These changes are incorporated in newer publication editions. Gateway may improve and/or
change products described in this publication at any time. Due to continuing system improvements, Gateway is
not responsible for inaccurate information which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates,
consult the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special,
exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this manual, even if
advised of the possibility of such damages.
In the interest of continued product development, Gateway reserves the right to make improvements in this
manual and the products it describes at any time, without notices or obligation.
Trademark Acknowledgments
1-800-GATEWAY, ActiveCPR, ALR, AnyKey, black-and-white spot design, CrystalScan, Destination, DestiVu, EZ
Pad, EZ Point, Field Mouse, Gateway 2000, Gateway Country, gateway.net, Gateway stylized logo, Perfect
Scholar, Solo, TelePath, Vivitron, stylized “G” design, and “You ’ve got a friend in the business” slogan are
registered trademarks and black-and-white spotted box logo, GATEWAY, Gateway Astro, Gateway@Work,
Gateway Connected touch pad, Gateway Connected music player, Gateway Cyber:)Ware, Gateway
Education:)Ware, Gateway Flex Case, Gateway Gaming:)Ware, Gateway GoBack, Gateway Gold, Gateway
Learning:)Ware, Gateway Magazine, Gateway Micro Server, Gateway Money:)Ware, Gateway Music:)Ware,
Gateway Networking Solutions, Gateway Online Network (O.N.) solution, Gateway Photo:)Ware, Gateway
Professional PCs, Gateway Profile, Gateway Solo, green stylized GATEWAY, green stylized Gateway logo,
Gateway Teacher:)Ware, Gateway Video:)Ware, HelpSpot, InforManager, Just click it!, Learn@Gateway, Kids
BackPack, SERVE-TO-ORDER, Server Watchdog, SpotShop, Spotshop.com, and Your:)Ware are trademarks of
Gateway, Inc. Intel, Intel Inside logo, and Pentium are registered trademarks and MMX is a trademark of Intel
Corporation. Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. All other product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and may be the
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Macrovision statement
If your computer has a DVD drive and an analog TV Out port, the following paragraph applies:
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S.
patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of
this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home
and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse
engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
239
Index
A
AC adapter
connecting 12
connector 6
damaged 12
defective 13
international adapters 97
accessories 10
safety precautions 222
allocating system memory 119
America Online 60, 132
application key 21
arrow keys 21
AU file 76
audio
troubleshooting 216
audio CD
adding tracks to your library 82
cleaning 202
editing track information 81
inserting 69
playing 73
playing with MusicMatch 78
troubleshooting 201
audio file
streaming 133
automobile/airplane power adapter 97
AVI file 76
B
background 114
backing up files 184
battery
alarm options 99, 101
bay 5, 7
changing 96
charge indicator 2
charge status 94
conserving power 97
installing 96
managing power 97
monitoring charge 94
recalibrating 95
recharging 12, 94
release latch 7
bays
battery 5, 7, 96
hard drive 7
memory 7
break key 22
broadband Internet connection 29, 136
C
cable lock 6
Caps Lock indicator 19
CD 69
adding tracks to your library 82
cleaning 202
drive 5
editing track information 81
eject button 5
indicator 5
inserting 69
playing audio 73
playing audio with MusicMatch 78
troubleshooting 201
clicking 26
close button 42
color
changing depth 110
changing number of 110
changing scheme 113
connecting
modem 28
to Ethernet 29
to Internet 60
connections
Ethernet 4
headphone 4
microphone 4
240
modem 4
monitor (VGA) 6
network 4
parallel 6
power 6
speaker 4
USB 6
copying
files and folders 45, 56
text and graphics 56
copyright notice 237
Customer Service 217, 218
Accounting 218
Sales 218
Warranty 218
customizing 109
cutting
files and folders 45, 56
text and graphics 56
D
data transfer speed 139
default printer 215
deleting files and folders 46, 56, 180
desktop 38
adjusting settings 110
changing background 114
changing color depth 110
changing color scheme 113
changing number of colors 110
device drivers 189
dialing codes 106
Disk Cleanup 180
Disk Defragmenter 183
diskette
drive 4
eject button 4
inserting 68
diskette drive 68
status indicator 19
troubleshooting 203
documentation
Gateway Web site 36
help 32
HelpSpot 32
online help 35
documents
creating 52
opening 54
printing 55
saving 53
double-clicking 26
downloading 63
dragging 27
drivers 189
reinstalling 190
updating 191
drives 43
CD 69
diskette 68
hard drive 129
replacing hard drive 129
sharing 132
viewing contents 43
viewing files and folders 43
DVD
cleaning 202
drive 5
eject button 5
indicator 5
playing 77
troubleshooting 201
E
electrostatic discharge (ESD) 124
e-mail 58, 64
address 64
button 24
checking for messages 65
sending 64
emergency startup diskette 175
EmPower power adapter 97
Error-checking 181, 204
Ethernet 135, 137, 165
connecting 29
jack 4
241
external monitor 22
EZ Pad touchpad 25
F
fan 6, 7
Fast Ethernet 135, 137, 165
faxes
failed transmission 91
receiving and viewing 92
sending 90
sending from a program 92
setting up cover page 88
troubleshooting 210
files 43, 44
backing up 184
copying 45, 56
cutting 56
deleting 46, 56, 180
finding 48, 49
moving 45
opening 26
pasting 56
renaming 56
searching for 48, 49
transferring 107
troubleshooting 205
viewing list 43
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard 167
finding files and folders 48, 49
Fn key 21
folders 43, 44
copying 45, 56
creating 44
cutting 56
deleting 46, 56
finding 48, 49
moving 45
opening 26
pasting 56
renaming 56
searching for 48, 49
viewing list 43
fragmentation 182
Function key 21
function keys 21
G
game
multi-player 133
Gateway
Web address 36
Web site 36
Gateway Connected Home
shopping list 164
gateway.your.way dial-up server 210
graphics memory 119
H
hard drive 7
checking for errors on 181
checking for free space 179
defragmenting 182
indicator 19
replacing 129
scanning for errors on 181
troubleshooting 205
headphone jack 4
help
button 24
online 35
using 32
HelpSpot 32
Getting Started 33
playing videos 34
starting 32
Hibernate mode 103, 104
home office network 132
HPNA 135, 137, 164
hyperlinks 61
I
IEEE 802.11b 136, 138
using while traveling 106
installing
battery 96
hard drive 129
242
memory 125
PC Cards 122
Internet 58
button 24
connecting to 60
requirements to access 58
sharing access 132
Internet connection
broadband 29, 136
troubleshooting 206, 210
Internet radio 84
Internet service provider (ISP) 58
connecting to 60
disconnecting from 60
setting up an account 59
IRQ conflicts 203
J
jacks
Ethernet 4
headphone 4
microphone 4
modem 4
network 4
speaker 4
K
Kensington cable lock 107
lock slot 6
key combinations 22
keyboard 8
cleaning 187
shortcuts 56
troubleshooting 207
keys
application 21
arrow 21
Break 22
Fn 21
Function 21
LCD/CRT 22
Pad Lock 22
Pause 22
Scroll Lock 22
Standby 22
Status 22
System 21
volume 21
Windows 21
L
label
system identification 7
LCD panel
troubleshooting 208
LCD/CRT key 22
line protector 106
line tester 106
lockKensington 6, 107
M
maintenance
backing up files 184
checking drive for errors 181
cleaning component exteriors 186
cleaning the case 186
cleaning the keyboard 187
cleaning the mouse 187
cleaning the screen 187
defragmenting 183
deleting files 180
suggested schedule 174
using Scheduled Task Wizard 185
maximize button 42
Media Player 73, 76
memory
bay 7
graphics 119
installing 125
removing 127
replacing 125
troubleshooting 208
menu bar 42
messages
checking e-mail 65
243
sending e-mail 64
microphone
jack 4
MIDI file 76
minimize button 42
model number 107
modem 58
connecting 28
international adapter 106
jack 4
troubleshooting 208
monitor (VGA) port 6
mouse
cleaning 187
troubleshooting 212
moving
files 168
Internet settings 169
pointer 26
screen objects 27
MP3 file
creating 80
editing track information 81
playing 76
streaming 133
MPEG file 76
streaming 133
multi-function buttons 8
customizing 118
multimedia
playing audio CD 73
playing DVD 77
recording audio 74
using Windows Media Player 73, 76
multi-player game
playing 133
music library
building 82
changing settings 83
MusicMatch
building a music library 82
creating music files 80
editing track information 81
listening to Internet radio 84
playing audio CD 78
N
navigation keys 21
network
jack 4
troubleshooting 213
network equipment shopping list 164
Network Setup Wizard 142
Norton Antivirus 177
numeric keypad 21
O
online help 32, 35
opening
documents 54
files 26
folders 26
programs 26, 40
P
Pad Lock
indicator 19
system key 22
parallel port 6, 30
password 107, 213
pasting
files and folders 45, 56
text and graphics 56
pause text scrolling 22
PC Card
adding 122
eject buttons 4
installing 122
slots 4
troubleshooting 213
PC Doctor 200
peripheral devices 30
playing
audio CD 73
audio CD with MusicMatch 78
audio file 75
244
DVD 77
multimedia files 76
Windows Media Player file 76
Plug and Play devices
USB support for 30
pointer 25
moving 26
ports
monitor (VGA) 6
parallel 6, 30
USB 6, 30
power
AC power adapter 97
advanced settings 99, 102
alarms 99, 101
automobile/airplane adapter 97
battery 97
button 8, 16, 22
changing modes 98
changing settings 99
connector 6
damaged cord 12, 13
EmPower adapter 97
Hibernate mode 98, 103, 104
management 97, 108
schemes 99, 100
Standby/Resume 15
status pop-up menu 22
troubleshooting 214
power indicator 3
printer
default 215
installing 30
parallel port 6
sharing 133
troubleshooting 214
printing documents 55
programs
closing 56
opening 26, 40
reinstalling 194
R
radio
listening with MusicMatch 84
Radio Approval authorities 106
radio frequency wireless connections
106
RAM 125, 127
recalibrating the battery 95
recharging the battery 94
recording
audio file 74
CD tracks 80
Recycle Bin 39
deleting files and folders 46
emptying 47
recovering files and folders 46
reinstalling
battery 96
hard drive 129
memory 125
peripheral devices 170
printer 170
programs 171, 194
software 194
Windows 193
removing files and folders 46, 56, 180
renaming files and folders 56
replacing
battery 96
hard drive 129
memory 125
resolution
changing 111
right-clicking 26
S
safety
general precautions 221
guidelines for troubleshooting 198
saving documents 53
scanner
installing 30
sharing 133
245
Scheduled Tasks Wizard 185
screen
adjusting settings 110
changing color depth 110
changing number of colors 110
changing resolution 111
saver 115
troubleshooting 208, 216
screen objects
getting information 26
moving 27
selecting 26
Scroll Lock
status indicator 19, 22
system key 22
Search utility 50
searching for files and folders 48, 49
security while traveling 107
serial number 107
setting up
safety precautions 221
shortcut menus
accessing 26
shortcuts
closing programs 56
closing windows 56
copying 56
cutting 56
deleting files and folders 56
keyboard 56
pasting 56
renaming files and folders 56
selecting items in a list 56
small office network 132
SO-DIMM 125
software
closing 56
opening 26, 40
reinstalling 194
sound
adjusting 70
controls 70
mute 70
troubleshooting 216
Sound Recorder
making audio recordings 74
playing file 75
speakers
built-in 2
jack 4
standby mode 22, 98
Start button 39
Start menu 40
starting
notebook 15
programs 26, 40
startup diskette 175
static electricity 124
status indicator 8
battery charge 2
Caps Lock 19
CD 19
diskette drive 19
hard drive 19
Pad Lock 19, 22
power 3
Scroll Lock 19, 22
support tool
PC Doctor 200
surge protector 14
Suspend 22
system identification label 7
system key combinations 22
system keys 21
system memory
allocating 119
T
taskbar 39
technical support
automated troubleshooting 218
FaxBack support 218
resources 217
Technical Support 218
tips before contacting 217
tutorial service 218
246
telephone
line protector 106
line tester 106
receiving and viewing faxes 92
sending a fax 90
sending faxes from a program 92
setting up fax cover page 88
telephone support 217
title bar 42
touchpad 8, 25
buttons 26
changing settings 117
clicking 26
double-clicking 26
moving pointer 26
moving screen objects 27
opening files, folders, and programs
26
right-clicking 26
selecting screen objects 26
training
CD 220
classroom 220
Learn@Gateway 220
Learning Libraries 220
transferring
files 168
Internet settings 169
travel tips 105
troubleshooting
audio 216
CD/DVD drive 201
device installation 203
diskette drive 203
Error-checking 204
faxes 210
files 205
hard drive 205
Internet connection 206, 210
IRQ conflict 203
keyboard 207
LCD panel 208
memory 208
modem 208
mouse 212
network 213
passwords 213
PC Cards 213
power 214
printer 214
screen 216
screen area 208
screen resolution 208
sound 216
video 216
Web site connection speed 207
turning off notebook 16
turning on notebook 15
tutoring
fee-based 219
U
USBHPNA adapter 164
port 6, 30
user accounts
adding 17
switching 17
user-defined shortcut button 24
V
video
troubleshooting 216
video file
streaming 133
virus 177
protecting against 63, 177
removing with Norton AntiVirus
177
volume
adjusting 70
adjusting modem 212
controls 70
mute 70
247
W
waking up your notebook 15
WAV file 76
Web browser 58, 61
Web page 61
Web site 61
connecting to 62
Gateway 36
window 41
close button 42
closing 56
maximize button 42
menu bar 42
minimize button 42
title bar 42
Windows
desktop 38
reinstalling 193
reinstalling device drivers 190
updating device drivers 191
Windows key 21
Windows Media Player 73
wireless connections
using while traveling 106
wireless Ethernet 136, 138
checking signal strength 162
configuring Windows XP 146
connecting to 161
creating network 150
setting up in Windows XP 141
turning off 149
turning on 149
World Wide Web (WWW) 61
downloading files 63
write-protection for diskettes 176
248