Acer TravelMate 330 Series User Manual

Acer notebook computer user's guide
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TravelMate 330 Series

Notebook Computer

User's Guide

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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Acer TravelMate 330 Series

  • Page 1: Notebook Computer

    TravelMate 330 Series Notebook Computer User’s Guide...
  • Page 2 Purchase Date: __________________________________ Place of Purchase: ________________________________ Acer, the Acer logo and TravelMate are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Other trademarks, registered trademarks...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Notices ..........vii Preface .
  • Page 4 Securing your Computer ........30 Security Notch .
  • Page 5 Battery Pack ........58 AC Adapter .
  • Page 6 Notebook Manager ......... . 81 Information Viewer .
  • Page 7: Notices

    Notices FCC Notice 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.
  • Page 8: Modem Notices

    viii Notices Use Conditions This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Notice: Canadian Users This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
  • Page 9: Important Safety Instructions

    CTR 21 This equipment has been approved [Council Decision 98/482/EC - “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.
  • Page 10: Year 2000 Compliance Statement

    The TravelMate 330 series notebook computer is Year 2000-compliant and carries the “NSTL Hardware Tested Year 2000 Compliant” logo. This model has been tested both by Acer’s internal test labs and NSTL using When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed...
  • Page 11: Laser Compliance Statement

    NSTL’s YMARK2000 certification test. These tests certify that this model will successfully make the year 2000 transition. For more details, check the Acer Year 2000 Resource Center at http://www.acer.com.tw/service/y2k/ Laser Compliance Statement The CD-ROM drive in this computer is a laser product. The CD- ROM drive’s classification label (shown below) is located on the...
  • Page 12: Lithium Battery Statement

    Notices Lithium Battery Statement CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. ADVARSEL! Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering. Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat og type.
  • Page 13: Preface

    Preface This manual describes features of the TravelMate 330 series notebook computers. This series of ultra-slim computers incorporate such features as CardBus, 16-bit PCI stereo 3D audio, Fast Infrared, internal 56K modem, internal pointing device with scroll function, Universal Serial Bus, and Accelerated Graphics Port.
  • Page 14: Connecting The Computer

    Preface Connecting the Computer Connecting the computer is as easy as 1-2-3. Note: When using a battery pack for the first time, fully recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use up the battery before recharging again. You only need to do this once with a new battery Gently insert the battery into the battery bay by following the guide symbols on both the battery and the bottom of the computer;...
  • Page 15 then release it to turn on the power. The POST (Power On Self-Test) routine executes and Windows begins loading. Note: To turn off the power, press the power switch for more than four seconds. If you are using Windows, we recommend that you use the Shut Down command to turn off the computer.
  • Page 16: Getting Help Online

    If you are connected to the Internet and have World Wide Web access, visit our home page at: and get the latest information about our products. Press the Windows logo button or click on the Start button. Select Programs. Click on TravelMate Online. http://www.acer.com/...
  • Page 17: Support Information

    ITW passport. If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer- authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide.
  • Page 18: Care And Maintenance

    xviii Preface Care and Maintenance Taking Care of Your Computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. These care and maintenance tips also apply to the EasyLink™ Combo Drive. Taking Care of your AC Adapter Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter: Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight.
  • Page 19: Taking Care Of Your Battery Pack

    using an extension cord. Also, the total current rating of all equipment plugged into a single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating. Taking Care of your Battery Pack Here are some ways to take care of your battery pack: Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements (Model# CGP-E/618AE).
  • Page 20 Preface...
  • Page 21: Chapter 1 Getting Familiar With Your Computer

    Getting Familiar with your Computer Chapter 1...
  • Page 22 This computer combines high-performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner. This chapter gives an in-depth "tour" of the computer’s many features.
  • Page 23: Features

    Features This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features: Performance Intel Pentium® II processor 64-bit main memory and L2 cache memory Large and vibrant Thin-Film-Transistor (TFT) SVGA Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) 64-bit PCI/AGP graphics acceleration with 2.5MB graphics memory High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE removable hard disk...
  • Page 24 Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Universal Serial Bus (USB) port Human-centric Design and Ergonomics Ultra-slim, sleek, smooth and stylish design Full-sized keyboard Wide and curved palm rest Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device with scroll function Expansion CardBus PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) slot (one type II/I) with Zoomed Video (ZV) support Upgradeable memory and hard disk...
  • Page 25: Display

    Display The large graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality and desktop performance graphics. The computer supports a Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) displaying 32-bit true-color at 800x600 Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) resolution. Video Performance PCI local bus video with 64-bit graphics acceleration and 2.5MB high-speed Synchonous Graphics Random Access Memory (SGRAM) boost video performance.
  • Page 26 Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer device. For more information, see “Setting Up Dual Display” on page 49. Opening and Closing the Display To open the display, slide the display cover latch to the left and lift up the cover. Then tilt it to a comfortable viewing position. The computer employs a microswitch that turns off the display (and enters Standby mode) to conserve power when you close the display cover, and turns it back on when you open the...
  • Page 27: Indicators

    Indicators The computer has six easy-to-read status icons on the right of the display screen. The Power and Standby status icons are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed. # # # # Icon n n n Fu Fu Fu Fun n n n c c c c t t t t ion...
  • Page 28: Keyboard

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys and twelve function keys. Special Keys Lock Keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.
  • Page 29: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded Numeric Keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys. Des s s s i i i i red red Ac Acce ce ce cess ss ss ss...
  • Page 30: Windows Keys

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Windows Keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Key y y y Ke Ke Windows logo key Application key Hot Keys The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS Utility.
  • Page 31 To activate hot keys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hot key combination. Ho Ho Hot t t t K K K K e e e e y y y y Icon Icon Icon Icon Func c c c t t t t ion...
  • Page 32 Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Hot t t t Ke Key y y y Ho Ho Ke Ke Fn-F5 Fn-F6 Fn-F7 Fn-F8 Fn-left arrow Fn-right arrow Fn-up arrow Fn-down arrow Alt Gr Euro The Euro Symbol If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International or United Kingdom, you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard.
  • Page 33 Important! (for US keyboard users): The keyboard layout is set when you first set up Windows. For the Euro symbol to work, the keyboard layout has to be set to United States-International. To verify the keyboard type: Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel. Double-click on Keyboard.
  • Page 34: Keyboard Ergonomics

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Keyboard Ergonomics Located below the keyboard, the wide and curved palm rest is ergonomically designed to provide you with a very comfortable place to rest your hands while you type.
  • Page 35: Touchpad

    Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a PS/2-compatible pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means the cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of the touchpad. The central location on the palm rest provides optimum comfort and support.
  • Page 36 Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Funct t t t ion Func Func Func Execute Select Drag Access context menu Scroll Note: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response.
  • Page 37: Customizing The Center Button

    Customizing the Center Button You can customize the function of the center button as follows: Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel. Double-click on Mouse. Click on the Button Actions tab. Customize the settings for Rocker Switch. Click on OK.
  • Page 38: Storage

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Storage This computer supplies you with all-in-one media storage: Hard Disk The removable hard disk module can be upgraded when you need more storage space. See “Hard Disk Upgrade” on page 61. EasyLink™ Combo Drive The EasyLink™...
  • Page 39: Ejecting Media

    Firmly connect the EasyLink™ Combo Drive (connector to connector) to the computer. To disconnect the EasyLink™ Combo Drive: Click on the HotIDE icon on the Windows taskbar. Select the stop operation. Click on OK. Disconnect the EasyLink™ Combo Drive. Tuck in the EasyLink™ Combo Drive cable connector into its storage slot.
  • Page 40: Playing Dvd Movies

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Ejecting the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM Tray To eject the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM tray when the computer is turned on, press the CD-ROM eject button. When the power is off, you can eject the CD-ROM drive tray using the emergency eject hole.
  • Page 41: Ports

    Ports Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, see “Peripherals and Options” on page 47. Left Port # # # # Port rt rt rt Po Po EasyLink™...
  • Page 42: Rear Ports

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Rear Ports # # # # Icon Icon Icon Icon Po Po Port rt rt rt Modem jack Power jack PS/2 port Infrared port USB jack Parallel port Serial port Connect t t t s s s s to to to to.... Connec Connec Connec...
  • Page 43: Fax/Data Modem

    # # # # Icon n n n Fax/Data Modem Some models have a built-in V.90 56Kbps PCI fax/data modem. Warning! This modem port is not compatible with digital phone lines. Plugging this modem into a digital phone line will damage the modem. To use the fax/data modem port, connect a phone cable from the modem port to a telephone jack.
  • Page 44: Universal Serial Bus

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer of up to four megabits per second (Mbps) at a distance of up to one meter. To use FIR, position two IR-aware devices such that their IR ports are no more than one meter apart and offset no more than 15 degrees.
  • Page 45: Right Ports

    Right Ports # # # # Icon n n n PC Card Slot There is a type II/I CardBus PC Card slot found on the right panel of the computer. This slot accepts a credit-card-sized card that enhances the usability and expandability of the computer. Port rt rt rt Connec Connect t t t s s s s to to to to...
  • Page 46 Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer PC Cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs. Popular type II cards include flash memory, SRAM, fax/data modem, LAN and SCSI cards. CardBus improves on the 16-bit PC card technology by expanding the bandwidth to 32 bits.
  • Page 47 Press the slot eject button (1) to pop out the eject button (2); then press it again to eject the card (3).
  • Page 48: Audio

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Audio The computer comes with 16-bit high-fidelity PCI stereo audio with further enhancements that include 3D sound for true audio immersion. There are audio ports on the right panel of the computer. See “Audio Devices”...
  • Page 49 If the speaker icon is not displayed on the taskbar, enable this feature (show volume control on the taskbar) via the Multimedia icon in the Control Panel. Click on the Options menu and select Advanced Controls. Click on the Advanced button that now appears in the Master Volume Balance column.
  • Page 50: Securing Your Computer

    Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer Securing your Computer Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and passwords. Security Notch A security notch located on the rear panel of the computer lets you connect a Kensington-compatible key-based computer security lock.
  • Page 51: Setting A Password

    password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from hibernation for maximum security. Hard Disk Password protects your data by preventing unauthorized access to your hard disk. Even if the hard disk is removed from the computer and moved to another computer, it cannot be accessed without the Hard Disk Password.
  • Page 52 Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer...
  • Page 53: Chapter 2 Operating On Battery Power

    Operating on Battery Power Chapter 2...
  • Page 54 The computer operates on AC or battery power. This chapter contains the information you need to know to operate the computer on battery power. It also includes information on how your computer manages and saves power.
  • Page 55: Battery Pack

    Battery Pack The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between charges. Battery Pack Characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: Employs Current Battery Technology Standards The computer uses a Lithium-Ion battery pack which does not have the memory effect problem of Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries.
  • Page 56: Replacing The Battery Pack

    Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power You only need to do this once with a new battery or with a battery that's been stored without being used for a long time. If the computer is to be stored for more than two weeks, we suggest you remove the battery pack.
  • Page 57: Charging The Battery

    Lift up the battery pack to remove it from the battery bay. Insert a replacement battery pack into the battery bay by following the figures below. Charging the Battery To charge the battery, place the battery pack inside the battery bay and plug the AC adapter into the computer and an electrical outlet.
  • Page 58: Checking The Battery Level

    Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power Charge-in-use mode When the computer is in use with the AC adapter plugged in, the computer also charges the battery pack if installed. This mode will take longer to fully charge a battery than rapid mode. In charge-in-use mode, a fully depleted battery gets fully charged in approximately six to seven hours.
  • Page 59: Battery-Low Warning

    Use Sleep Manager to reserve hard disk space for the Hibernation function. Keep it running in the background to automatically adjust the Hibernation file size. See “Sleep Manager” on page 76. Use the AC adapter whenever possible so that the battery is reserved for on-the-go computing.
  • Page 60 Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power When you receive a battery-low warning, you have around two minutes to save your work. If you do not connect the AC adapter within this period, the computer enters Hibernation mode if the Sleep Upon Battery-low parameter in BIOS Utility is enabled and the following conditions exist: Otherwise, the computer enters Standby mode.
  • Page 61 S S S S i i i i tua tuat t t t ion Recomm Reco Reco Reco mmended ended ended A A A A c c c c tion ended An extra fully- 1. Save all necessary files. charged battery 2.
  • Page 62: Power Management

    Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power Power Management This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disk, peripherals connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video memory.
  • Page 63: Hard Disk Standby Mode

    "Automatic Dim" Feature The computer has a unique "automatic dim" power-saving feature. When the computer is using AC power and you disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, it automatically dims the LCD backlight to save power. If you reconnect AC power to the computer, it automatically adjusts the LCD backlight to a brighter level.
  • Page 64: Hibernation Mode

    Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power The following signals indicate that the computer is in Standby mode: Warning! Unstored data is lost when you turn off the computer power in Standby mode or when the battery is drained. To leave Standby mode and return to normal mode: Hibernation Mode In Hibernation mode, all power shuts off (the computer does not consume any power).
  • Page 65: Sleep Mode (Acpi)

    Battery-low parameter in the BIOS Utility is enabled When the advanced power button function(s) in the Notebook Manager program is/are set to Hibernation mode Invoked by the operating system power-saving modes Note: If the computer beeps but does not enter Hibernation mode after pressing the Hibernation hot key, it means the operating system will not allow the computer to enter the power-saving mode.
  • Page 66: Advanced Power Management

    Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power Advanced Power Management This computer supports the APM standard designed to further reduce power consumption. APM is a power-management approach defined jointly by Microsoft and Intel. An increasing number of software packages support APM to take advantage of its power-saving features and allow greater system availability without degrading performance.
  • Page 67: Chapter 3 Peripherals And Options

    Peripherals and Options Chapter 3...
  • Page 68 When connecting peripherals, read the manual included with the peripheral for operating instructions. You can purchase most of these and other options directly from Acer. This chapter also includes sections on how to upgrade key components. Key component upgradeability helps keep your...
  • Page 69: External Monitor

    External Monitor To show graphical effects on a larger display, connect an external monitor to the external display port. Read the monitor manual for additional instructions. Note: If an external monitor is not connected, closing the display cover puts the computer into standby mode. Setting Up Dual Display Dual display allows you to expand your desktop to an external display device, giving you more desktop space to work on.
  • Page 70 Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options Set the colors and screen area parameters for the second display device. Click on Advanced... and click on the Monitor tab. Click on Change... and follow the instructions on the screen. Click on OK.
  • Page 71: Printer

    Printer This computer supports both serial and parallel printers. For a serial printer, plug the printer cable into a serial port. For a parallel printer, plug the printer cable into the parallel port. See your printer manual for operating instructions. Note: If the printer does not function, enter the BIOS Utility and verify that the parallel port is enabled.
  • Page 72: External Pointing Device

    Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options External Pointing Device This computer accepts a PS/2-compatible, serial or USB mouse or similar pointing device. Note: When using an external mouse, you may choose to disable the internal touchpad by pressing Fn-F7. External PS/2 Mouse The built-in touchpad works alternately with an external PS/2 mouse which is hot-pluggable.
  • Page 73: External Usb Mouse

    External USB Mouse Plug the USB mouse into the USB port. See “USB Devices” on page 57 for more information.
  • Page 74: External Keyboard And Keypad

    Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options External Keyboard and Keypad This computer has a keyboard with full-sized keys and an embedded keypad. If you feel more comfortable using a desktop keyboard, you can install a PS/2-compatible external keyboard. To connect an external keyboard, plug the external keyboard into the PS/2 connector.
  • Page 75: Audio Devices

    Audio Devices Audio devices are easy to connect with the audio ports accessible from the right side of the computer. You can plug in an external microphone to the microphone-in jack, an audio line-in device to the line-in jack, and amplified speakers or headphones to the line-out jack.
  • Page 76: Pc Cards

    Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options PC Cards The computer has one CardBus PC card slot that accommodates one type I/II PC card. Please consult your dealer for PC card options available that you can purchase for your computer. Note: For more information on how to use a PC Card with the computer, see “PC Card Slot”...
  • Page 77: Usb Devices

    USB Devices The computer has a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port that allows you to connect peripherals without occupying too many resources. Common USB devices include the mouse and keyboard. Most USB devices also include a built-in USB port connector which allows you to daisy-chain other USB devices.
  • Page 78: Miscellaneous Options

    Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options Miscellaneous Options Additional Power Packs You can order spare batteries and an AC adapter. Battery Pack It is good practice to have a spare battery around, especially when you travel. The Lithium-Ion battery, coupled with power management features, supplies you with more power on-the-go.
  • Page 79: File Transfer Cable

    Connect the single connector end of the Y-bridge cable to the computer’s PS/2 port and the double connector ends to the two PS/2 devices. File Transfer Cable Besides using the infrared port, you can also transfer files between computers using a file transfer cable. Connect the file transfer cable between the parallel ports of the two computers and use your file transfer utility to perform the transfer.
  • Page 80: Key Component Upgrades

    Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options Key Component Upgrades Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.
  • Page 81: Hard Disk Upgrade

    Remove the screws from the memory door; then lift up and remove the memory door Insert the memory module diagonally into the slot, then gently press it down until it clicks into place. Replace the memory door and secure it with the screw. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size.
  • Page 82: Installing A Replacement Hard Disk

    Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options Installing a Replacement Hard Disk Follow these steps to install a hard disk: Turn off the computer, unplug the AC adapter (if connected) and remove the battery pack. Turn the computer over to access its base. Locate the hard disk bay.
  • Page 83: Chapter 4 Moving With Your Computer

    Moving with your Computer Chapter 4...
  • Page 84 This chapter gives you tips and hints on things to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer.
  • Page 85: Disconnecting From The Desktop

    Disconnecting from the Desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: Save your work in progress. Remove any media, diskette and compact disc, from the EasyLink™ Combo Drive. Shut down the operating system. Turn off the computer. Disconnect the EasyLink™...
  • Page 86: Moving Around

    Chapter 4 Moving with your Computer Moving Around when you are just moving within short distances, for example, from your office desk to a meeting room Preparing the Computer Before moving the computer, close and latch the display cover to place it in Standby mode.
  • Page 87: Taking The Computer Home

    Taking the Computer Home when you are moving from your office to your home or vice versa Preparing the Computer After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow these steps to prepare the computer for the trip home: Check if you have removed all media, diskette and compact disc, from the EasyLink™...
  • Page 88: Setting Up A Home Office

    Chapter 4 Moving with your Computer Setting Up a Home Office If you frequently work on your computer at home, it may be worthwhile purchasing a second AC adapter for use at home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid transporting the extra weight to and from home.
  • Page 89: Traveling With The Computer

    Traveling with the Computer when you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a client’s office building or traveling locally Preparing the Computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Be sure the battery in the computer is charged.
  • Page 90: Traveling Internationally With The Computer

    Chapter 4 Moving with your Computer Traveling Internationally with the Computer when you are moving from country to country Preparing the Computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What To Bring with You Bring the following items with you: Special Considerations Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer.
  • Page 91 If you are using the modem, check if the modem and connector is compatible with the telecommunications system of the country you are traveling in.
  • Page 92 Chapter 4 Moving with your Computer...
  • Page 93: Chapter 5 Software

    Software Chapter 5...
  • Page 94 This chapter discusses the important system utilities bundled with your computer.
  • Page 95 The computer comes preloaded with the following software: Windows 98 or Windows NT operating system BIOS Utility System utilities, drivers and application software Note: To access Windows software applications, click on the Start button and select the application folder. Then click on the application icon to run the selected application.
  • Page 96: Sleep Manager

    Chapter 5 Software Sleep Manager Most notebook computers feature built-in power-saving functions. This computer has two power management modes, Standby and Hibernation. While Standby puts your computer into a light sleep state, Hibernation shuts off all power after saving the current state of your computer.
  • Page 97 On the Taskbar The computer automatically loads Sleep Manager every time you start Windows. Sleep Manager resides in the background and appears as an icon on the taskbar. Double-click on the Sleep Manager status icon if enabled to bring up the main Sleep Manager program. The icon also shows the current status of the Hibernation feature, and changes to tell you if the feature is valid or not.
  • Page 98: Sleep Manager Functions

    Chapter 5 Software I I I I te te te tem m m m Buttons Current Setting On Board Information Recommended Size Enable Indicator on the Taskbar Sleep Manager Functions Create Sleep Manager automatically finds a contiguous area on your hard disk and creates the Hibernation file in this space.
  • Page 99 Select OK to automatically create the Hibernation file. Sleep Manager displays the recommend size based on onboard syste information. You can also choose Advanced>> to manually set the space settings and size. The advanced screen shows below. Sleep Manager automatically checks the system configuration and displays the recommended size.
  • Page 100: Remove

    Chapter 5 Software Remove If you want to use or take back the reserved space, click on the Remove button. This will disable the Hibernation feature. Instead, the computer will only be able to enter Standby mode. Minimize Minimize Sleep Manager by selecting the Minimize button. If the Enable indicator on taskbar box is checked, Sleep Manager will switch to the background by locating itself on the taskbar.
  • Page 101: Notebook Manager

    Notebook Manager The computer has a built-in system setup program called Notebook Manager. The Windows-based Notebook Manager allows you to set passwords, the startup sequence of the drives and power management settings. It also shows current hardware configurations. Note: Certain hot key functions are disabled when you access the Notebook Manager, because these functions are also found in the Notebook Manager.
  • Page 102: Information Viewer

    Chapter 5 Software Information Viewer Information Viewer summarizes and lists information about the specifications and settings of the different components of your computer. Note: Items in this table may differ from the ones onscreen. I I I I te te te tem m m m Total Memory Video RAM Hard Disk...
  • Page 103: Post

    I I I I t t t t e e e e m m m m Parallel Port External Cache Touchpad Pointing Device The current version of the computer’s BIOS shows before the Device-Configuration table. POST POST (Power On Self-Test) defines how your computer behaves when starting up.
  • Page 104: Boot Sequence

    Chapter 5 Software There are items in this screen include: I I I I te te te tem m m m Enable ACPI OS Fast POST Enable Quiet Boot Enable hotkey beep Boot Sequence Boot Sequence defines the boot sequence to follow when your computer boots up.
  • Page 105: Password

    Floppy Drive IDE Hard Drive CD-ROM/DVD-ROM Drive Simply drag and drop the devices to change the booting order. Click on Apply to accept. Password Password is used to set, modify or delete the password(s) for your computer. There are two passwords you can set using the Notebook Manager: Setup Password prevents unauthorized access to the Notebook Manager and BIOS Utility.
  • Page 106: Setting The Power-On Password

    Chapter 5 Software Setting the Power-On Password To set the Power-On Password, follow these steps: Setting the Setup Password To set the Setup Password, follow these steps: Click on the Change Power-On Password button. Click on the Enable Power-On Password checkbox. Click in the New Password textbox and type in up to seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) which you want to be your Power-On Password.
  • Page 107: Power Management

    Click in the New Password textbox and type in up to seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) which you want to be your Setup Password. Click in the Confirm Password textbox and retype the password. Click on OK. Note: To change a password, follow the same steps used to set a password. To remove a password, follow the same steps used to set a password but leave both fields blank.
  • Page 108: Setting Advanced Features

    Chapter 5 Software I I I I te te te tem m m m Enable sleep upon battery low Advanced Setting Advanced Features To set advanced features, do the following: Desc sc sc scr r r r ip ip ip ipt t t t ion De De Select to allow the computer to enter Standby or Hibernation mode when the computer runs low on...
  • Page 109: Display Device

    Display Device Display Device is used to control various settings related to display device(s), such as the display brightness level. The items in this screen include: I I I I t t t t e e e e m m m m Boot Display Device Switching Display Device Brightness for LCD Panel...
  • Page 110: Bios Utility

    Chapter 5 Software BIOS Utility The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/Ouput System). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run this program.
  • Page 111: System Information

    use the cursor up/down keys to move between the parameters use the cursor left/right keys to change the value of a parameter You can change the value of a parameter if it is enclosed in square brackets. press Esc to exit the current sub-menu At the main menu, press Esc to exit the BIOS Utility.
  • Page 112 Chapter 5 Software The following table describes the information in this sub-menu. Note: “x” may refer to a series of numbers and/or characters or a combination of both. Parameter CPU Type & Speed Floppy Disk Drive Hard Disk Drive HDD Serial Number System with System BIOS Version...
  • Page 113: Basic System Settings

    Parameter UUID The items in this sub-menu are important and vital information about your computer. If you experience computer problems and need to contact technical support, this data helps our service personnel know more about your computer. Basic System Settings The Basic System Settings sub-menu allows you to set the system date and time.
  • Page 114: Startup Configuration

    Chapter 5 Software Startup Configuration The Startup Configuration sub-menu contains parameter values that define how your computer behaves on system startup. The following table describes the parameters in this sub-menu. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Para ra ra rame Pa Pa Boot Display...
  • Page 115: Setting The Boot Drive Sequence

    Para ra ra rame Pa Pa mete te te ter r r r USB Function Support Hotkey Beep ACPI OS Fast Post Quiet Boot PnP OS Boot Drive Sequence Setting the Boot Drive Sequence The Boot Drive Sequence section lists boot priorities (1st, 2nd and 3rd) for bootable drives in your computer For example, the default value (1st:Floppy Disk, 2nd:Hard Disk, and 3rd:CD-ROM) tells the computer to first search for a bootable...
  • Page 116: Onboard Devices Configuration

    Chapter 5 Software To set the boot drive sequence, use the cursor up/down keys to select a priority level (1st, 2nd, or 3rd); then use the cursor left/ right keys to select the device for that priority level. Onboard Devices Configuration The parameters in this screen are for advanced users only.
  • Page 117: System Security

    Pa Pa Para ra ra rame mete te te ter r r r IrDA Port Parallel Port System Security The System Security sub-menu allows you to safeguard your computer and data with passwords and other security measures. Desc sc sc scr r r r i i i i p p p p t t t t ion De De Enables or disables the infrared port.
  • Page 118: Setting A Password

    Chapter 5 Software The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Parameter Setu Password Power-on Password Hard Disk Password Disk Drive Control Setting a Password Follow these steps: Description When set, this password protects the computer and this BIOS Utility from unauthorized entry.
  • Page 119: Removing A Password

    Important! Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen. Press Enter. Retype the password to verify your first entry and press Enter. After setting the password, the computer automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Present. Removing a Password Should you decide to remove a password, do the following: Use the cursor up/down keys to highlight a Password...
  • Page 120: Power Management

    Chapter 5 Software Power Management The Power Management screen contains parameters that are related to power-saving and power management. The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Note: If your system has ACPI, all power management functions are taken care of by Windows.
  • Page 121 Para ra ra rame Pa Pa mete te te ter r r r De De Desc sc sc scr r r r ip ip ip ipt t t t ion Turn Off Hard Sets the timeout value before Disk the hard disk enters power saving mode.
  • Page 122: Load Default Settings

    Chapter 5 Software Load Default Settings If you want to restore all parameter settings to their default values, select this menu item and press Enter. The following dialog box displays: If you would like to load default settings for all parameters, use the cursor left/right keys to select Yes;...
  • Page 123: Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Chapter 6...
  • Page 124 This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
  • Page 125: Frequently-Asked Questions

    Frequently-Asked Questions The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy answers and solutions are provided for each one. I pressed the power switch and opened the display, but the computer does not start or boot-up.
  • Page 126 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting If pressing a key does not turn the display back on, two things might be the cause: Image is not full-screen. Make sure the resolution is set to 800x600. Right-click on your Windows desktop and select Properties to bring up the Display Properties dialog box.
  • Page 127 The keyboard does not respond. Try attaching an external keyboard to the PS/2 connector on the computer’s rear. If it works, contact your dealer or an authorized service center as the internal keyboard cable may be loose. The serial mouse does not work. Check the following: Make sure that the serial cable is plugged securely into the serial port.
  • Page 128 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting I want to set up my location to use the internal modem. To properly use your communications software (e.g., HyperTerminal), you need to set up your location: Refer to the Windows manual. I get a “Not Enough Space for Allocation” error message from the Sleep Manager program.
  • Page 129 The free disk space that Sleep Manager requires needs to be contiguous. To solve this problem, use tools such as Disk Defragmenter (Windows) to compact these free disk spaces. Then run Sleep Manager again to create the file. Disk compression utilities are used. Sleep Manager can work with most compression software.
  • Page 130: Troubleshooting Tips

    Chapter 6 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Tips This notebook computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems. In addition, this series of notebook computers ship with PC-Doctor, a powerful diagnostic tool, that helps you determine hardware configuration and clarify hardware or software problems.
  • Page 131 If PC-Doctor does not report a system error, reinstall the software driver from the Recovery CD for the component you suspect has a problem. If you still have problems, you can access our online and Internet technical support services. Please see the following section for details.
  • Page 132: Online Services

    Chapter 6 Troubleshooting Online Services There are three ways to access Acer for technical support and information: You can view a list of technical support numbers by following these steps: Before you call Please have the following information available when you call Acer for online service, and please be at your computer when you call.
  • Page 133 Telephone number:_____________________________ Machine and model type:_______________________ Serial number:_________________________________ Date of purchase:______________________________...
  • Page 134: Error Messages

    Chapter 6 Troubleshooting Error Messages If you receive an error message, note the message and take the corrective action. The following table lists the error messages in alphabetical order together with the recommended course of action. Error Messages CMOS Battery Bad CMOS Checksum Error Disk Boot Failure Diskette Drive Controller Error...
  • Page 135 Error Messages Insert system diskette and press <Enter> key to reboot Keyboard Error or No Keyboard Connected Keyboard Interface Error Memory Size Mismatch Missing operating system Non-system disk or disk error. Replace and strike any key when ready. Pointing Device Error Pointing Device Interface Error Protected Mode Test Fail RAM BIOS Bad...
  • Page 136 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting Error Messages Video RAM BIOS Bad If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance. Some problems may be solved using the BIOS Utility. See “BIOS Utility” on page 90. Corrective Action Contact your dealer or an authorized service center.
  • Page 137: Appendix A Specifications

    Specifications Appendix A...
  • Page 139 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer. Microprocessor Intel Pentium® II processor with 256KB L2 cache memory Memory Main memory expandable to 256MB Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM) Two 144-pin industry-standard soDIMM sockets 64-bit dual memory banks 512KB Flash ROM BIOS Data Storage One 2.5-inch, 9.5mm removable hard disk...
  • Page 140 Appendix A Specifications Keyboard and Pointing Device I/O Ports Weight and Dimensions Temperature Sound Blaster Pro- (DOS Emulation) and Windows Sound System-compatible Separate audio ports for line-out, line-in and microphone-in devices 85-/89-key Windows keyboard Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device with scroll function One type II/I CardBus socket One RJ-11 modem jack (V.90-compliant 56Kbps) One power jack (DC-in)
  • Page 141 Non-operating: -20°C ~ 60°C Humidity (non-condensing) Operating: 20% ~ 80% RH Non-operating: 20% ~ 80% RH System Windows 98 or Windows NT (option) operating system with APM or ACPI DMI 2.1-compliant ADM support Battery Pack 30WattHour Lithium-Ion Smart battery management technology 2~3-hour rapid charge/6~7-hour charge-in-use AC Adapter 45-Watt...
  • Page 142 Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 143: Index

    Index Numerics 3D enhanced function enabling AC adapter xviii caring for connecting AcerMedia Drive ACPI. See Advanced Configuration and Power Interface Advanced Configuration and Power In- terface Advanced Power Management APM. See Advanced Power Management audio connecting externally troubleshooting battery installing battery pack battery-low warning...
  • Page 144 setting up a home office taking home traveling internationally traveling on local trips troubleshooting turning on connections AC adapter audio computer file transfer cable keyboard, external keypad, external monitor mouse mouse, PS/2 mouse, serial printer PS/2 y-bridge cable contrast setting in Notebook Manager date setting in Setup Utility diagnostics...
  • Page 145 Windows keys keyboard ergonomics keypad connecting externally LEDs media access on indicator memory 60–61 installing upgrading messages error modem monitor connecting mouse connecting externally troubleshooting 81–89 Notebook Manager Boot Sequence Display Device hot key Information Viewer Password POST Power Management starting notice copyright protection...
  • Page 146 startup troubleshooting PS/2 mouse connecting PS/2 y-bridge cable connecting questions multiple PS/2 devices setting location for modem use safety CD-ROM FCC notice general instructions lithium battery modem notices scroll lock security keylock passwords serial mouse connecting serial port setting in BIOS Utility service when to call Sleep Manager...

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