Acer AN515-45 User Manual
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USER'S MANUAL

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Summary of Contents for Acer AN515-45

  • Page 1 USER’S MANUAL...
  • Page 2 © 2021. All Rights Reserved. NITRO 5 Covers: AN515-45 / AN515-56 / AN515-57 / AN517-41 / AN517-53 / AN517-54 This revision: August 2021 Important This manual contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright laws. The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Guidelines for safe battery usage.... 9 Charging the battery ........ 57 Internal battery ........11 Optimizing battery life ......58 Your Acer notebook tour Checking the battery level ....... 59 Screen view ..........13 Battery-low warning......... 59 Keyboard view ........14 Traveling with your computer Left view ..........
  • Page 4 4 - Table of contents Network connections ......86 Internet security software ....... 88 Surf the Net!..........88...
  • Page 5 • Where to find the power button, ports and connectors • Tips and tricks for using the touchpad and keyboard • How to create recovery backups • Guidelines for connecting to a network and using Bluetooth • Information on using Acer’s bundled software...
  • Page 6: First Things First

    We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer notebook, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup Guide helps you get started with setting up your computer and introduces the basic features and functions of your new computer.
  • Page 7: Basic Care And Tips For Using Your Computer

    Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. • Only use the adapter provided with your device, or an Acer- approved adapter to power your device. • Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it near sources of heat, such as a radiator.
  • Page 8: Taking Care Of Your Ac Adapter

    1. Turn off the computer. 2. Disconnect the AC adapter. 3. Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. If your computer is dropped or visibly damaged, or does not work normally, please contact your nearest authorized Acer service center.
  • Page 9: Guidelines For Safe Battery Usage

    • The charging port must be clean and free from debris and should only be used with Acer charging equipment. Use of a non-Acer battery or charging equipment can cause damage to the product and will void the warranty.
  • Page 10 • Device with removable battery: The battery should only be replaced with parts approved by Acer. Do not replace the battery with any parts other than approved ones. This notebook uses a Lithium-based battery. Do not use it in a humid, wet or corrosive environment.
  • Page 11: Internal Battery

    Wireless devices may be susceptible to interference from the battery, which could affect performance. Note Please refer to www.acer.com for battery shipping documents. Internal battery • Do not attempt to replace a built-in rechargeable battery, battery replacement must be done by an Acer- authorized repair facility.
  • Page 12 12 - First things first Recharge the battery by following the instruction included in the product documentation.
  • Page 13: Your Acer Notebook Tour

    O U R C E R N O T E B O O K T O U R After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Setup Guide, let us show you around your new Acer computer. Screen view Icon Item...
  • Page 14: Keyboard View

    14 - Your Acer notebook tour Keyboard view AN515-45 / AN515-56 / AN515-57 AN517-41 / AN517-53 / AN517-54 Icon Item Description For entering data into your Keyboard computer. See "Using the keyboard" on page 21.
  • Page 15 Your Acer notebook tour - 15 Icon Item Description Touch-sensitive pointing device. The touchpad and selection buttons form a single surface. Touchpad Press down firmly on the touchpad surface to perform a left click. Press down firmly on the lower right corner to perform a right click.
  • Page 16: Left View

    16 - Your Acer notebook tour Left view Icon Item Description Kensington lock Connects to a Kensington- slot compatible security lock. Allows the computer to stay cool. Ventilation and Do not cover or obstruct the cooling fan openings. Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/ Ethernet (RJ-45) 1000-based network.
  • Page 17: Right View

    Your Acer notebook tour - 17 Right view AN515-45 / AN515-57 / AN517-41 / AN517-54 AN515-56 / AN517-53 Icon Item Description Connects to USB devices with a USB Type-C port USB Type-C connector. (AN515-45/ Supports USB 3.2 Type-C, Gen 2...
  • Page 18: Usb Type-C Information (An515-56 / An517-53)

    USB 3.2 information • USB 3.2 Gen 1 compatible ports are blue. (AN515-56 / AN517-53) • USB 3.2 Gen 2 compatible ports are blue. (AN515-45 / AN515-57 / AN517-41 / AN517-54) • Compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 and earlier devices.
  • Page 19: Rear View

    Your Acer notebook tour - 19 Rear view Icon Item Description Connects to an AC adapter. DC-in jack Note: Please press the AC adapter into the tunnel to the power connector. You will feel a click indicating it is connected. Then, check the light of battery indicator shows amber while charging.
  • Page 20: Base View

    20 - Your Acer notebook tour Base view Icon Item Description Allows the computer to stay cool. Ventilation and Do not cover or obstruct the cooling fan openings. Speakers Deliver stereo audio output.
  • Page 21: Using The Keyboard

    Using the keyboard - 21 S I N G THE K E Y B O A R D The keyboard has full-sized keys, a numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows keys and hotkeys. Lock keys The keyboard has lock keys which you can use to turn keyboard functions on and off.
  • Page 22 22 - Using the keyboard Hotkey Icon Function Description Switches display output between the display screen, Fn + F5 Display toggle external monitor (if connected) and both. Turns the display screen Fn + F6 Display off backlight off to save power. Press any key to return.
  • Page 23: Windows Keys

    Using the keyboard - 23 Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Pressed alone it returns to the Start Windows key screen or to return to the last open app. This key has the same effect as clicking Application key the right mouse button.
  • Page 24: Using The Precision Touchpad

    24 - Using the Precision Touchpad S I N G THE RECISION O U C H P A D The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement.
  • Page 25 Using the Precision Touchpad - 25 Two-finger pinch Zoom in and out of photos, maps and documents with a simple finger-and-thumb gesture. Three-finger press Lightly tap the touchpad with three fingers to open the Search Windows. Three-finger swipe Swipe across the touchpad with three fingers. •...
  • Page 26: Changing Touchpad Settings

    26 - Using the Precision Touchpad The precision touchpad includes added technology features that help recognize and prevent unintentional gestures such as accidental taps, gestures, and pointer movement. Note The touchpad is sensitive to finger movement; the lighter the touch, the better the response.
  • Page 27 Using the Precision Touchpad - 27 you can adjust the touchpad sensitivity to suit your needs. Scroll down to see more settings.
  • Page 28: Recovery

    Acer provides Acer Care Center, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, backup files/data or create a factory default backup. If you cannot access Acer Care Center, click Settings in the Start menu, select Update & Security and then click Recovery.
  • Page 29 Recovery - 29 3. Plug in the USB drive (or a portable external hard drive) and click + to add a drive. Select the USB drive from the drop-down list. 4. Click More options to select back-up options which best fit your needs, such as schedule the backup interval, how long you want to keep those backups (default is Forever), which folders to be backed up or be excluded.
  • Page 30: Creating A Factory Default Backup

    30 - Recovery 6. Unplug the USB drive (or a portable external hard drive) and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on the backup, such as 'File History Recovery Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember.
  • Page 31 Recovery - 31 3. Plug in the USB drive and wait for the PC to detect the USB drive then click Next. 4. Everything on the drive will be deleted. Click Create to continue. 5. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 6.
  • Page 32: Backing Up Your Wireless And Lan Drivers

    32 - Recovery Important Write a unique, descriptive label on the backup, such as 'Windows Recovery Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember. Note Since the recovery backup requires at least 8 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 16 GB or larger.
  • Page 33 Recovery - 33 2. Select the Restore tab and click Get started to open the Recovery window.
  • Page 34 34 - Recovery 3. Click Get started to Choose an option. Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your operating system without removing your personal files. Click Next to continue. Important If you have apps installed on your PC, they will be removed. If you'd like not to restore apps and setting that came with your PC, go to Change settings and turn off the option to not restore preinstalled apps that came with this PC before proceeding the restore progress.
  • Page 35: Reset This Pc And Remove Everything

    Recovery - 35 4. Resetting the PC will reinstall Windows, change settings back to their factory defaults and remove all preinstalled apps and programs without removing your personal files. Click Reset to continue. This will take a while and your PC will restart. 5.
  • Page 36 36 - Recovery 2. Select the Restore tab and click Get Started to open the Recovery window.
  • Page 37 Recovery - 37 3. Click Get started to Choose an option. Select Remove everything to reset your PC back to its factory default. 4. Click Change settings to choose restore settings which best fit your needs. Then click Confirm to continue.
  • Page 38 38 - Recovery Make sure all settings are properly made, c lick Next to continue. Warning Turn on "Clean data" will remove all of your personal files and accounts, along with pre-existing drivers that may affect your Windows installation. 6. Click Reset to continue. 7.
  • Page 39: Using A Bluetooth Connection

    Using a Bluetooth connection - 39 SING A L U E T O O T H C O N N E C T I O N Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly over short distances between many different types of devices. Bluetooth-enabled devices include computers, cell phones, tablets, wireless headsets, and keyboards.
  • Page 40 40 - Using a Bluetooth connection 4. Select the device you wish to pair from the list of discovered devices. 5. After pairing, if there is a code displaying on the screen, enter that code on the device to proceed the connection. Note Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require both devices to enter a PIN.
  • Page 41: Connecting To The Internet

    Acer notebook computers feature a Flight mode hotkey that turns the network connection on or off. You can use the network...
  • Page 42 42 - Connecting to the Internet management options to turn your wireless network on/off or control what is shared over the network. To connect to a wireless network, please follow the steps below. 1. Ensure you have a wireless router/access point and current internet connection through the ISP of your choice.
  • Page 43 Connecting to the Internet - 43 4. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 5. If required, enter the network’s password.
  • Page 44: Connecting With A Cable

    44 - Connecting to the Internet Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature If your computer has a network port, plug one end of a network cable into the network port on your computer, and the other end into a port on your router (refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online.
  • Page 45: Nitrosense

    NitroSense - 45 I T R O E N S E Call up the NitroSense UI with a single touch of the dedicated NitroSense key to instantly provide a user interface for system configuration and also display system information. Better audio delivers a competitive edge as well as a more immersive experience.
  • Page 46: Fan Control

    Power Plan You can use various power plan to achieve optimal power usage in different scenarios. Note The Balance Acer Optimized mode is only supported on preload operating system.
  • Page 47: Monitoring

    Hover on the bar to show information for the time. NitroSense Acer TrueHarmony settings Click the Settings icon to change settings for your Nitro system. You can enable/disable Sticky keys or Windows and menu key.
  • Page 48 48 - NitroSense To get a different audio experience, you can click Acer TrueHarmony icon to adjust the audio mode. Note Function varies depending on configuration.
  • Page 49: Bluelight Shield

    Bluelight Shield - 49 L U E L I G H T H I E L D The Bluelight Shield can be enabled to reduce blue-light emissions from the screen to protect your eyes. To configure the Bluelight Shield, search for ’Quick Access’ in the Start Menu.
  • Page 50 50 - Bluelight Shield Note Specifications vary depending on model or Operating System.
  • Page 51 Keeping your computer and data safe... In this section you will find: • How to secure your computer • Setting passwords • What you need to prepare when you’re traveling • How to get the most out of your battery...
  • Page 52: Securing Your Computer

    52 - Securing your computer E C U R I N G Y O U R C O M P U T E R Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer. Security features include hardware and software locks —...
  • Page 53: Entering Passwords

    Securing your computer - 53 Entering passwords When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen. • When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you enter the BIOS utility. • Type the Supervisor Password and press Enter to access the BIOS utility.
  • Page 54: Bios Utility

    54 - BIOS utility B I O S U T I L I T Y The BIOS utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS. Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not normally need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it.
  • Page 55: Power Management

    Power management - 55 OWER M A N A G E M E N T 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, hard disk, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory.
  • Page 56 56 - Power management 4. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 5. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.
  • Page 57: Battery Pack

    Battery pack - 57 A T T E R Y P A C K The computer uses an embedded Lithium battery that gives you long use between charges. Battery characteristics The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the AC adapter.
  • Page 58: Optimizing Battery Life

    58 - Battery pack Follow these steps again until the battery has been charged and discharged three times. Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't been used for a long time. Warning Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 45°...
  • Page 59: Checking The Battery Level

    Battery pack - 59 Checking the battery level The power meter indicates the current battery level. Rest the cursor over the battery/power icon on the taskbar to see the battery's present charge level. Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the power meter. Important Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears.
  • Page 60: Traveling With Your Computer

    60 - Traveling with your computer R A V E L I N G WI T H YOUR C O M P U TE R This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer. Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories:...
  • Page 61: What To Bring To Meetings

    Traveling with your computer - 61 When you are ready to use the computer again, open the display and, if necessary, press and release the power button. Note The computer may enter Hibernation or Deep Sleep mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time.
  • Page 62: What To Take With You

    62 - Traveling with your computer What to take with you Unless you have some items at home, take the following items with you: • AC adapter and power cord. • The printed Setup Guide. Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work: •...
  • Page 63: Traveling With The Computer

    Traveling with your computer - 63 Traveling with the computer Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries. 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.
  • Page 64: Traveling Internationally

    64 - Traveling with your computer Traveling internationally Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries. When you are moving from country to country. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling.
  • Page 65 Ports and connectors... In this section you will find: • Information on the ports and connectors fitted to your computer...
  • Page 66: Universal Serial Bus (Usb)

    USB) and USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 devices should always be plugged into USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 ports.
  • Page 67: Usb Type-C Port

    The Type-C port is reversable; connectors may be inserted with either side up. Note On Acer computers USB Type-C ports support up to USB 3.2 (SuperSpeed USB, 10 Gbps). Other USB devices with a USB Type-C connector are supported, but transfer speed may be reduced and certain functions will be disabled (such as Thunderbolt video support).
  • Page 68: Thunderbolt 4 Port

    68 - Thunderbolt 4 port H U N D E R B O L T PORT A Thunderbolt 4 port allows you to easily connect devices with a Type-C connector to your computer, such as additional storage (e.g. an external drive), displays, or any other compatible device.
  • Page 69: Video And Audio Connectors

    Video and audio connectors - 69 ID EO A N D A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Add an external monitor to your computer via a video port. The type of port available depends on your computer’s configuration. Connecting a monitor 1.
  • Page 70: Hdmi

    70 - HDMI H D M I HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a high-quality, digital audio/video interface. HDMI allows you to connect any compatible digital audio/video source, such as your computer, a set-top box, DVD player, and audio/video receiver to any compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV) with a single cable.
  • Page 71 Got a question? In this section you will find: • Frequently asked questions • Tips for using Windows 10 • Troubleshooting information • How to protect yourself while online • Where to find Acer service center contact information...
  • Page 72: Frequently Asked Questions

    72 - Frequently asked questions R E Q U E N T L Y A SK ED Q U E S T I O N S The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy solutions are provided for each one.
  • Page 73 Frequently asked questions - 73 No audio is heard from the computer. Check the following: • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and drag the slider to the right to increase the volume. •...
  • Page 74: Requesting Service

    1. If there is a D2D Recovery setting in Main, make sure it is Enabled. 2. Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot. Note To access the BIOS utility, press F2 when you see the Acer logo during boot For more information, see Restoring your computer on page...
  • Page 75 Frequently asked questions - 75 You are required to provide the following information: Name: Address: Telephone number: Machine and model type: Serial number: Date of purchase:...
  • Page 76: Tips And Hints For Using Windows 10

    F r e q u e n t ly a sk 76 - Frequently asked questions Tips and hints for using Windows 10 We know this is a new operating system that will take some getting used to, so we've created a few pointers to help you get started.
  • Page 77 Frequently asked questions - 77 Can I personalize the Lock screen? You can personalize the lock screen with a different image, to run a slideshow of images, or to show you quick status and notifications to suit your personal needs. To change the background, press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button and select Settings >...
  • Page 78: How Do I Set The Alarm

    78 - Frequently asked questions Can I make tiles bigger or smaller? Yes, you can. Right-click on a tile and select Resize. Select a size from the menu that appears. Can I change the screen resolution? Yes, you can. Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and type 'Resolution' in the text box to display the results;...
  • Page 79: Where Are My Apps

    Frequently asked questions - 79 8. Select On or Off to activate or deactivate the alarm. Hour Minutes Save Delete Note The alarm will only sound if your computer is awake at the set time. Where are my apps? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and click search box, start typing the name of the app you would like to open.
  • Page 80: What Is A Microsoft Id (Account)

    80 - Frequently asked questions How do I install apps? You will need to have a Microsoft ID to purchase and download apps from Microsoft Store. I can't find apps like Notepad and Paint! Where are they? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and click search box.
  • Page 81: Where Can I Get More Information

    Frequently asked questions - 81 Where can I get more information? For more information please visit the following pages: • Windows 10 information: www.microsoft.com • Support FAQs: support.acer.com...
  • Page 82: Troubleshooting

    F r e q u e n t l y a s ke d q ue s t io n s 82 - Frequently asked questions Troubleshooting This chapter shows you 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.
  • Page 83 Frequently asked questions - 83 Error messages Corrective action Hard disk 0 Contact your dealer or an authorized service extended type center. error Contact your dealer or an authorized service I/O parity error center. Keyboard error or Contact your dealer or an authorized service no keyboard center.
  • Page 84: 84 - Internet And Online Security

    84 - Internet and online security N T E R N E T A N D ONLI NE S E C U R I T Y First steps on the net Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the internet (see Internet security software on page 88).
  • Page 85 Internet and online security - 85 modem and the telephone simultaneously on a single phone line. This type of connection is recommended only if you have limited use of the internet as the connection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour. DSL (e.g.
  • Page 86 86 - Internet and online security your computer, or may require an external device, such as a USB modem or even an appropriately equipped mobile phone. Note If your computer includes a SIM card slot, you require a compatible SIM card and a contract with a cellular provider.
  • Page 87 Internet and online security - 87 Components of a wireless LAN To set up your Wireless network at home you need to have the following: Access point (router) Access points (routers) are two-way transceivers that broadcast data into the surrounding environment. Access points act as a mediator between wired and wireless network.
  • Page 88 Acer is dedicated to provide you with on-going personalized support. Check out our Support section to get help tailored to your needs. www.acer.com is your portal to a world of online activities and services: visit us regularly for the latest information and downloads!
  • Page 89 Internet and online security - 89 Ensure your software is up to date Cybercriminals rely heavily upon software platform vulnerabilities, as they are the easiest way to sneak malware into a user's device unnoticed, sometimes with little action on the user's part.
  • Page 90 90 - Internet and online security Common threats cybercriminals use Now you know a few very common ways cybercriminals try to sneak onto your device or trick you into providing private information to them directly. Here are a few of the types of malware they like to deploy once they've got into a device and what to do if you're ever infected.
  • Page 91 Internet and online security - 91 What to do if you're infected: If you're infected you probably don't realize it as bots are notoriously quiet. Your Internet Service Provider might send you a notification alerting you that they found a threat on your network and that you need to remove the bot.
  • Page 92 92 - Internet and online security can encrypt all the data that you send and receive while using a public Wi-Fi hotspot, securing your information from hackers and other users of the same connection. For more tips on how to stay safe Good security habits can reduce your exposure to online crime.

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