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Gateway E-4620 Reference Manual

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Summary of Contents for Gateway E-4620

  • Page 1 REFERENCEGUIDE ®...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Accessing your online User Guide ......2 Gateway contact information ......3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity .
  • Page 4 Contents Playing discs ........28 Creating discs .
  • Page 5 Managing hard drive space ......76 Checking hard drive space ......76 Deleting unnecessary files .
  • Page 6 Telephone support ........119 Before calling Gateway Customer Care ... . . 119 Telephone numbers .

  • Page 7: Chapter 1: About This Reference

    CHAPTER1 About This Reference • About this guide • Accessing your online User Guide • Gateway contact information • Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity • For more information...

  • Page 8: About This Guide

    CHAPTER 1: About This Reference About this guide This guide includes information and maintenance instructions that are specific to your model of Gateway computer. Some illustrations in this guide may look different than your computer because hardware options and port locations may vary.

  • Page 9: Gateway Contact Information

    Gateway contact information The label on the top or side of your computer contains information that identifies your computer model and serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance. Online support: Tech Support Phone: (U.S.)
  • Page 10 CHAPTER 1: About This Reference...

  • Page 11: Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer

    CHAPTER2 Checking Out Your Computer • Front • Back...

  • Page 12: Front

    CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Front Memory card reader or DVD/CD drive diskette drive (optional) Power button/ power indicator Hard drive activity indicator USB ports (optional) Headphone jack IEEE 1394 port (optional) Microphone jack...
  • Page 13 Component Icon Description Memory card Insert a memory card from a digital camera, reader or diskette MP3 player, PDA, cellular telephone, or other drive (optional) device into the memory card reader. Insert a 3.5" diskette (floppy) to read from and write to.

  • Page 14: Back

    CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Back Cover release lever Voltage switch Line out (headphones)/ Power connector front speaker jack Audio (line) in/side Microphone jack speaker jack Ethernet (network) jack USB ports Monitor (VGA) port Parallel port Serial port PS/2 mouse port PS/2 keyboard port Modem (line) jack Telephone jack (optional)
  • Page 15 Component Icon Description Cover release lever Pull this latch out to release the access panel. Voltage switch Make sure this switch is positioned correctly for the power in your area. Power connector Plug the power cord into this connector.
  • Page 16 CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Component Icon Description PS/2 keyboard port Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port. (purple) Telephone jack Plug your telephone into this jack. (optional)

  • Page 17: Chapter 3: Setting Up And Getting Started

    CHAPTER3 Setting Up and Getting Started • Working safely and comfortably • Preparing power connections • Connecting to a broadband modem or network • Connecting a dial-up modem • Starting your computer • Turning off your computer • Restarting (rebooting) your computer •...

  • Page 18: Working Safely And Comfortably

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Working safely and comfortably Before using your computer, follow these general guidelines for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain: • Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor. •...

  • Page 19: Reducing Eye Strain

    Reducing eye strain Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the screen or shine directly into your eyes. • Position the computer desk and monitor so you can avoid glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes.

  • Page 20: Sitting At Your Computer

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Sitting at your computer • Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type. • Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your back straight so your knees, hips, and elbows form right angles when you work.

  • Page 21: Connecting To A Broadband Modem Or Network

    An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your work and shut down your computer normally.

  • Page 22: Connecting A Dial-Up Modem

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Connecting a dial-up modem Warning To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord. Your computer may have a 56K modem that you can use with a standard telephone line to connect to the Internet or fax documents.

  • Page 23: Waking Up Your Computer

    To open your computer’s Start menu, click (Start). From that menu, you can run programs and search for files. For more information on using your computer’s menus, see “Using Windows” and “Customizing Windows” in your online User Guide. Waking up your computer For more information about changing the power button mode, see the “Customizing Windows”...
  • Page 24 CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started To put your computer in Sleep (power-saving) mode: Click (Start), then click (power). The computer saves your session and partially shuts down to save power. To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button.

  • Page 25: Restarting (Rebooting) Your Computer

    Restarting (rebooting) your computer To restart your computer: • Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns on again. - OR - If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the...

  • Page 26: Using The Keyboard

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the keyboard Premium multimedia keyboard features The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active. Function keys Indicators Editing buttons Internet buttons Audio playback buttons...

  • Page 27: Elite Multimedia Keyboard Features

    Feature Icon Description Windows keys Press one of these keys to open the Windows Start menu. These keys can also be used in combination with other keys to open utilities like F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer). Application key Press this key to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows.
  • Page 28 CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Description Sleep button Press this button to activate your computer’s Sleep (power-saving) mode. Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.

  • Page 29: Standard Keyboard Features

    Standard keyboard features Function keys Navigation keys Indicators Windows keys Application key Directional keys Numeric keypad Feature Description Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.

  • Page 30: Using The Mouse

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the mouse Scroll wheel Right button Left button The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer screen. This illustration shows the standard mouse. As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction.
  • Page 31 You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through a document. This feature is not available in all programs. To... Do this... Move the pointer Move the mouse around. If you on the screen reach the edge of your mouse...

  • Page 32: Using Optical Drives

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using optical drives Features Your optical drive has the following basic components: Disc tray Manual eject hole Activity indicator Eject button Loading an optical disc To insert an optical disc: Press the eject button on the optical disc drive. Important When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure that the label side is facing up or out.

  • Page 33: Identifying Optical Drive Types

    Identifying optical drive types Your computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive’s disc tray for one or more of the following logos: If your optical drive has Your drive type Use your drive for...

  • Page 34: Playing Discs

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started If your optical drive has Your drive type Use your drive for... this logo... is... DVD-RAM/-RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, RECORDER accessing data, and recording video and data to CDs and DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW discs.
  • Page 35 Playing a DVD A DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) 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. DVDs can be played on a DVD player or a DVD drive-equipped computer.

  • Page 36: Creating Discs

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Creating discs Recording to optical discs You can use the disc burning program on your computer to copy tracks from a music CD to your hard drive, copy or create data discs, create music CDs, create video DVDs, and more. For more information about creating CDs and DVDs, see your online User Guide.

  • Page 37: Using A Memory Card

    Using a memory card Caution Before inserting a memory card into a slot, make sure that the slot is empty, or you could damage the card reader. To insert a memory card: Insert the memory card into the appropriate memory card slot.

  • Page 38: Using The Diskette Drive

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the diskette drive The optional diskette drive uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called floppy disks). Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer. Drive activity light Diskette slot Eject button To load a diskette: Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up or to the right.

  • Page 39: Adjusting The Volume

    Adjusting the volume You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls, your keyboard controls, or the Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of specific sound devices in your computer. To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls: •...

  • Page 40: Installing A Printer, Scanner, Or Other Device

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Click Mixer. The Volume Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag sliders to adjust individual devices. Adjust the Windows Sounds slider to change system sounds volume independently of general volume (such as the volume used for music and game sounds).
  • Page 41 IEEE 1394 and 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 an IEEE 1394 or USB device for the first time, your computer will prompt you to install any software the device needs.
  • Page 42 CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started...

  • Page 43: Chapter 4: Upgrading Your Computer

    CHAPTER4 Upgrading Your Computer • Preventing static electricity discharge • Opening and closing the case • Removing and installing the front bezel • Replacing an optical or diskette drive, or a memory card reader • Replacing the hard drive • Installing memory •...

  • Page 44: Preventing Static Electricity Discharge

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Preventing static electricity discharge Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network cables before opening the case. To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes of the power supply.

  • Page 45: Opening And Closing The Case

    Opening and closing the case Your computer case provides easy access to internal components. Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer, then unplug the power cord and modem cable before opening the case.

  • Page 46: Removing And Installing The Front Bezel

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Removing and installing the front bezel To remove the front bezel: After removing the side panel, remove the hard drive bracket by lifting it out of the chassis. Set the assembly aside as far as the hard drive cables will permit.
  • Page 47 Swing the disengaged end of the bezel out until the tab at the other end of the bezel slides out of the computer. To replace the bezel, slide the tab on the top of the bezel into the slot in the top of the computer, then press the bottom of the bezel against the computer until the bezel’s tabs snap into the slots.

  • Page 48: Replacing An Optical Or Diskette Drive, Or A Card Reader

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing an optical or diskette drive, or a card reader To replace a drive or card reader: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page LIft the hard drive bracket out of the chassis. Remove the bezel by following the instructions in “Removing and installing the front bezel”...
  • Page 49 Disconnect the component cables, noting their locations and orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you install the new component. (DVD drive shown.) 5.25-inch component: - OR - 3.5-inch component:...
  • Page 50 CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer If you are removing a 5.25-inch component, pull down on the 5.25-inch bay’s release latch to the Unlock position, then slide the component forward and out of the bay. If you are only replacing a 5.25-inch component, note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the jumper on the new drive to be the same, then go to Step 12.
  • Page 51 Slide the new 3.5-inch component into the bay, then push down on the release latch to move it to the Lock position. Reconnect the cables on the 3.5-inch component, using the notes you took previously. Replace the 5.25-inch component bay into the chassis.

  • Page 52: Replacing The Hard Drive

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the hard drive To replace the hard drive: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 39, then remove the . LIft the hard drive bracket out of the chassis. Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and orientation.
  • Page 53 Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then slide the drive release latch down (toward the center of the bracket) to the Lock position. Reconnect the drive cables using the notes you took previously. Replace the hard drive bracket, then replace the side panel.

  • Page 54: Installing Memory

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Installing memory When you upgrade the computer memory, make sure that you install the correct type of memory module for your computer. Your computer uses DIMM memory. To install or replace DIMM memory: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case”...
  • Page 55 If you are removing a DIMM from the memory module bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module and remove it. - OR - If you are adding a DIMM to an empty memory module bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module bank.

  • Page 56: Adding Or Replacing An Expansion Card

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Adding or replacing an expansion card To add or replace an expansion card: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page Remove the hard drive bracket and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow).
  • Page 57 Pull open the card retention lever. Card retention lever If you are replacing an expansion card, remove the old card. You can slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to loosen the card, but do not bend the card sideways. Caution Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion card.

  • Page 58: Replacing The Front Fan

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the front fan To replace the front fan: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page Remove the hard drive bracket and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow).
  • Page 59 Disconnect the cables from the 5.25-inch component, noting their locations and orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you reinstall the component. (DVD drive shown.) Pull the release latch down to the Unlock position on the 5.25-inch bay, then slide the component forward and out of the bay.
  • Page 60 CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the four screws securing the fan to the fan shroud, then remove the old fan. Secure the new fan to the fan shroud with the four screws you removed in the previous step. Connect the new fan cable to the system board, then insert the new fan assembly into place.

  • Page 61: Replacing The Front I/O Board

    Replacing the front I/O board Tools Phillips screwdriver To replace the front I/O panel: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page Remove the hard drive bracket and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow).
  • Page 62 CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the screw that secures the I/O panel to the computer, then remove the I/O panel from the computer. Screw Position the new I/O panel on the front of the computer, then replace the screw. Connect the I/O panel cable to the new I/O panel.

  • Page 63: Replacing The Processor

    Replacing the processor Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the heat sink. To replace the heat sink and processor: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page Remove the hard drive bracket and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow).
  • Page 64 CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the fan assembly by squeezing it slightly (top to bottom) and pulling it away from the case. Lift the 5.25-inch component bay from the chassis. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.
  • Page 65 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. If the heatsink sticks to the processor, twist it slightly to release it, then try again. Screw Screw Screw Screw Cautions The heat sink has thermal paste on the bottom of the heat sink.

  • Page 66: Replacing The System Battery

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Place the new heat sink on the processor, making sure the thermal paste is aligned between the heat sink and the processor, then tighten the screws that secure the heat sink to the system board. Connect the fan cable to the system board, then reinstall the fan.
  • Page 67 Remove the hard drive bracket and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow). Locate the old battery on the system board and note its orientation. You will need to install the new battery the same way.

  • Page 68: Replacing The Power Supply

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Reconnect all external cables and the power cord. Return your computer to the upright position. Turn on your computer and open the BIOS Setup utility. In the BIOS Setup utility, restore any settings that you wrote down previously.
  • Page 69 Remove the four screws that secure the power supply to the computer. Screw Screw Screw Screw Slide the power supply away from the back of the computer, and remove it. Install the new power supply into the case, then install the four screws to secure the power supply to the case.

  • Page 70: Replacing The System Board

    CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the system board To replace the system board: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page Remove the hard drive bracket and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow).
  • Page 71 Pull the release latch down to the Unlock position on the 5.25-inch bay, then slide the component forward and out of the bay. Lift the 5.25-inch drive bay from the chassis to remove it. Disconnect the power and data cables from the system board, carefully noting their locations and orientation.
  • Page 72 CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the seven system board screws. Screws Screws Lift the system board up and out of the case. Align the new system board on the screw holes in the case, then secure it into the case with the screws you removed previously.
  • Page 73 Connect the power and data cables to the new system board using the notes you took previously, or use the following graphic as a guide: Front panel IDE connector Front (CPU) fan SATA connectors Power (main) Power (AUX) USB header...
  • Page 74 CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Reconnect the component cables using the notes you took previously. Connect the fan cable to the system board, then reinstall the fan. Reinstall any expansion cards you removed. Replace the front bezel, replace the hard drive bracket, then replace the side panel.

  • Page 75: Chapter 5: Maintaining Your Computer

    CHAPTER5 Maintaining Your Computer • Setting up a maintenance schedule • Caring for your computer • Cleaning your computer • Updating Windows • Using BigFix • Managing hard drive space • Scheduling maintenance tasks • Moving from your old computer...

  • Page 76: Setting Up A Maintenance Schedule

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Setting up a maintenance schedule Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule. Maintenance task Weekly Monthly When needed Check for viruses Run Windows Update Manage hard drive space Clean up hard drives Scan hard drive for errors Defragment hard drive Back up files...

  • Page 77: Caring For Your Computer

    Caring for your computer To extend the life of your computer: • 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.

  • Page 78: Cleaning Your Computer

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning your computer Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put together a computer cleaning kit: •...

  • Page 79: Cleaning The Keyboard

    Cleaning the keyboard You should occasionally clean the keyboard to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys. To clean the keyboard: Use an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.

  • Page 80: Cleaning Optical Discs

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning optical discs Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs) get dirty from frequent handling. To clean an optical disc: • Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle, using a product made especially for the purpose. Updating Windows Windows Update helps you keep your computer up-to-date.

  • Page 81: Using Bigfix

    Using BigFix Your computer may have BigFix software installed. BigFix monitors your computer for problems and conflicts. It automatically gathers information about the latest bugs, security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet. Whenever BigFix detects a problem, it alerts you by flashing the blue taskbar icon.

  • Page 82: Managing Hard Drive Space

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Managing hard drive space Windows provides several utilities you can use to check drive space, and to delete, defragment, and back up files. Checking hard drive space To check hard drive space: Shortcut Start Computer right-click drive Properties Click...

  • Page 83: Deleting Unnecessary Files

    Right-click the drive that you want to check for available file space, then click Properties. Drive space information appears. Deleting unnecessary files Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space.

  • Page 84: Checking The Hard Drive For Errors

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Click one of the options, then click OK: • My files only cleans only the folders for the currently logged in user. • Files from all users on this computer cleans all folders. Help For more information about keeping the hard drive free of unnecessary files, click Start, then click Help and Support.

  • Page 85: Defragmenting The Hard Drive

    Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked for errors. This process may take several minutes. Important Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used. If you try to check your hard drive for errors, you see a prompt asking you if you want to scan the hard drive later (the next time you restart your computer).
  • Page 86 CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer To defragment the hard drive: Disconnect your computer from the network. Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk Defragmenter dialog box opens. Click Defragment now. This process may take hours to complete, depending on the size of the drive being defragmented.

  • Page 87: Backing Up Files

    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.

  • Page 88: Scheduling Maintenance Tasks

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Scheduling maintenance tasks Task Scheduler lets you schedule maintenance tasks such as running Disk Defragmenter and checking your drives for errors. Important Your computer must be on during scheduled tasks. If your computer is off, scheduled tasks will not run.

  • Page 89: Moving From Your Old Computer

    Moving from your old computer Transferring files and settings automatically You can move your files, folders, software settings, and user account settings (such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings) from your old computer to your new one using Windows Easy Transfer.

  • Page 90: Transferring Files And Settings Manually

    CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Transferring files and settings manually You can manually transfer your personal data files by copying them to removable media, such as a writable disc, an external hard drive, a network location, or a flash drive. Finding your documents Many programs save your personal data files in the Documents folder.
  • Page 91 Finding other files Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data files. For more information, see “Using Windows” in your online User Guide. 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).
  • Page 92 CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer...

  • Page 93: Chapter6 Troubleshooting

    CHAPTER6 Troubleshooting • Safety guidelines • First steps • Troubleshooting • Recovering your system • Telephone support...

  • Page 94: Safety Guidelines

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Safety guidelines While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines: Warning Never open your computer case while your computer is turned on and while the modem cable, network cable, and power cord are connected. Warning Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal components.

  • Page 95: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order. Add-in cards “Expansion cards” on page Audio “Sound” on page 106. CD or DVD drives The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD or DVD drive • Make sure that the disc label is facing up or out, then try again.
  • Page 96 CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting An audio CD does not produce sound • Make sure that the disc label is facing up or out, then try again. • Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer. •...

  • Page 97: Diskette Drive

    Diskette drive The diskette drive is not recognized • Shut down and restart your computer. You cannot save a file to diskette or you see the message “disk is full or write-protected” • Make sure that the write-protection tab on the upper-right corner of the diskette is down (unprotected).

  • Page 98: Display

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The diskette drive LED is lit continuously • Remove the diskette from the drive. If the light stays on, try restarting your computer. Display The screen resolution is not correct • Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings dialog box.

  • Page 99: Ethernet

    Ethernet You cannot see the other computers on your network • Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the Ethernet jack on your computer. Make sure that the other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub, or other network device.

  • Page 100: Expansion Cards

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect • If your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect, check the speed of each Ethernet component. For best results, all Ethernet components should be standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or 10/100/1000 Mbps).

  • Page 101: Hard Drive

    Hard drive You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message • Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files, “Deleting unnecessary files” on page Help For more information about file management, click Start, then click Help and Support.

  • Page 102: Internet

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting You see a “Non-system disk” or “disk error” error message • Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press NTER Internet See also “Modem (dial-up)” on page You cannot connect to the Internet • If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack.

  • Page 103: Keyboard

    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 service • The condition of the Internet computers to which you...

  • Page 104: Memory

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Liquid spilled in the keyboard • If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard dry before using it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it.

  • Page 105: Modem (Cable Or Dsl)

    Modem (cable or DSL) My computer cannot connect to the Internet. • Make sure that your modem is connected to the network jack. For the location of your network jack, see your setup poster or “Back” on page •...
  • Page 106 CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Click the Dialing Rules tab, click the location from which you are dialing, then click Edit. Make sure that all settings are correct. Help For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword dialing in the Search Help box, then press E NTER •...
  • Page 107 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.

  • Page 108: Monitor

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Click the Diagnostic tab, then click 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.

  • Page 109: Mouse

    Mouse The mouse does not work • Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly. • Shut down and restart your computer. • Remove all extension cables and switch boxes. • Try a mouse you know is working to make sure that the mouse port works.

  • Page 110: Power

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Power Your computer will not turn on • Make sure that the power cord is connected to an AC power source and to your computer, and that your computer is turned on. • If your computer is plugged into a surge protector, make sure that the surge protector is connected securely to a power outlet, turned on, and working correctly.
  • Page 111 Right-click the printer you want to be the default printer, then click Set as Default Printer. • Reinstall the printer driver. See the guide that came with your printer for instructions on installing the printer driver. You see a “Printer queue is full” error message •...

  • Page 112: Sound

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Sound You are not getting sound from the speakers • Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page • Make sure that mute controls are turned off. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume”...

  • Page 113: Recovering Your System

    Problem solving may also involve re-installing some or all of the computer’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions. Caution To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you should create a set of software and driver recovery discs as soon as possible.

  • Page 114: Recovering Pre-Installed Software And Drivers

    (Your computer must have a recordable disc drive to perform this procedure.) To create discs for recovering pre-installed software and drivers: Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The Gateway Recovery Center opens.
  • Page 115 Click Applications and drivers external media, then click Next. The What would you like to do? dialog box opens. Click Create system recovery discs, then click Next. Insert a blank, recordable disc into a recordable disc drive, then click Next. If an AutoPlay dialog box opens, click the x in the upper-right corner to close it.
  • Page 116 Important If you have recently reinstalled Windows or installed a new hard drive, and your Start menu does not contain Gateway Recovery Center as an option, you must recover your software and drivers using software and driver recovery discs you have created. For instructions, see “Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”...
  • Page 117 To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click Hardware, then click Device driver recovery. Click the software or driver you want to recover, then click Next.
  • Page 118 Insert a software and driver recovery disc into a CD or DVD drive. If an AutoPlay dialog box appears, click Run Grc_Vista.exe. If an AutoPlay dialog box does not appear and Gateway Recovery Center does not start, open Computer and run the file Grc_Vista.exe on the disc.
  • Page 119 Click Next. If the software or driver is not shown on the list, and you have a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, close Gateway Recovery Center and try another disc.

  • Page 120: Using Microsoft System Restore

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Using Microsoft System Restore Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as restore points. In most cases of hard-to-resolve software problems, you can return to one of these restore points to get your system running again. Windows automatically creates an additional restore point each day, and also each time you install software or device drivers.
  • Page 121 On the left side of the window, click Repair Windows using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a restore point dialog box opens. Click the restore point you want, click Next, then click Finish. A confirmation message box appears.
  • Page 122 CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Manually creating a restore point To manually create a restore point: Click (Start), Control Panel, System and Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center. The Backup and Restore Center opens. On the left side of the window, click Create a restore point or change settings, then click Next.

  • Page 123: Recovering Your System To Its Factory Condition

    To delete everything on your hard drive and re-install all factory software: If you can still run Windows: Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The Gateway Recovery Center opens. Click Recovery, then click Next. Your computer restarts. If you cannot run Windows: Turn on or restart your computer.

  • Page 124: Recovering Your System Using The Windows Dvd

    CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting To perform a recovery with data backup (recommended), click Recovery with automatic data backup, then click Next. Important Before your hard drive is recovered, your personal files will be automatically backed up to c:\backup. - OR - To perform a full factory recovery without data backup, click Full factory recovery, then click Next.

  • Page 125: Telephone Support

    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, see the manufacturer’s documentation and technical support resources.

  • Page 126: Telephone Numbers

    The technician may have you follow troubleshooting steps. Telephone numbers Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, Customer Care, and information services. To access Customer Care services, contact Gateway at the telephone number or Web address listed on your computer’s Customer Care label.

  • Page 127: Tutoring

    Tutoring Answers by Gateway is a telephone service that provides answers to all of your “How do I...” questions on Gateway computers. For more information, go to www.gateway.com/answers. Training Gateway provides the following computer-based training: Resource Service description For more information...
  • Page 128 CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting...

  • Page 129: Appendix A: Legal Notices

    APPENDIXA Legal Notices • Important safety information • Regulatory compliance statements • Environmental information • Notices...

  • Page 130: Important Safety Information

    Always follow these instructions to help guard against personal injury and damage to your Gateway system. 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.

  • Page 131: Replacement Parts And Accessories

    • 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. Regulatory compliance statements United States of America Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 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.

  • Page 132: Fcc Declaration Of Conformity

    Phone: 800-846-2000 Caution Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Gateway could void the FCC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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.

  • Page 133: Laser Safety Statement

    CD or DVD drive. 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”...

  • Page 134: External Television Antenna Grounding

    If an outside antenna or cable system is to be connected to your Gateway PC, make sure that the antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection against voltage surges and static charges.
  • Page 135 Power lines Warning When installing or realigning an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits. Contact with them could be fatal. Do not locate the antenna near overhead light or power circuits, or where it could fall into such power lines or circuits.

  • Page 136: Environmental Information

    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.

  • Page 137: Macrovision Statement

    Gateway and the Black-and-White Spot Design are trademarks or registered trademarks of Gateway, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. 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.
  • Page 138 APPENDIX A: Legal Notices...

  • Page 139: Index

    Index See keys and buttons AC power connector accessories cable modem safety precautions connecting activity indicators troubleshooting See indicators Caps Lock indicator application buttons card reader application key cards arrow keys adding expansion audio inserting memory card analog speaker jack installing memory card audio in jack removing memory card...
  • Page 140 Index memory cards parallel power Certificate of Authenticity power cord cleaning printer audio CD PS/2 keyboard case PS/2 mouse scanner serial keyboard side speaker LCD panel telephone mouse screen video camera cleaning CRT screen Zip drive clicking copying closing CDs and DVDs unresponsive program CRT screen connecting...
  • Page 141 DVD drive Gateway adding contact information identifying model number replacing serial number troubleshooting Support See also optical drive Gateway Recovery Center re-installing drivers re-installing programs editing buttons re-installing software...
  • Page 142 Index hard drive jacks adding See connections backing up files checking for errors checking for free space keyboard defragmenting buttons deleting files and folders cleaning replacing features scanning for errors PS/2 port troubleshooting troubleshooting HD DVD drive USB port locating keys HD-DVD application...
  • Page 143 See indicators dial-up line in jack jack line out jack modem jack monitor cleaning maintenance troubleshooting backing up files monitor port BigFix mouse checking for drive errors buttons checking hard drive space changing settings cleaning cleaning case...
  • Page 144 Plug and Play devices defaults IEEE 1394 support for drivers USB support for programs pointer software moving system ports Windows monitor with Gateway Recovery See connections Center with Windows DVD power with Windows System button Restore connector recovery discs Hibernate mode...
  • Page 145 Scroll Lock indicator Windows scroll wheel with Gateway Recovery serial number Center with Windows DVD serial port with Windows System setting up Restore safety precautions removing files and folders settings...
  • Page 146 Web site connection speed telephone support training turning off computer turning on computer classroom tutoring Gateway Learning Libraries fee-based Learn With Gateway transferring files from old computer uninterruptible power supply (UPS) settings from old computer updating...
  • Page 147 Windows Easy Transfer Windows key Windows System Restore creating restore point Windows Update wired Ethernet troubleshooting working safely...
  • Page 148 Index...
  • Page 150 MAN 3BAY MBTX PRO REF GDE V R1 9/07...

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