Acer Aspire 1450 series User Manual
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Acer Aspire 1450 series User Manual

Acer Aspire 1450 series User Manual

Acer notebook computer user's guide aspire 1450
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  • Page 1 Acer Aspire 1450 series User’s guide...
  • Page 2 Copyright © 2003 All Rights Reserved Acer Aspire 1450 Series Notebook Computer User's Guide Original Issue: September 2003 Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications.

  • Page 3: First Things First

    You are advised to read it thoroughly and keep it handy for future reference. For more information on our products, services, and support, please visit our web site: www.global.acer.com. Basic care and tips for using your computer Turning your computer on and off To turn on your computer, open the lid and press the power button above the keyboard.

  • Page 4: Taking Care Of Your Computer

    Note: If you are unable to shut down the computer in the usual way, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds. You should then wait at least two seconds before turning the computer on again. Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.

  • Page 5: Taking Care Of Your Battery Pack

    Taking care of your battery pack It is also important that you look after your computer's battery pack. • Use the correct battery model for your computer. Do not use other kinds of batteries. • Turn the power off before removing or replacing the battery. •...

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    First things first Your guides Basic care and tips for using your computer Getting familiar with your computer A tour of your computer Front open view Front view Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Features Indicators Using the Keyboard Special keys Touchpad Touchpad basics...
  • Page 8 Optimizing battery life Battery-low warning Power management Peripherals and options External display devices External input devices External keyboard External keypad External pointing device USB devices IEEE 1394 Port Printer Audio devices Expansion devices PC Card Miscellaneous options Battery pack AC adapter Key component upgrades Memory upgrade Hard disk upgrade...
  • Page 9 Software System software Launch Manager BIOS Setup Utility Troubleshooting Frequently asked questions Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Before you call Appendix A Specifications Appendix B Notices Index...

  • Page 11: Getting Familiar With Your Computer

    Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 12 Your Aspire 1450 series notebook computer combines solid performance, versatility, multimedia capabilities and portability with a stylish design. Increase your productivity by working wherever you are. This chapter provides an in-depth "tour" of your computer's features.

  • Page 13: A Tour Of Your Computer

    A tour of your computer After setting up your new Aspire notebook computer, as illustrated in the Just for starters… poster, take a few minutes to explore the unit. Front open view Item Display screen Power button Touchpad Description Also called LCD (liquid-crystal display), displays computer output.

  • Page 14: Front View

    Item Click buttons (left, center and right) Palmrest Keyboard Status indicators Microphone Launch keys Front view Item Speaker Getting familiar with your computer Description The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons; the center button serves as a 4-way scroll button.
  • Page 15 Item 4-in-1 card reader 4-in-1 card reader indicator Infrared port Bluetooth button Bluetooth indicator InviLink button InviLink indicator Latch Notes: 1.Four-in-one card reader is a manufacturing option, subject to configuration. Only one card can operate at any given time. 2.Bluetooth button and indicator work on models with Bluetooth only.

  • Page 16: Left View

    Left view Item Four USB 2.0 ports IEEE 1394 port PC Card slot PC Card eject button Line-in jack Microphone jack Headphone/ Speaker/ Line-out jack Getting familiar with your computer Description Connect to Universal Serial Bus devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). Connects to IEEE 1394 devices.

  • Page 17: Right View

    Right view Item Optical drive Optical disc access indicator Optical drive eject button Optical drive emergency eject hole Power jack Description Depending on your model, the optical drive is one of the following: • DVD-ROM drive for reading CDs and DVDs.

  • Page 18: Rear View

    Rear view Item Modem jack Network jack Parallel port External display port S-video Security keylock Getting familiar with your computer Description Connects to a phone line. Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based network. Connects to a parallel device (e.g., parallel printer). Connects to a display device (e.g., external monitor, LCD projector) .

  • Page 19: Bottom View

    Bottom view Item Battery bay Battery release latch Battery lock Mini-PCI slot Hard disk protector Hard disk bay Memory compartment Description Houses the computer's battery pack. Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack. Locks the battery in place. Slot for adding mini-PCI cards. Protects the hard disk from accidental bumps and vibration.
  • Page 20 Item Cooling fan Personal identification slot Getting familiar with your computer Description Helps keep the computer cool. Note: Don’t cover or obstruct the opening of the fan. Insert a business card or similar-sized identification card to personalize your computer.

  • Page 21: Features

    Features Performance • AMD Athlon XP-M processor at available in 1800 higher. • Memory upgradeable up to 2 GB with 2 slots (Only one slot for user accessible) • High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE hard disk • Li-ion main battery pack • Microsoft Windows XP operating system Display •...
  • Page 22 SD/MMC/SM/MS memory slot (manufacturing optional) Human-centric design and ergonomics • Internet 4-way scroll button • Sleek, smooth and stylish design • Acer FinTouch full-sized curved keyboard • Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device Expansion • One type II CardBus PC Card slot •...

  • Page 23: Indicators

    Indicators The computer has three easy-to-read status indicators below the dis- play screen, and two on the front of the computer. The Power and Battery status indicators are visible even when the dis- play is closed. Icon Function Caps lock Num lock Media Activity Power...

  • Page 24: Using The Keyboard

    Using the Keyboard The full-sized keyboard includes an embedded numeric 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. Lock Key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters are typed in...

  • Page 25: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric key- pad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right cor- ner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys. Desired Access Num lock On Number keys on...

  • Page 26: Windows Keys

    Windows keys The keyboard features two keys that provide Windows-specific functions. Description Windows logo Start button. Combinations with this key perform shortcut functions. Below are a few examples: + Tab (Activates next taskbar button) + E (Explores My Computer) + F (Finds Document) + M (Minimizes All) Shift + + R (Displays the Run...

  • Page 27: Hot Keys

    Hot keys Using the Fn key with another key creates a hot key, providing a quick and convenient method for controlling various functions. To use a hot key, first hold down the Fn key. Next, press the second key in the combination. Finally, release both keys. Your computer provides the following hot keys: Hot key Icon...
  • Page 28 Hot key Icon Function Fn-F5 Display toggle Fn-F6 Screen blank Fn-F7 Touchpad toggle Fn-F8 Speaker toggle Fn-↑ Volume up Fn-↓ Volume down Fn-→ Brightness up Fn- ← Brightness down Getting familiar with your computer Description Switches display output between the display screen, external monitor (if connected) and both the display screen and external...

  • Page 29: The Euro Symbol

    The Euro symbol If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International or United Kingdom or if you have a keyboard with a European layout, you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard. Note for US keyboard users: The keyboard layout is set when you first set up Windows.
  • Page 30 Getting familiar with your computer Note: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol. Please refer to www.microsoft.com/typography/faq/faq12.htm for more information.

  • Page 31: Touchpad

    Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a 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 palmrest provides optimum comfort and support. Note: When using an external USB mouse, you can press Fn-F7 to disable the touchpad.
  • Page 32 Tapping on the touchpad produces similar results. • Use the 4-way scroll (2) button (top/bottom/left and right) to scroll a page up, down, left or right. This button mimics your cursor pressing on the vertical and horizontal scroll bars of Windows applications.

  • Page 33: Launch Keys

    Launch Keys Located above the keyboard are five buttons. The left-most button is the power button. To the right of the power button are the four launch keys. They are designated as the mail button, the web browser button, and two programmable buttons (P1 and P2). Launch key Default application Mail...
  • Page 34 Getting familiar with your computer Aside from the email checking function, there is a mail button that is used to launch the email application. It is located above the keyboard right below the LCD.

  • Page 35: Storage

    Storage This computer supplies you with the following media storage: • The High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk • The high speed optical drive Hard disk The high-capacity hard disk is the answer to your storage needs. This is where your programs and data are stored. Optical drive Depending on your model, you have a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, DVD/CD- RW combo drive,DVD-R, or DVD dual drive.

  • Page 36: Emergency Ejection Of The Optical Drive Tray

    Ejecting the optical drive tray To eject the optical drive tray when the computer is turned on, press the drive eject button. To load an optical disc: • Place a CD or DVD on the open tray. Align the disc's center hole with the tray's spindle.

  • Page 37: Audio

    Audio The computer comes with 16-bit high-fidelity AC’97 stereo audio, and includes a built-in sensitive microphone and dual stereo speakers. There are audio ports on the left of the computer. See “Left view” on page 6 for more information on connecting external audio devices. Adjusting the volume Adjusting the volume on the computer is as easy as pressing some buttons.

  • Page 38: Connectivity Options

    Getting familiar with your computer Connectivity options Your computer has built-in connectivity options, enabling you to hook up to a network or communicate over a phone line. Ethernet and LAN The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based (10/100Mbps) network.

  • Page 39: Fax/Data Modem

    Fax/data modem Your computer has a built-in V.92 56Kbps AC’97 Link fax/data modem. Warning: This modem port is not compatible with digital phone lines. Plugging the computer into a digital phone system will damage the modem. To use the fax/data modem port, connect a phone cable from the modem port to a telephone jack.

  • Page 40: Fast Infrared

    Getting familiar with your computer Fast infrared The computer’s fast infrared (FIR) port allows you to do wireless data transfer with other IR-aware computers and peripherals such as PDAs (personal digital assistants), mobile phones, and infrared printers. The infrared port can transfer data at speeds of up to four megabits per second (Mbps) at a distance of up to one meter.

  • Page 41: Securing Your Computer

    Securing your computer 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 — a security notch, Smart Card and passwords. Using a computer security lock A security keylock notch located on the left panel of the computer lets you connect a Kensington-compatible computer security lock.

  • Page 42: Entering Passwords

    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 43: Operating On

    Operating on battery power...
  • Page 44 Your Aspire 1450 series notebook computer operates on battery or AC power. This chapter provides information for operating on battery power, as well as information on how your computer manages and saves power.

  • Page 45: Battery Pack

    Battery pack The computer uses a re-chargeable Li-Ion battery pack. Battery pack characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: • Employs current battery technology standards. • Delivers a battery-low warning. The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the mains power supply.

  • Page 46: Installing And Removing The 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. If the computer is to be stored for more than two weeks, you are advised to remove the battery pack from the unit.

  • Page 47: Charging The Battery

    To remove a battery pack: Slide the battery release latch to release the battery. Pull the battery from the battery bay. Charging the battery To charge the battery, first make sure that it is correctly installed in the battery bay. Plug the AC adapter into the computer, and connect to a mains power outlet.

  • Page 48: Battery-Low Warning

    Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the Windows Power Meter. Warning: Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears. Data will be lost if the battery to become fully depleted and the computer shuts down.

  • Page 49: Power Management

    Power management Your computer features a built-in power management unit that constantly monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, touchpad/mouse, floppy disk drive, hard disk drive, optical drive, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (the settings are controlled in Windows Power Management), the computer turns off some, or all, of these devices in order to conserve power.
  • Page 50 Operating on battery power...

  • Page 51: Peripherals And Options

    Peripherals and options...
  • Page 52 Your Aspire 1450 series notebook computer offers good expansion capabilities. This chapter provides information on connecting peripherals to expand your system. It also describes how to upgrade key components to enhance system performance and keep your computer in step with the latest technology.

  • Page 53: External Display Devices

    External display devices You can connect an external (VGA) monitor or projector to your computer's external display port. See the section entitled "Display" for information on using the computer's simultaneous display and multi- display features. Use the Fn + F5 hot key to toggle the display setting between the computer's LCD panel and the external display device.

  • Page 54: Usb Devices

    Peripherals and options USB devices Your computer features four USB (Universal Serial Bus) 2.0 ports for connecting a range of USB peripherals. See “External input devices” on page 43 and “Printer” on page 46 for information on connecting a USB keyboard, keypad, mouse or printer.

  • Page 55: Ieee 1394 Port

    IEEE 1394 Port The computer’s IEEE 1394 port allows you to connect to an IEEE 1394 supported device like a digital video camera. See your video or digital camera’s documentation for details.

  • Page 56: Printer

    Printer Your computer supports both parallel and USB printers. Refer to the printer's manual for information on: • Setting up the hardware. • Installing the necessary drivers in Windows. • Operating instructions. To use a USB printer, simply connect the device to one of your computer's USB ports, and then wait for Windows to find the new hardware.

  • Page 57: Expansion Devices

    Expansion devices PC Card Your computer features a PC card slot that supports a standard Type II PC card (PCMCIA or CardBus). This greatly increases your computer's usability and expandability. A variety of PC cards are available, such as flash memory, SRAM, fax/data modem, LAN, and SCSI cards. Consult your dealer for information on PC card options for your computer.
  • Page 58 To remove a PC card: Close the application that is using the PC card. Double click on the PC card icon on the taskbar, and then select the option to safely remove the card. Wait for the message telling you that it is now safe to remove the card. Press the PC card eject button to partially eject the card.

  • Page 59: Miscellaneous Options

    Miscellaneous options Battery pack It is a good idea to have a spare battery, especially when you travel with your computer. This greatly increases your productive range when you are on the move. AC adapter Having a spare AC adapter allows you to keep one in two different places.

  • Page 60: Key Component Upgrades

    Key component upgrades Your computer is designed to deliver solid performance. However, in time, you might find that your applications demand even more computing power. For this reason, you are able to upgrade key components. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.

  • Page 61: Hard Disk Upgrade

    Insert the memory module diagonally into the slot (a), then gently press it down (b) until it clicks into place. Replace the memory cover and secure it with the screw. Reinstall the battery pack, and reconnect the AC adapter. Turn on the computer. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size.
  • Page 62 Peripherals and options...

  • Page 63: Moving With Your Computer

    Moving with your computer...
  • Page 64 Your Aspire 1450 series notebook computer is ideal for taking with you when you move around. This chapter provides tips on things to consider when traveling with your computer.

  • Page 65: Disconnecting From The Desktop

    Disconnecting from the desktop Before moving with your computer, you must turn it off and disconnect all peripherals: Save your work and close all applications. Shut down Windows to turn off your computer. Unplug the AC adapter from the mains outlet, and then disconnect it from the computer.

  • Page 66: Moving Around

    Moving with your computer Moving around Sometimes you might need to move your computer a short distance. For example, you might need to move from your office desk to a meeting room. In these situations, you don't have to shut down the operating system.

  • Page 67: Taking The Computer Home

    Taking the computer home When you move between your office and home you will need to prepare your computer for the short trip. Preparing the computer After disconnecting your computer from the desktop, prepare the unit as follows: Remove all media from the drives. Loaded media can damage the drive heads during transit.

  • Page 68: Setting Up A Home Office

    Moving with your computer Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, as well as at work, it may be worthwhile purchasing a second AC adapter. This will allow you to travel lighter, as you can keep an AC adapter in each location. You might also find it worthwhile keeping a second set of peripherals at home, such as a keyboard, keypad, mouse and printer.

  • Page 69: Traveling With The Computer

    Traveling with the computer Sometimes you might need to make longer trips with your computer. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would for moving between your office and home. It is advisable to make sure that the battery is fully charged. If you are traveling by air, you might be required to turn on the computer during security checks.

  • Page 70: Traveling Internationally With Your Computer

    Traveling internationally with your computer Occasionally you might need to travel between countries with your computer. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would for normal travel. Remember to take special precautions for air travel. What to take with you It is advisable to take the following items with you: •...

  • Page 71: Software

    Software...
  • Page 72 Your Aspire 1450 series notebook computer includes system utilities. This chapter provides information on the important software that comes with your computer.

  • Page 73: System Software

    System software Your computer comes preloaded with the following software: • Microsoft Windows operating system. • Hardware BIOS setup utility. • System utilities, drivers and application software. Note: To run software applications in Windows, first click on the Start button. Next, select the appropriate folder, and then click on the application icon.

  • Page 74: Bios Setup Utility

    Software BIOS Setup Utility The BIOS (basic input/output system) contains important information used to configure the hardware and system software settings. Your computer reads the BIOS when it first starts up, before it loads the operating system. Your computer's BIOS includes a built-in setup utility called Insyde Software SCU (system configuration utility).

  • Page 75: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting...
  • Page 76 This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Please read it before calling a technician. Solutions to more serious problems may require opening the computer. Do not attempt to open and service the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.

  • Page 77: Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently asked questions This section suggests solutions to commonly encountered problems. I press the power button, but my computer does not start or boot-up. Look at the Power status indicator: • If it is not lit, no power is being delivered to the computer. Check the following: If you are running on battery power, the battery may be low and unable to power the computer.
  • Page 78 There is no audio coming from my computer. Check the following: • The volume may be muted. In Windows, look at the volume control icon on the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click on the icon and deselect the Mute option. •...
  • Page 79 The optical drive cannot read a disc. Check the following: • Make sure that the disc is supported by the drive. If your computer has a CD-ROM drive, it can read CDs but cannot read DVDs. If your computer has a DVD drive, it can read CDs and DVDs. •...

  • Page 80: Requesting Service

    Place your proof-of- purchase in the flap located inside the front cover of the 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 81 You are required to provide the following information: Name:______________________________________ Address:____________________________________ ___________________________________________ Telephone number:___________________________ Machine and model type:______________________ Serial number:_______________________________ Date of purchase:____________________________...
  • Page 82 Troubleshooting...

  • Page 83: Appendix A Specifications

    Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 84 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
  • Page 85 Microprocessor • AMD Athlon XP-M processors at 1800 Memory • Main memory expandable to 2GB • Dual 200-pin soDIMM sockets • Support 256M, 512M & 1GB DDR 333 RAM • 512 KB flash ROM BIOS Data storage • One high-capacity E-IDE hard disk •...
  • Page 86 I/O ports • One type II CardBus PC Card slot • One RJ-45 network jack (Fast Ethernet 10/100) • One RJ-11 modem jack (V.92, 56K) • One DC-in jack • One parallel port (ECP/EPP) • One VGA port for external monitor •...
  • Page 87 Power • 65Wh 8-cell Li-Ion battery pack • 90-Watt AC adapter, auto sensing 100~240 Vac, 50~60Hz Options • 256/512 MB or 1 GB memory upgrade module • Additional AC adapter • Additional battery pack • USB Floppy drive • 802.11g wireless LAN •...
  • Page 88 Appendix A Specifications...

  • Page 89: Appendix B Notices

    Appendix B Notices...
  • Page 90 This appendix lists the general notices for your computer.
  • Page 92 Appendix B Notices...

  • Page 93: Modem Notices

    Modem notices TBR 21 This equipment has been approved [Council Decision 98/482/EC - "TBR 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 94 Slots and openings are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register, or in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

  • Page 95: Laser Compliance Statement

    VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NAR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNADSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING NAR DEKSEL ÅPNESSTIRR IKKE INN I STRÅLEN Lithium battery statement The Aspire 1450 series uses the lithium battery, models SQ-1100 and SQU-202 only. CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.

  • Page 96: Lcd Pixel Statement

    Appendix B Notices ADVARSEL! Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering. Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat og type. Léver det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren. ADVARSEL Eksplosjonsfare ved feilaktig skifte av batteri. Benytt samme batteritype eller en tilsvarende type anbefalt av apparatfabrikanten. Brukte batterier kasseres i henhold til fabrikantens instruksjoner.

  • Page 97: Index

    Index AcerMedia drive ACPI audio adjusting the volume connecting externally troubleshooting battery pack battery-low warning caring for characteristics charging checking charge level installing low conditions maximizing life optimizing removing using the first time BIOS Setup Utility 64–?? entering brightness hotkeys caps lock on indicator care...
  • Page 98 ITW. See warranty keyboard connecting externally embedded numeric keypad hotkeys lock keys troubleshooting Windows keys keypad connecting externally left view memory installing 50– 51, ??– 51 upgrading microphone troubleshooting modem setting location mouse connecting externally Notebook Manager hotkey notice DVD copyright protection num lock on indicator numeric keypad...
  • Page 99 touchpad hotkey using 21– 22 travel international flights local trips connecting utility BIOS Setup 64–?? volume adjusting warranty International Traveler’s Warran- Windows keys...

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