Acer 8100 Series User Manual

Acer travelmate 8100 series user's guide
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TravelMate 8100 Series

User's Guide

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Summary of Contents for Acer 8100 Series

  • Page 1: Travelmate 8100 Series

    TravelMate 8100 Series User’s Guide...
  • Page 2 Serial Number: ___________________________________ Purchase Date: ___________________________________ Place of Purchase: ________________________________ Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Other company's product names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to their respective companies.
  • Page 3: First Things First

    First things first We would like to thank you for making the TravelMate series of notebook computers your choice for your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your TravelMate, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Just for starters... poster helps you get started with setting up your computer.
  • Page 4: Basic Care And Tips For Using Your Computer

    Basic care and tips for using your computer Turning your computer on and off To turn on the computer, simply press and release the power button below the LCD screen beside the launch keys. See “Front view” on page 1 for the location of the power button. To turn the power off, do any of the following: Use the Windows shutdown command •...
  • Page 5: Taking Care Of Your Ac Adapter

    Never place objects on top of the computer to avoid damaging the • computer. Do not slam the computer display when you close it. • Never place the computer on uneven surfaces. • Taking care of your AC adapter Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter: Do not connect the adapter to any other device.
  • Page 6 FCC certification and your warranty. To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and installation outdoors is subject to licensing.For more information about our products, services, and support information, please visit our website: http://global.acer.com/.
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Touchpad basics Ejecting the optical (CD or DVD) drive tray Using a computer security lock Audio Adjusting the volume Using system utilities Acer GridVista Acer eManager Launch Manager Moving around with your Notebook PC Disconnecting from the desktop Moving around...
  • Page 8 Disc to Disc Recovery enable Password Using software Playing DVD movies Power management Acer eRecovery Create backup Restore from backup Create factory default image CD Re-install bundled software without CD Change password Acer disc-to-disc recovery Multilingual operating system installation Restore without a Recovery CD...
  • Page 9 Troubleshooting my computer Frequently-asked questions Troubleshooting tips Error messages Requesting service International Traveler’s Warranty (ITW) Before you call Appendix A Regulation & safety notices...
  • Page 11: A Travelmate Tour

    A TravelMate tour After setting up your computer as illustrated on the Just for Starters... poster, let us show you around your new TravelMate computer. Front view Item Display screen Power button Status indicators Keyboard Palmrest Description Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), displays computer output.
  • Page 12: Closed Front View

    Item Click buttons (Left, center and right) Launch keys Touchpad Closed front view Item Speakers 5-in-1 card reader Microphone Infrared port Description The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons; the center button serves as a 4-way scroll button. Buttons for launching frequently used programs.
  • Page 13 Item Power indicator Battery indicator Speaker/Line- Out/Headphone jack Line-in/Mic-in jack Bluetooth communication button/ indicator Wireless communication button/indicator Latch Description Lights when the computer is on. Lights when the battery is being charged. Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g., speakers, headphones). Accepts audio line-in devices (e.g., audio CD player, stereo walkman).
  • Page 14: Left View

    Left view Item External display port Ventilation Slots Network LAN Jack RJ-11 Modem Jack One USB 2.0 port IEEE 1394 port Smart Card Slot PC Card slot PC Card slot eject button Description Connects to a display device (e.g., external monitor, LCD projector).
  • Page 15: Right View

    Right view Item Three USB 2.0 ports Optical drive LED indicator Optical drive eject button Emergency eject hole Power jack Security keylock Note: The positions of the AcerMedia indicator, eject button and emergency eject hole may differ depending on the optical drive module installed.
  • Page 16: Rear View

    Rear view Item DVI-D port S-video port 124-pin ezDock connector Description Supports digital video connections Connects to a television or display device with S-video input. Connects to the Acer ezDock.
  • Page 17: Bottom View

    Bottom view Item Battery lock latches AcerMedia bay release latch Cooling fan AcerMedia bay Wireless LAN bay Hard disk bay Battery bay Memory compartment Description Lock the battery in place. Unlatches the AcerMedia drive for removal of drive (optional). Helps keep the computer cool. Note: Do not cover or obstruct the opening of the fan.
  • Page 18: Specifications

    Specifications Operating System Microsoft Windows ® ® • Microprocessor Intel Pentium M Processor with Intel ® ® • technology at 1.6 ~ 2.13 GHz Memory 256/512 MB of DDR2 533 SDRAM standard, upgradeable to 2 GB • with dual soDIMM modules Data storage One 60/80 (4200rpm), or 80/100 GB PATA hard disk (5400rpm) •...
  • Page 19 Sound Blaster Pro and MS-Sound compatible • Dual speakers and one internal microphone • Keyboard and pointing device Acer FineTouch™ keyboard with 5-degree curve, 88/89-key • Windows keyboard with 12 function and embedded numeric keypad 4 easy-launch buttons (1 user-programmable) •...
  • Page 20 Additional 80GB (4200/5400rpm) or 100GB (5400rpm) 2nd hard • disk drive module External USB floppy drive • Acer ezDock • Note: The specifications listed above are for reference only. The exact configuration of your PC depends on the model purchased.
  • Page 21: Indicators

    Indicators The computer has three easy-to-read status indicators below the display screen, and four located on the front of the computer. The Power, Battery, and Wireless communication status indicators are visible even when the LCD display is closed. Icon Function Caps Lock Num Lock Power indicator...
  • Page 22: 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. Lock keys The keyboard has three lock functions which you can toggle on and off using dedicated keys. Lock key Description Caps When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters entered are in...
  • Page 23: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop PC’s numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the right-hand side of the keycaps. Desired action Num Lock on Type numbers Use embedded keypad in the same was as the numeric keypad on a standard keyboard.
  • Page 24: Windows Keys

    Windows keys The keyboard also has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key perform shortcut functions. Below are a few examples: <Shift>+ Application Opens a context menu (same as a right-click). +<Tab>...
  • Page 25: Hot Keys

    Acer Empowering Key “ .” See “Acer eManager” on page 25. Launches the Acer ePower-Management in the Acer eManager set by the Acer Empowering Key “ .” See “Acer eManager” on page 25 Puts the computer in Sleep mode.
  • Page 26 Icon Function Fn+F7 Touchpad toggle Fn+F8 Speaker toggle Fn+↑ Volume Fn+↓ Volume down Fn+ → Brightness Fn+ ← Brightness down Description Turns the internal touchpad on and off. Turns the speakers on and off. Increases the speaker volume. Decreases the speaker volume. Increases the screen brightness.
  • Page 27: The Euro Symbol

    The Euro symbol If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International, 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 28 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 29: Launch Keys

    “ Press the empowering key “Acer eManager” on page 25. The mail and Web browser are default for Email and Internet programs, but can be reset by users. To set the Web browser, mail and programmable keys, run the Acer Launch Manager.
  • Page 30: 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. Touchpad basics The following items teach you how to use the touchpad: Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor.
  • Page 31 Left button Right Function button (4) Execute Click twice quickly. Select Click once. Drag Click and hold, then use finger to drag the cursor on touchpad. Access Click once. context menu Scroll Note: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean.
  • Page 32: Ejecting The Optical (Cd Or Dvd) Drive Tray

    Ejecting the optical (CD or DVD) drive tray To eject the optical drive tray when the computer is turned on, press the drive eject button. When the power is off, you can eject the drive tray using the emergency eject hole. Insert a straightened paperclip into the hole to perform an eject.
  • Page 33: Audio

    Audio The computer comes with 16-bit high-fidelity AC'97 stereo audio, and dual stereo speakers. Adjusting the volume Adjusting the volume on the computer is easy. See “Hot keys” on page 15 for more information on adjusting the speaker volume.
  • Page 34: Using System Utilities

    To access this function, please go to Start - All Programs and click on Acer GridVista. You may choose any one of the four display settings indicated below: Double (Vertical), Triple (Major at left), Triple (Major at right), or Quad...
  • Page 35: Acer Emanager

    Acer eManager Acer eManager is an innovative software package designed for frequently used functions. Press the Acer Empowering Key the Acer eManager user interface appears. It has four main features — Acer eSetting, Acer ePresentation, Acer ePowerManagement and Acer eRecovery.
  • Page 36: Launch Manager

    Launch Manager Launch Manager allows you to set the two launch keys located above the keyboard. See “Launch keys” on page 19 for the location of the launch keys. You can access the Launch Manager by clicking on Start, All Programs, and then Launch Manager to start the application.
  • Page 37: Moving Around With Your Notebook Pc

    Moving around with your Notebook 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: Save your work in progress. Remove any media, floppy discs or compact discs, from the drive(s).
  • Page 38: What To Take To Short Meetings

    you can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing <Fn>+<F4>. Then close and latch the display. When you are ready to use the computer again, unlatch and open the display; then press and release the power button. Note: If the Sleep indicator is off, the computer has entered Hibernation mode and turned off.
  • Page 39: What To Take With You

    Pack the computer in a protective case that can prevent the • computer from sliding around and cushion it if it should fall. Caution: Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen. What to take with you Unless you already have some items at home, take the following items with you:...
  • Page 40: Setting Up A Home Office

    Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, you may want to purchase a second AC adaptor for use at home. With a second AC adaptor, you can avoid carrying the extra weight to and from home. If you use your computer at home for significant periods of time, you might also want to add an external keyboard, monitor, or mouse.
  • Page 41: Traveling Internationally With The Computer

    Traveling internationally with the computer When you are moving from country to country. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you: AC adaptor •...
  • Page 42: 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 and passwords. Using a computer security lock A security keylock notch, located on the rear of the computer, lets you connect a Kensington-compatible computer security lock.
  • Page 43: Registering Your Smart Card

    For more details consult your Smart Card documentation. Registering your Smart Card Important! Your Acer notebook is equipped with a Smart Card security feature that protects the computer from unauthorized access. If you enable this feature, please make sure that your warranty card is completed and sent back to Acer.
  • Page 44 operations: PlatinumSecure Options, Smart Card Manager, and Change Password. PlatinumSecure Options Click on the PlatinumSecure Options button to open the Smart Card Options window. It provides great flexibility to meet the various privacy protection needs of many different users. Disable Smart Card Authentication •...
  • Page 45 PlatinumSecure screensaver comes up and access to the system is locked. When Never lock the system after bootup is selected, there is no protection for the notebook after boot up, and Password Option is disabled. Password Option • When Always enter password when the Smart Card is in use (default) is selected, the password is required whenever you need to regain access to the system while the Smart Card is inserted.
  • Page 46: Running Platinumkey

    of files. Running PlatinumKey PlatinumKey provides one-click logon to all password-required websites. With its unique Smart Card caching technology, you can greatly extend the limited card memory size to unlimited use by storing your private data in an encrypted file either on the Smart Card, or on the 360 Degree Web secure website server.
  • Page 47: Using Passwords

    website server for backup purposes in case the card is lost/stolen. If you choose No, you will only be able to save My Info, Credit Cards and 5 Websites on your Smart Card. Log in to a website where you are already registered. PlatinumKey automatically stores your login data and asks for your confirmation to automatically log you in the next time you access the site.
  • Page 48: Entering Passwords

    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 • press <F2> to enter the BIOS Utility at boot-up. Type the Supervisor Password and press <Enter> to access the BIOS •...
  • Page 49: Expanding Through Options

    Expanding through options Your Notebook PC offers you a complete mobile computing experience. Connectivity options Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, see your online guide for more details.
  • Page 50: Built-In Network Feature

    Built-in network feature The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based network. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the network jack on the rear of the computer to a network jack or hub on your network.
  • Page 51: Universal Serial Bus

    Universal Serial Bus The USB 2.0 port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect USB peripherals without taking up precious system resources. IEEE 1394 port The computer's IEEE 1394 port allows you to connect to an IEEE 1394- compatible device like a video camera or digital camera.
  • Page 52: Pc Card Slot

    PC Card slot The Type II PC Card slot of the computer accepts PC Cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer. These cards should have a PC Card logo on them. PC Cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs.
  • Page 53: Installing Memory

    Replace the memory cover and secure it with the screw. Reinstall the battery pack, and reconnect the AC adaptor. Turn on the computer. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size. Please consult a qualified technician or contact your local Acer dealer.
  • Page 54: Bios Utility

    BIOS Utility The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS. Your computer is already properly configured and optimised, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it. To activate the BIOS Utility, press <F2>...
  • Page 55: Using Software

    Using software Playing DVD movies When the DVD drive module is installed in the optical drive bay, you can play DVD movies on your computer. Eject the DVD tray and insert a DVD movie disc; then close the DVD tray. Important! When you launch the DVD player for the first time, the programme asks you to enter the region code.
  • Page 56: Power Management

    Power management This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disc, peripherals connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video memory.
  • Page 57: Acer Erecovery

    Acer eRecovery Acer eRecovery is a tool to quickly backup and restore the system. Users can create and save backup of the current system configuration to hard drive, CD, or DVD. Acer eRecovery consists of the following functions: Create backup...
  • Page 58: Restore From Backup

    Boot to Windows XP. Press <Alt>+<F10> to open the Acer eRecovery utility. Enter the password to proceed. The default password is six zeros. In the Acer eRecovery window, select Recovery actions and click Next. Select the desired restore action and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the restore process.
  • Page 59: Re-Install Bundled Software Without Cd

    Next. Select the desired driver/application and follow the instructions on screen to re-install. At first launch, Acer eRecovery prepares all the needed software and may take few seconds to bring up the software content window. Change password Acer eRecovery and Acer disc-to-disc recovery are protected by a password that can be changed by the user.
  • Page 60: Acer Disc-To-Disc Recovery

    Before performing a restore operation, please check the BIOS settings. Check to see if Acer disc-to-disc recovery is enabled or not. Make sure the [D2D Recovery] setting in [Main] is [Enabled]. Exit the BIOS Setup Utility and save changes. The system will reboot.
  • Page 61 Restart the system. While the Acer logo is showing, press <Alt>+<F10> at the same time to enter the recovery process. The message "The system has password protection. Please enter 000000:" is displayed. Enter six zeros and continue. The Acer Recovery main page appears.
  • Page 63: Troubleshooting My Computer

    Troubleshooting my computer...
  • Page 64 Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorised service center for assistance. Key link: http://global.acer.com/...
  • Page 65: Frequently-Asked Questions

    Frequently-asked questions The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy answers and solutions are provided for each one. I pressed the power button and opened the display, but the computer does not start or boot-up. Look at the power indicator: If it is not lit, no power is being supplied to the computer.
  • Page 66 Image is not full-screen. Make sure the resolution is set to 1680 x 1050. This is the native resolution of your display. If you set the resolution lower than this, the screen expands to fill the computer display. Right-click on your Windows desktop and select Properties to bring up the Display Properties dialog box.
  • Page 67 The keyboard does not respond. Try attaching an external keyboard to a USB 2.0 port on the computer. If it works, contact your dealer or an authorised service center as the internal keyboard cable may be loose. The infrared port does not work. Check the following: Make sure that the infrared ports of the two devices are facing •...
  • Page 68: Troubleshooting Tips

    Please note, on first booting your notebook, that you can skip the Internet Connection setup, as it is not necessary to affect the installation of your overall Operating System. After the Operating System is setup, you can proceed with the Internet Connection setup.
  • Page 69: Requesting Service

    Error Messages Corrective Action Keyboard Error or No Contact your dealer or an authorised service Keyboard Connected center. Keyboard Interface Contact your dealer or an authorised service Error center. Memory Size Mismatch Press <F2> (during POST) to enter the BIOS Utility; then press Exit in the BIOS Utility to reboot.
  • Page 70: Before You Call

    Troubleshooting my computer If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorised ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide. Please consult http://global.acer.com. Before you call Please have the following information available when you call Acer for online service, and please be at your computer when you call.
  • Page 71: Regulation & Safety Notices

    Appendix A Regulation & safety notices...
  • Page 72 This appendix lists the general notices for your computer.
  • Page 73: Energy Star Guidelines Compliance

    Energy Star Guidelines Compliance As an Energy Star partner, Acer Inc. has determined that this product meets the Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency. FCC notice This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.
  • Page 74: Declaration Of Conformity For Eu Countries

    Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme a la norme NMB- 003 du Canada. Declaration of Conformity for EU countries Hereby, Acer, declares that this Notebook PC series is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. (Please visit http://global.acer.com/products/ notebook/reg-nb/index.htm for complete documents.)
  • Page 75 equipment. Upon request, you must provide this information to your telephone company. If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may discontinue your service temporarily. If possible, they will notify you in advance. But, if advance notice is not practical, you will be notified as soon as possible.
  • Page 76: Notice For Australia

    List of Applicable Countries EU member states as of May 2004 are: Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Finland, Sweden, United Kingdom Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Cyprus and Malta. Usage allowed in the countries of European Union, as well as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
  • Page 77 The equipment shall go on-hook for a period of not less than 30 seconds between the end of one attempt and the beginning of the next call attempt. Some parameters required for compliance with Telecom's Telepermit requirements are dependent on the equipment (PC) associated with this device.
  • Page 78: Important Safety Instructions

    Some parameters required for compliance with Telecom's Telepermit requirements are dependent on the equipment (PC) associated with this device. The associated equipment shall be set to operate within the following limits for compliance with Telecom's specifications, the associated equipment shall be set to ensure that calls are answered between 3 and 30 seconds of receipt of ringing.
  • Page 79 parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product. 10 Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks.
  • Page 80: Laser Compliance Statement

    Appendix A Regulation & safety notices Laser compliance statement The CD or DVD drive used with this computer is a laser product. The CD or DVD drive's classification label (shown below) is located on the drive. CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN.
  • Page 81: Radio Device Regulatory Notice

    and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorised by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. Apparatus Claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,631,603, 4,577,216, 4,819,098, 4,907,093, and 6,516,132 licensed for limited viewing uses only. Radio Device Regulatory Notice Note: Below regulatory information is for models with wireless LAN ®...
  • Page 82: The Fcc Rf Safety Requirement

    List of Applicable Countries EU member states as of May 2004 are: Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Finland, Sweden, United Kingdom Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Cyprus and Malta. Usage allowed in the countries of European Union, as well as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
  • Page 83 Canada - Low power license-exempt radio communication devices (RSS-210) Common information Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
  • Page 84 Safety Code 6, obtainable from Health Canada’s Web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca/rpb. Note: Acer Wireless Mini PCI Adapter implements a transmission diversity function. The function does not emit radio frequencies simultaneously from both antennas. One of the antennas is selected automatically or manually (by...
  • Page 85 Travelmate 8100 SKU Number: TravelMate 810xxx (“x” = 0~9, a ~ z, or A ~ Z) Name of Responsible Party: Acer America Corporation Address of Responsible Party: 2641 Orchard Parkway, San Jose CA 95134, U. S. A. Contact Person: Mr. Young Kim Phone No.:...
  • Page 86 --------------------------- Easy Lai/ Director Qualification Center Product Assurance, Acer Inc. Appendix A Regulation & safety notices Acer Incorporated 8F, 88, Sec. 1, Hsin Tai Wu Rd., Hsichih Taipei Hsien 221, Taiwan, R.O.C.

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