Acer TravelMate 4050 User Manual

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TravelMate 4050 Series
User's Guide

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Summary of Contents for Acer TravelMate 4050

  • Page 1 TravelMate 4050 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

    Note: Viewing the file requires Adobe Acrobat Reader installed. For instructions on how to use Adobe Acrobat Reader, access the Help and Support menu. For more information about our products, services, and support information, please visit our Web site: http://www.acer.com.
  • 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 the power button on the left of the launch keys found above your TravelMate’s standard keyboard. See “Front open view” on page 3 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

    Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture. • Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer. • Do not subject the computer to heavy shock and vibration. • Do not expose the computer to dust and dirt. •...
  • Page 6: Cleaning And Servicing

    Cleaning and servicing When cleaning the computer, follow these steps: Power off the computer and remove the battery pack. • Disconnect the AC adapter. • Use a soft cloth moistened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol • cleaners. To clean the display screen, use an LCD cleaning kit.
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Taking the computer home Traveling with the computer Traveling internationally with the computer Securing your computer Using a computer security lock Using passwords 2 Customizing my computer Expanding through options Connectivity options Upgrade options Using system utilities Acer eManager Launch Manager...
  • Page 8 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 Setup password and exit 3 Troubleshooting my computer Frequently-asked questions...
  • Page 9: Getting To Know Your Travelmate

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate...
  • Page 10 Your TravelMate computer combines high- performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.
  • Page 11: A Travelmate Tour

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

    Item Launch keys Keyboard Palmrest Click buttons (left and right) Touchpad Status indicators Front view Item Optical drive Optical drive eject button 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description Two special keys for frequently used programs. See “Launch Keys” on page 21 for more details.
  • Page 13 Item Description Emergency eject Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer hole is turned off. See page 56 for more details. Latch Latch for opening and closing the computer. Power indicator Lights when the computer is on. Battery indicator Lights when the battery is being charged.
  • Page 14: Left View

    Left view Item One USB 2.0 port Infrared port PC Card slot PC Card eject button Microphone/line-in jack Headphone/ Speaker/ Line- out jack Wireless / Bluetooth Communication switch 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description Connects to Universal Serial Bus devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera).
  • Page 15: Right View

    Item Stereo speaker Right view Item Stereo speaker DC-in jack Ventilation Slot Description Outputs sound. Description Outputs sound. Houses the computer's hard disk. Connects the AC adapter. Enables the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use.
  • Page 16: Rear View

    Rear view Item Security keylock Parallel port External display port Two USB 2.0 ports Modem port Ethernet port 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. Connects to a parallel device (e.g., parallel printer). Connects to a display device (e.g., external monitor, LCD projector) and displays up to 16.7 million colors and up to 1600x1200 at...
  • Page 17 Item S-video (manufacturing option) IEEE 1394 port (manufacturing option) Description Connects to a television or display device with S-video input. Connects to IEEE 1394 devices.
  • Page 18: Bottom View

    Bottom view Item Optical drive Memory compartment Hard disk bay Battery compartment release latch Battery bay 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description Internal optical drive; accepts CDs or DVDs depending on the optical drive type. Houses the computer's main memory. Houses the computer's hard disk (secured by a screw).
  • Page 19: Features

    Features Below is a brief summary of the computer’s many features: Performance Intel® Pentium® M Processor at 1.5 ~2.1 GHz or higher • Intel® Celeron® M Processor at 1.2 ~1.5 GHz or higher • (manufacturing option) Intel 855GME chipset • Memory upgradeable up to 2 GB with 2 slots •...
  • Page 20 Connectivity High-speed fax/data modem port • Ethernet/Fast Ethernet port • Fast infrared wireless communication • Three USB 2.0 ports (two in rear and one on left) • IEEE 1394 port • 802.11b/g Wireless LAN (manufacturing optional) • Expansion One type II CardBus PC Card slot •...
  • Page 21: Indicators

    Indicators The computer has six easy-to-read status indicators below the display screen, and three on the front of the computer. The Power and Battery status indicators are visible even when the display is closed. Icon Function Scroll Lock Description Lights when Hard Disk Drive is activated. Lights when Optical Disk Drive is activated.
  • Page 22 Icon Function Caps Lock Pad Lock Num Lock Power indicator Battery indicator Wireless / ® Bluetooth communications 1. Charging: Flashing 1 sec. and off 3 sec. 2. Low capacity (about 10%): Flashing 0.25 sec. and off 0.25 sec. 3. Critically low capacity (about 3%): Flashing 0.1 sec. and off 0.1 sec.
  • Page 23: 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 four lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in...
  • Page 24: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the right-hand- side of the keycaps. Desired access Num lock on Number keys on Type numbers in a normal embedded keypad manner.
  • Page 25: Windows Keys

    Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform 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 26: Hot Keys

    Hot keys The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS Utility. To activate hot keys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hot key combination. Hot key Icon Function...
  • Page 27 Hot key Icon Function Fn-↑ Brightness up Fn-↓ Brightness down 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 28 To verify the keyboard type in Windows XP, follow the steps below: Click on Start, Control Panel. Double-click on Regional and Language Options. Click on the Language tab and click on Details. Verify that the keyboard layout used for "En English (United States)"...
  • Page 29: Launch Keys

    Located above the keyboard are the user programmable buttons e and P. Press the e “Acer Empowering Key” to run the Acer eManager. Please see ““Acer eManager” on page 44. To define the function of P button, see “Launch Manager” on page 44...
  • 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 Function Left button Execute Click twice quickly. Select Click once. Drag Click and hold, then use finger to drag the cursor on the touchpad. Access context menu Note: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements.
  • Page 32: Storage

    Storage This computer supplies you with the following media storage: High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk • Internal 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 Your computer comes equipped with an optical drive which may be one of the following:...
  • Page 33: Using Software

    Using software Playing DVD movies When the DVD-ROM 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 program asks you to input the region code.
  • Page 34: Audio

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate 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 as easy as pressing some buttons. See “Hot keys” on page 18 for more informations on adjusting the speaker volume.
  • Page 35: Moving Around With Your Travelmate

    Moving around with your TravelMate 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, diskette or compact disc, from the drive(s).
  • Page 36: Taking The Computer Home

    you can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing Fn-Esc. 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 37: What To Bring With You

    Check if you have removed all media, diskettes and compact discs, • from the drive(s). Failure to remove the media can damage the drive head. 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.
  • Page 38: Traveling With The Computer

    Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, you may want to purchase a second AC adapter for use at home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid transporting the extra weight to and from home.
  • Page 39: 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 adapter •...
  • Page 40: 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 41: Entering Passwords

    Password on Boot secures your computer against unauthorized • use. Combine the use of this password with password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from hibernation for maximum security. Important! Do not forget your Supervisor! If you forget your password, please get in touch with your dealer or an authorized service center.
  • Page 42 1 Getting to know your TravelMate...
  • Page 43: Customizing My Computer

    2 Customizing my computer...
  • Page 44 After learning the basics of your TravelMate computer, let’s get acquainted with the advanced features of your computer. In this chapter, you will learn how to add options, upgrade components for better performance, and customize your computer.
  • Page 45: Expanding Through Options

    Expanding through options Your TravelMate 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 46: Fast Infrared

    2 Customizing my computer Built-in network feature The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based (10/100 Mbps) 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 47: Universal Serial Bus

    Universal Serial Bus The Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect USB peripherals without taking up precious system resources. Your computer has three ports available, one on left and two in rear.
  • Page 48: Ieee 1394 Port

    IEEE 1394 port The computer's IEEE 1394 port allows you to connect to an IEEE 1394 supported devices like a video camera or digital camera. See your video or digital camera's documentation for details. PC Card slot The type II CardBus PC Card slot found on the left side of the computer accepts credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer.
  • Page 49 Inserting a PC Card Insert the card into the slot and make the proper connections (e.g., network cable), if necessary. See your card manual for details. Ejecting a PC Card Before ejecting a PC Card: Exit the application using the card. Left-click on the PC Card icon on the taskbar and stop the card operation.
  • Page 50: Upgrade Options

    Upgrade options Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.
  • Page 51 Installing memory Follow these steps to install memory: Turn off the computer, unplug the AC adapter (if connected) and remove the battery pack. Then turn the computer over to access its base. Remove the screws from the memory cover (a); then lift up and remove the memory cover (b).
  • Page 52: Using System Utilities

    Using system utilities Acer eManager Acer eManager is an innovative sofware designed for frequently used functions. At the press of Acer Empowering Key, the Acer eManager user interface appears, featuring four main settings -- Acer eSetting, Acer ePresentation, Acer ePowerManagement and Acer eRecovery(manufacturing option).
  • Page 53: Bios Utility

    You can access the Launch Manager by clicking on Start, All Programs, and then Launch Manager to start the application. BIOS Utility The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility.
  • Page 54: Acer Erecovery

    Acer eRecovery Note: This feature is only available on certain models. Acer eRecovery is a tool to quickly backup and restore the system. User can create and save backup of the current system configuration to hard drive, CD, or DVD.
  • Page 55: Restore From Backup

    CD, or DVD. Boot to Windows XP. Press <Alt> + <F10> to open the Acer eRecovery utility. Enter the password to proceed. The default password is six 0s. In the Acer eRecovery window, select “Recovery actions” and click “Next”.
  • Page 56: Re-Install Bundled Software Without Cd

    Change password Acer eRecovery is protected by a password that can be changed by the user. The password is used by both Acer eRecovery and Acer disc-to- disc Recovery. Follow the steps below to change the password in Acer eRecovery.
  • Page 57: Acer Disc To Disc Recovery

    Check to see if " Acer disc-to-disc Recovery not. Make sure the [Acer D2D Recovery] setting in [Main] is [Enabled]. Exit the BIOS Setup Utility and save changes. The system will reboot. Note: To activate BIOS Setup Utility, press <F2> during POST.
  • Page 58: Setup Password And Exit

    Setup password and exit Press "F3" to setup password or press "F5" to exit the system recovery process when "Acer Self-Configuration Preload" window appears. If "F3" is pressed, the next screen shows "Please enter new password:" enter one to eight alphanumeric characters. You will be asked to reenter your password for confirmation before continuing.
  • Page 59: Troubleshooting My Computer

    3 Troubleshooting my computer...
  • Page 60 This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
  • Page 61: 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 applied to the computer.
  • Page 62 Image is not full-screen. The computer display has a native resolution of 1024 x 768 (XGA) for the 14.1”/15.0”. 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 63 The keyboard does not respond. Try attaching an external keyboard to the USB 2.0 connector on the rear or left of the computer. If it works, contact your dealer or an authorized service center as the internal keyboard cable may be loose. The infrared port does not work.
  • Page 64: Troubleshooting Tips

    3 Troubleshooting my computer Troubleshooting tips This notebook computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems. If the system reports an error message or an error symptom occurs, see “Error messages” on page 57. If the problem cannot be resolved, contact your dealer.
  • Page 65: Error Messages

    Error messages If you receive an error message, note the message and take the corrective action. The following table lists the error messages in alphabetical order together with the recommended course of action. Error Messages Corrective Action CMOS Battery Bad Contact your dealer or an authorized service center.
  • Page 66: 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 67: Before You Call

    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. With your support, we can reduce the amount of time a call takes and help solve your problems efficiently.
  • Page 68 3 Troubleshooting my computer...
  • Page 69: Appendix A Specifications

    Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 70 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
  • Page 71 Microprocessor Intel® Pentium® M Processor at 1.5 ~2.1 GHz or higher or Intel® • Celeron® M Processor at 1.2 ~1.5 GHz or higher Intel® Celeron® M Processor at 1.2 ~1.5 GHz or higher • (manufacturing option) Memory Main memory expandable up to 2 GB •...
  • Page 72: Weight And Dimensions

    I/O ports One type II CardBus PC Card slot • One RJ-45 jack (Ethernet 10/100) • One RJ-11 phone jack (V.92) • One DC-in jack for AC adapter • • One parallel port One VGA port for external monitor • One speaker/headphone-out jack (3.5mm mini jack) •...
  • Page 73 System ACPI support • DMI 2.0-compliant • Microsoft Windows operating system • Power Battery pack • 63 Wh Li-ion battery pack • • 2.5-hour rapid charge/3.5-hour charge-in-use AC adapter • 65-Watt • Auto sensing 90~264Vac, 47~63Hz • Options 128 MB/256 MB/512 MB/1GB memory upgrade modules •...
  • Page 74 Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 75: Appendix B Notices

    Appendix B Notices...
  • Page 76 This appendix lists the general notices of your computer.
  • Page 77: 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 78: 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 TravelMate series is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. (Please visit www.acer.com/about/certificates/nb for complete documents.)
  • Page 79: Modem Notices

    Modem notices Notice for USA This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. Located on the bottom side of the modem is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC Registration Number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this equipment. Upon request, you must provide this information to your telephone company.
  • Page 80: Notice For Australia

    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. This device must be used in strict accordance with the regulations and constraints in the country of use.
  • Page 81 Some parameters required for compliance with Telecom's Telepermit requirements are dependent on the equipment (PC) associated with this device. In order to operate within the limits for compliance with Telecom's specifications, the associated equipment shall be set to ensure that automatic calls to different numbers are spaced such that there is not less than 5 seconds between the end of one call attempt and the beginning of another.
  • Page 82: Important Safety Instructions

    Telecom's specifications, the associated equipment shall be set to ensure that calls are answered between 3 and 30 seconds of receipt of ringing. This equipment shall not be set up to make automatic calls to Telecom's 111 Emergency Service. Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully.
  • Page 83 11 Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions: When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed. If liquid has been spilled into the product. If the product has been exposed to rain or water. If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed.
  • Page 84: Laser Compliance Statement

    Appendix B 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. AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.
  • Page 85: Radio Device Regulatory Notice

    and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized 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 and/or Bluetooth®...
  • Page 86: 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 87 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 88 Safety Code 6, obtainable from Health Canada’s Web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca/rpb. Note: Acer Wireless Mini PCI Adapter implements transmission diversity function. The function does not emit radio frequencies simultaneously from both antennas. One of the antennas is selected automatically or manually (by users) to have good quality of radiocommunication.
  • Page 89 Notebook PC Trade Name: Acer Model Number: TravelMate 4050, CL51 SKU Number: TravelMate 405xxxx (“x” = 0~9, a ~ z, A ~ Z, or blank) Is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the following EC directives.
  • Page 90 Appendix B Notices...
  • Page 91: Index

    Index AC adapter caring for AcerMedia drive audio adjusting the volume troubleshooting battery pack caring for BIOS utility brightness hotkeys caps lock on indicator care AC adapter battery pack computer CD-ROM ejecting ejecting manually troubleshooting cleaning computer computer bringing to meetings caring for cleaning disconnecting...
  • Page 92 messages error modem network Notebook Manager hotkey notice DVD copyright protection num lock on indicator numeric keypad num lock online services options memory upgrade password types PC Card ejecting inserting ports POST (power-on self-test) printer troubleshooting problems CD-ROM display keyboard printer startup troubleshooting...

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