Acer A515-56 User Manual
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Acer A515-56 User Manual

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USER'S MANUAL

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Summary of Contents for Acer A515-56

  • Page 1 Aspire 5 USER’S MANUAL...
  • Page 2 Operating System version. Images provided herein are for reference only and may contain information or features that do not apply to your computer. Acer Group shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained in this manual.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Cleaning and servicing........ 8 Guidelines for safe battery usage ....9 Battery pack Internal battery........11 Battery characteristics ......54 Your Acer notebook tour Charging the battery ......... 54 Screen view ......... 12 Optimizing battery life ....... 55 Keyboard view ........13 Checking the battery level......
  • Page 4 4 - Table of contents Internet and online security Network connections......... 80 Surf the Net!..........81 First steps on the net ......78 Internet security software......81 Protecting your computer......78 Choose an Internet Service Provider ..78...
  • Page 5 • Where to find the power button, ports and connectors • Tips and tricks for using the touchpad and keyboard • How to create recovery backups • Guidelines for connecting to a network and using Bluetooth • Information on using Acer’s bundled software...

  • Page 6: First Things First

    6 - First things first I R S T T H I N G S F I R S T We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides...

  • Page 7: Taking Care Of Your Computer

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

  • Page 8: Taking Care Of Your Ac Adapter

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

  • Page 9: Guidelines For Safe Battery Usage

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

  • Page 11: Internal Battery

    Please refer to www.acer.com for battery shipping documents. Internal battery • Do not attempt to replace a built-in rechargeable battery, battery replacement must be done by an Acer- authorized repair facility. • Recharge the battery by following the instruction included in the product documentation.

  • Page 12: Your Acer Notebook Tour

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

  • Page 13: Keyboard View

    Your Acer notebook tour - 13 Keyboard view Icon Item Description For entering data into your computer. Keyboard See "Using the keyboard" on page Fingerprint Fingerprint reader for Windows Hello reader (Optional) and security. Touch-sensitive pointing device. The touchpad and selection buttons ...

  • Page 14: Left View

    14 - Your Acer notebook tour Left view Icon Item Description DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter. Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/ Ethernet (RJ-45) 1000-based network. port Pull the lip down to open the port fully. Supports high-definition digital video HDMI port connections.

  • Page 15: Right View

    Your Acer notebook tour - 15 Right view 1 2 3 Icon Item Description Indicates the computer’s power Power indicator status. Indicates the computer’s battery status. Charging: The light shows amber Battery indicator when the battery is charging. Fully charged: The light shows blue when in AC mode.

  • Page 16: Base View

    16 - Your Acer notebook tour Base view Icon Item Description Allows the computer to stay cool. Ventilation and Do not cover or obstruct the cooling fan openings. Speakers Deliver stereo audio output. Simulates removing and reinstalling Battery reset the battery.

  • Page 17: Using The Keyboard

    Using the keyboard - 17 S I N G T H E K E Y B O A R D The keyboard has full-sized keys, a numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, special keys and hotkeys. Lock keys The keyboard has lock keys which you can use to turn keyboard functions on and off.
  • Page 18 18 - Using the keyboard Icon Function Description Switches display output between the Display toggle display screen, external monitor (if connected) and both. Turns the display screen backlight off to Display off save power. Press any key to return. Touchpad toggle Turns the built-in touchpad on and off. Turns the keyboard backlight on and off....

  • Page 19: Hotkeys

    Switches fan mode between Silent, Normal and Performance. For more information on how to achieve Fn + F optimal cooling efficiency in different scenarios, please launch Acer Quick Access application. Jump to the next media file. Fn + Return to the previous media file.

  • Page 20: 20 - Using The Precision Touchpad

    20 - Using the Precision Touchpad S I N G T H E R E C I S I O N O U C H P A D The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement.
  • Page 21 Using the Precision Touchpad - 21 Three-finger press Lightly tap the touchpad with three fingers to open the Search Windows. Three-finger swipe Swipe across the touchpad with three fingers. • Swipe up to open Task View. Move the cursor over a window and tap the touchpad to select that window, or swipe downwards to exit Task View.

  • Page 22: Changing Touchpad Settings

    22 - Using the Precision Touchpad Changing touchpad settings To change the touchpad settings to suit your personal requirements, please do the following. 1. In the icon tray in the lower right-hand corner of the screen, select the Notifications icon to open the Notifications pane. 2.

  • Page 23: Recovery

    This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Acer provides Acer Care Center, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, backup files/data or create a factory default backup. If you cannot access Acer Care Center, click Settings in the Start menu, select Update &...
  • Page 24 24 - Recovery 3. Plug in the USB drive (or a portable external hard drive) and click + to add a drive. Select the USB drive from the drop-down list. 4. Click More options to select back-up options which best fit your needs, such as schedule the backup interval, how long you want to keep those backups (default is Forever), which folders to be backed up or be excluded.

  • Page 25: Backing Up Your Wireless And Lan Drivers

    Recovery - 25 5. Follow the process until it completes. 6. Unplug the USB drive (or a portable external hard drive) and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on the backup, such as 'File History Recovery Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember.

  • Page 26: Creating A Factory Default Backup

    26 - Recovery Creating a factory default backup Recovery Management allows you to quickly and easily back up your operating system, installed apps and data. 1. From Start, select Care Center then Recovery Management. 2. Select the Backup tab and click Get started for Create backup to open the Backup window.
  • Page 27 Recovery - 27 4. Click Security and Maintenance in the bottom left of the page and click Recovery.
  • Page 28 28 - Recovery 5. Select Create a recovery drive to open the Recovery Drive window. 6. Make sure Back up system files to the recovery drive is selected and click Next.
  • Page 29 Recovery - 29 7. Plug in the USB drive and wait for the PC to detect the USB drive then click Next. 8. Everything on the drive will be deleted. Click Create to continue. 9. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 10.Follow the process until it completes.

  • Page 30: Restoring Your Computer

    30 - Recovery Important Write a unique, descriptive label on the backup, such as 'Windows Recovery Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember. Note Since the recovery backup requires at least 8 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 16 GB or larger.
  • Page 31 Recovery - 31 3. Click Get started to Choose an option. Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your operating system without removing your personal files. Click Next to continue. Important If you have apps installed on your PC, they will be removed. If you'd like not to restore apps and setting that came with your PC, go to Change settings and turn off the option to not restore preinstalled apps that came with this PC before proceeding the restore progress.

  • Page 32: Reset This Pc And Remove Everything

    32 - Recovery 4. Resetting the PC will reinstall Windows, change settings back to their factory defaults and remove all preinstalled apps and programs without removing your personal files. Click Reset to continue. This will take a while and your PC will restart. 5.
  • Page 33 Recovery - 33 Recovery 2. Select the Restore tab and click Get Started to open the window.
  • Page 34 34 - Recovery 3. Click Get started to Choose an option. Select Remove everything to reset your PC back to its factory default. 4. Click Change settings to choose restore settings (Data erasure and Data drives) which best fit your needs. Then click Confirm to continue.
  • Page 35 Recovery - 35 Make sure all settings are properly made, c lick Next to continue. Warning Turn on "Data erasure" will remove all of your personal files and accounts, along with pre-existing drivers that may affect your Windows installation. 6. Click Reset to continue. 7.

  • Page 36: 36 - Using A Bluetooth Connection

    36 - Using a Bluetooth connection S I N G A L U E T O O T H C O N N E C T I O N Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly over short distances between many different types of devices.
  • Page 37 Using a Bluetooth connection - 37 4. Select the device you wish to pair from the list of discovered devices. 5. After pairing, if there is a code displaying on the screen, enter that code on the device to proceed the connection. Note Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require both devices to enter a PIN.

  • Page 38: Connecting To The Internet

    Acer notebook computers feature a Flight mode hotkey that turns the network connection on or off. You can use the network management options to turn your wireless network on/off or control what is shared over the network.
  • Page 39 Connecting to the Internet - 39 To connect to a wireless network, please follow the steps below. 1. Ensure you have a wireless router/access point and current internet connection through the ISP of your choice. Make a note of the wireless network’s name and password (if necessary).
  • Page 40 40 - Connecting to the Internet 4. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 5. If required, enter the network’s password.

  • Page 41: Connecting With A Cable

    Connecting to the Internet - 41 Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature If your computer has a network port, plug one end of a network cable into the network port on your computer, and the other end into a port on your router (refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online.

  • Page 42: 42 - Bluelight Shield

    42 - Bluelight Shield L U E L I G H T H I E L D The Bluelight Shield can be enabled to reduce blue-light emissions from the screen to protect your eyes. To configure the Bluelight Shield, search for ’Quick Access’ in the Start Menu.
  • Page 43 Keeping your computer and data safe... In this section you will find: • How to secure your computer • Setting passwords • What you need to prepare when you’re traveling • How to get the most out of your battery...

  • Page 44: Securing Your Computer

    44 - Securing your computer E C U R I N G Y O U R C O MP U TE R Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer. Security features include hardware and software locks —...

  • Page 45: Entering Passwords

    Securing your computer - 45 Entering passwords When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen. • When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you enter the BIOS utility. • Type the Supervisor Password and press Enter to access the BIOS utility.

  • Page 46: 46 - Fingerprint Reader

    In addition to using an account password or PIN to sign in to Windows apps and services, you can also use the fingerprint reader to sign-in and unlock your Acer notebook. In order to use the fingerprint reader, you must first configure the fingerprint reader to recognize your fingerprint to confirm your identity.
  • Page 47 Fingerprint Reader - 47 2. Set a PIN code. 3. In Windows Hello Fingerprint, select Set up to configure the fingerprint reader.
  • Page 48 48 - Fingerprint Reader 4. In the Windows Hello set up window, select Get started to begin the fingerprint configuration. 5. Enter your PIN to confirm your identity.
  • Page 49 Fingerprint Reader - 49 6. When the Windows Hello setup window appears, follow the onscreen directions. Press and hold your finger on the fingerprint sensor and then lift. Repeat this step until the fingerprint configuration is complete.
  • Page 50 50 - Fingerprint Reader 7. Once the fingerprint configuration is complete, you will be able to sign in or unlock your computer by placing your fingerprint on the fingerprint reader. You may select Add another finger to add another fingerprint to unlock the computer. Note If the notebook has multiple accounts, you can set up access separately and automatically switch between accounts.

  • Page 51: Bios Utility

    BIOS utility - 51 B I O S U T I L I T Y The BIOS utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS. Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not normally need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it.

  • Page 52: Power Management

    52 - Power management O W E R M A N A G E M E N T This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, hard disk, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory.
  • Page 53 Power management - 53 4. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 5. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.

  • Page 54: Battery Pack

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

  • Page 55: Optimizing Battery Life

    Battery pack - 55 Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't been used for a long time. Warning Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F). Extreme temperatures may adversely affect the battery pack.

  • Page 56: Checking The Battery Level

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

  • Page 57: Traveling With Your Computer

    Traveling with your computer - 57 R A V E L I N G W I T H Y O U R C O M P U T E R This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer.

  • Page 58: What To Bring To Meetings

    58 - Traveling with your computer When you are ready to use the computer again, open the display and, if necessary, press and release the power button. Note The computer may enter Hibernation or Deep Sleep mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time.

  • Page 59: Special Considerations

    Traveling with your computer - 59 Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work: • Minimize the effects of temperature changes by keeping the computer with you. • If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot carry the computer with you, leave the computer in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing the computer to excessive heat.

  • Page 60: Preparing The Computer

    60 - Traveling with your computer Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Make sure that the battery in the computer is charged. Airport security may require you to turn on your computer when carrying it into the gate area. What to take with you Take the following items with you: •...

  • Page 61: Special Considerations

    Traveling with your computer - 61 • Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer. • Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to customs officials. • International Travelers Warranty passport. Special considerations Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer.
  • Page 62 Ports and connectors... In this section you will find: • Information on the ports and connectors fitted to your computer...

  • Page 63: Universal Serial Bus (Usb)

    (High-speed USB) and USB 3.2 Gen 1 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.2 Gen 1 devices should always be plugged into USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.

  • Page 64: 64 - Usb Type-C Port

    The Type-C port is reversable; connectors may be inserted with either side up. Note On Acer computers USB Type-C ports support up to USB 3.2 (SuperSpeed  USB, 5 Gbps). Other USB devices with a USB Type-C connector are supported, but transfer speed may be reduced and certain functions will be disabled (such as Thunderbolt video support).

  • Page 65: Video And Audio Connectors

    Video and audio connectors - 65 I D E O A N D A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Add an external monitor to your computer via a video port. The type of port available depends on your computer’s configuration.

  • Page 66: Hdmi

    66 - HDMI H D M I HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a high-quality, digital audio/video interface. HDMI allows you to connect any compatible digital audio/video source, such as your computer, a set-top box, DVD player, and audio/video receiver to any compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV) with a single cable.
  • Page 67 Got a question? In this section you will find: • Frequently asked questions • Tips for using Windows 10 • Troubleshooting information • How to protect yourself while online • Where to find Acer service center contact information...

  • Page 68: Frequently Asked Questions

    68 - Frequently asked questions R E Q U E N TL Y A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer.
  • Page 69 Frequently asked questions - 69 icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and drag the slider to the right to increase the volume. • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar.

  • Page 70: Requesting Service

    70 - Frequently asked questions Note To access the BIOS utility, press F2 when you see the Acer logo during boot For more information, see Restoring your computer on page Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Your computer is backed by an International Travelers Warranty (ITW) that gives you security and peace of mind when traveling.

  • Page 71: Tips And Hints For Using Windows 10

    F r e qu e nt ly a sk Frequently asked questions - 71 Tips and hints for using Windows 10 We know this is a new operating system that will take some getting used to, so we've created a few pointers to help you get started. How do I get to Start? Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button on the lower left-hand corner of the screen.
  • Page 72 72 - Frequently asked questions Can I personalize the Lock screen? You can personalize the lock screen with a different image, to run a slideshow of images, or to show you quick status and notifications to suit your personal needs. To change the background, press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button and select Settings >...

  • Page 73: How Do I Set The Alarm

    Frequently asked questions - 73 Can I change the screen resolution? Yes, you can. Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and type 'Resolution' in the text box to display the results; select Change the resolution of the display. Alternatively, you can also right-click anywhere on the desktop and select Display settings >...

  • Page 74: Where Are My Apps

    74 - Frequently asked questions Where are my apps? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and click search box, start typing the name of the app you would like to open. How do I make an app appear on Start? If you're in all apps list and you want to make an app appear on Start, right-click an app and select Pin to Start.

  • Page 75: How Do I Check For Windows Updates

    Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Select Advanced options to configure the settings. Where can I get more information? For more information please visit the following pages: • Windows 10 information: www.microsoft.com • Support FAQs: support.acer.com...

  • Page 76: Troubleshooting

    Fr eq u en tl y as ked qu es t io ns 76 - Frequently asked questions Troubleshooting This chapter shows you how to deal with common system problems.  Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer.
  • Page 77 Frequently asked questions - 77 Error messages Corrective action Contact your dealer or an authorized service I/O parity error center. Keyboard error or no Contact your dealer or an authorized service keyboard connected center. Keyboard interface Contact your dealer or an authorized service error center.
  • Page 78 78 - Internet and online security N T E R N E T A N D O N L I N E S E C U R I T Y First steps on the net Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the 81).
  • Page 79 Internet and online security - 79 internet as the connection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour. DSL (e.g. ADSL) DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an ‘always-on’ connection that runs over the phone line. As DSL and phone do not use the same frequencies, you can use your telephone at the same time you are connected to the internet (this requires a ‘micro-filter’...
  • Page 80 80 - Internet and online security Network connections A LAN (Local Area Network) is a group of computers (for example, within an office building or home) that share a common communications line and resources. When you set up a network, you can share files, peripheral devices (such as a printer) and an internet connection.
  • Page 81 Acer is dedicated to provide you with on-going personalized support. Check out our Support section to get help tailored to your needs. www.acer.com is your portal to a world of online activities and services: visit us regularly for the latest information and downloads!
  • Page 82 82 - Internet and online security Internet security software To help you stay ahead of cybercriminals, Acer has partnered with Norton to offer you security for all your devices. Select Acer computers include protection by Norton Security Norton Security is pre-installed on select Acer computers, protecting your identity and financial data from viruses, spyware, malware and other online threats.
  • Page 83 Internet and online security - 83 Don't be fooled if someone calls your phone A tech support scam is a form of online fraud where people call you on the phone saying they're Technical Support from a trusted company like Norton or Microsoft and that you have a virus. The main motive behind these scams is to extort money from the victim.
  • Page 84 84 - Internet and online security Botnets A botnet is a string of infected, connected computers coordinated together to perform a task. Botnets gain access to your machine through some piece of malicious coding. Once the software is downloaded, the botnet will now contact its master computer and let it know that everything is ready to go.
  • Page 85 Internet and online security - 85 between these transmissions. They then set up tools programmed to "listen in" on transmissions, intercept data that is specifically targeted as valuable, and capture the data, such as your login credentials and passwords. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure your privacy and anonymity are protected when you use public Wi-Fi.
  • Page 86 86 - Internet and online security However, do not blame every computer problem on a virus! If you suspect your computer is infected, the first thing to do is update, if you have not already done so, and run your antivirus and anti-spyware software.

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