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Gateway FX540 Reference Manual

Gateway fx540: reference guide
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REFERENCE GUIDE

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Summary of Contents for Gateway FX540

  • Page 1 REFERENCE GUIDE...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Accessing your online User Guide ......2 Gateway contact information ......3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity .
  • Page 4 Contents Creating discs ........30 Using the memory card reader .
  • Page 5 Adding or replacing an expansion card ....71 Replacing the system battery ......74 Replacing the system board .
  • Page 6 Telephone support ........133 Before calling Gateway Customer Care ... . . 133 Telephone numbers .

  • Page 7: Chapter 1: About This Reference

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

  • Page 8: About This Guide

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

  • Page 9: Gateway Contact Information

    Gateway contact information The label on the side of your computer contains information that identifies your computer model and serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance. Serial number Technical Support telephone number...
  • Page 10 CHAPTER 1: About This Reference...

  • Page 11: Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer

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

  • Page 12: Front

    CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Front Optical disc drive Additional drive bay Memory card reader and USB port (optional) Power button/ power indicator Hard drive indicator IEEE 1394 ports USB ports Headphone jack Microphone jack Component Icon Description Optical disc drive Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install games and programs, watch DVDs, and store large files onto recordable discs (depending on...
  • Page 13 Component Icon Description Power Press this button to turn the power on or off. button/power You can also configure the power button to indicator operate in Standby/Resume mode or Hibernate mode. The power indicator lights when the computer is turned on.

  • Page 14: Back

    CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Back Important Your computer’s hardware options and port locations may vary from this illustration. Cover release lever Power connector Case cover thumbscrew Cable lock slot Center/Subwoofer jack Surround left/right jack S/PDIF (optical audio) jack Audio in/side speaker jack Microphone jack Headphone/Front speaker jack...
  • Page 15 Component Icon Description Surround left/right Plug your rear right and left speakers into jack (black) this jack. This jack is disabled when an audio expansion card is installed. For more information, see “Configuring the audio jacks” on page Audio in (Line in) jack...
  • Page 16 CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Component Icon Description Headphone/analog This jack is user configurable for one of the speakers jack (green) following: -OR- Headphone: Plug headphones or ■ Front speakers jack amplified speakers into this jack (Default). Stereo out: Plug your front left and right ■...

  • Page 17: Video Card Ports

    Video card ports S-Video out jack DVI ports If your computer came with high-end video cards installed (number and type may vary), you can connect multiple monitors for a multi-screen panel array, or you can enable the SLI connection between the two cards so that both cards work as a single card, delivering ultra-high frame rates for your single gaming monitor.
  • Page 18 CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer...

  • Page 19: Chapter 3: Setting Up And Getting Started

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

  • Page 20: Working Safely And Comfortably

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

  • Page 21: Reducing Eye Strain

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

  • Page 22: Sitting At Your Computer

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

  • Page 23: Connecting To A Broadband Modem Or Network

    Connecting to a broadband modem or network Important Your computer may be equipped with a built-in Ethernet (network) jack. For information about setting up a wired or wireless Ethernet network, see your online User Guide. You can connect your computer to a broadband (cable or DSL) modem or to a wired Ethernet network.

  • Page 24: Starting Your Computer

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Starting your computer To start your computer: Connect the power, network, mouse, and keyboard cables to your computer according to the setup poster. Press the power button on the front of your computer. If your computer does not turn on, check the power cable connections.

  • Page 25: Turning Off Your Computer

    Turning off your computer Warning When you turn off your computer, certain components in the power supply and system board remain energized. In order to remove all electrical power from your computer, unplug the power cord and modem cable from the wall outlets.

  • Page 26: Restarting (Rebooting) Your Computer

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Restarting (rebooting) your computer If your computer does not respond to keyboard or mouse input, you may need to restart (reboot) your computer. To restart your computer: Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then click Restart.

  • Page 27: Using The Keyboard

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

  • Page 28: Elite Multimedia Keyboard Features

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Description Indicators Show if your N , or S CROLL keys are activated. Press the corresponding key to activate the function. Windows keys Press one of these keys to open the Windows Start menu.
  • Page 29 Feature Icon Description Sleep button Press this button to activate your computer’s Sleep (power-saving) mode. Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.

  • Page 30: Using The Mouse

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

  • Page 32: Using Optical Drives

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

  • Page 33: Identifying Optical Drive Types

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

  • Page 34: Playing Discs

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started If your optical drive has Your drive type Use your drive for... this logo... is... DVD-RAM/-RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, RECORDER accessing data, and recording video and data to CDs and DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW discs.
  • Page 35 Playing a DVD A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies, several albums of music, or several gigabytes of data can fit on a single disc. DVDs can be played on a DVD player or a DVD drive-equipped computer.

  • Page 36: Creating Discs

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

  • Page 37: Memory Card Types

    Memory card types The memory card reader supports several memory card types. To determine which types are supported by your card reader and the slots to use for each type of card, examine the face plate of the reader. Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, the E: and F: drives) so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.

  • Page 38: Adjusting The Volume

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Adjusting the volume You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls or the Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of specific sound devices in your computer. To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls: •...
  • Page 39 To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The Volume Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag sliders for individual devices. Adjust the Windows Sounds slider to change system sounds volume independently of general volume (such as the volume used for music and game sounds).

  • Page 40: Configuring The Audio Jacks

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Configuring the audio jacks If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks. This means that they can be used for more than one purpose. For example, the blue jack on the computer can be a stereo in jack or a stereo out jack.

  • Page 41: Installing A Printer, Scanner, Or Other Device

    Installing a printer, scanner, or other device Important Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the device documentation and installation instructions. ® Your computer has IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire ) ports and Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports. You use these ports to connect peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras to your computer.
  • Page 42 CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started...

  • Page 43: Chapter 4: Advanced Hardware Setup

    CHAPTER4 Advanced Hardware Setup • Setting up dual video cards • Setting up multiple monitors • Setting up RAID...

  • Page 44: Setting Up Dual Video Cards

    CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup Setting up dual video cards If your computer has two high-end graphics cards installed, you can enable the SLI connection between two cards so that both cards work as a single card, delivering ultra-high frame rates for a single gaming monitor.
  • Page 45 Right-click on the Windows desktop, then click NVIDIA Control Panel. The NVIDIA Control Panel View Selection dialog box opens (this dialog box opens only the first time that you open the NVIDIA Control Panel). Click Advanced Settings, then click OK. The NVIDIA...

  • Page 46: Setting Up Multiple Monitors

    CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup In the Select a Task list on the left side of the control panel, under 3D Settings, click Set SLI configuration. The Set SLI Configuration screen opens. Click Enable SLI technology (recommended), then click Apply. If the Applications Shutdown Required message box opens, click Yes.

  • Page 47: Setting Up Raid

    Setting up RAID About RAID RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive/ Independent Disks) lets your computer use multiple hard drives more efficiently. Your computer supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10. RAID 0 for performance RAID 0 lets your computer see multiple hard drives as a single drive.

  • Page 48: Raid 1 For Security

    CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup How it makes file storage cheaper Because RAID 0 lets your computer see multiple hard drives as a single drive, you can install several lower capacity (less expensive) drives and have the same single-drive storage simplicity and capacity as a larger, more expensive hard drive.

  • Page 49: Raid 5 And 10 For Both Performance And Security

    Drawback RAID 1 treats the entire array as a single drive with the storage capacity of the smallest physical drive in the array. So if you have two drives (300 GB and 250 GB) in a RAID 1 array, your computer only recognizes a single drive with 250 GB total capacity.

  • Page 50: Preparing Your Computer For Raid

    CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup In the following graphic, each letter represents a unique block of data, and each column represents a separate hard drive. RAID 0 RAID 1 RAID 1 Drawback A RAID 5 array is treated as one drive with the capacity of all but one of the drives added together.

  • Page 51: Configuring Raid

    Configuring RAID Creating a RAID volume Because RAID can be configured so many ways, this procedure covers only the basics. This procedure assumes that no RAID has been defined yet. To create a RAID volume: Install additional hard drives as needed for your RAID plan.

  • Page 52: Getting Help

    CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup Getting help For more information on RAID concepts, configuration, and maintenance, search for RAID FAQ information on the Gateway Technical Support Web site (www.gateway.com) or use an Internet search engine to search for: • RAID •...

  • Page 53: Chapter 5: Upgrading Your Computer

    CHAPTER5 Upgrading Your Computer • Preventing static electricity discharge • Opening the case • Closing the case • Adding or replacing memory • Adding or replacing an optical disc drive • Replacing the memory card reader • Adding or replacing a hard drive •...

  • Page 54: Preventing Static Electricity Discharge

    CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Preventing static electricity discharge Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network cables before opening the case. To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes of the power supply.

  • Page 55: Opening The Case

    Opening the case Your computer case provides easy access to internal components. Removing the side panel Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer, then unplug the power cord and modem cable before opening the case.
  • Page 56 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Lift the cover release lever, then swing the side panel away from the computer.

  • Page 57: Removing The Front Bezel

    Removing the front bezel To remove the front bezel: • Push on the three spring tabs, grasp the right side of the front bezel, then pull the bezel out and away from the case. Spring tabs...

  • Page 58: Closing The Case

    CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Closing the case Replacing the front bezel To replace the front bezel: Insert the tabs on the left side of the bezel into the slots in the left side of the computer. Tabs and slots Swing the right side of the bezel in so the tabs on the right side of the bezel go into the slots on the right side of the computer.

  • Page 59: Adding Or Replacing Memory

    Insert the bottom edge of the side panel into the inside bottom edge of the computer, then swing the side panel in toward the top of the computer to secure it into place. Replace the side panel thumbscrew. Reconnect the cables and power cord.
  • Page 60 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Find the memory module banks on your system board. DIMM 3 DIMM 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 0 If you are removing a DIMM from the memory module bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module and remove it.

  • Page 61: Adding Or Replacing An Optical Disc Drive

    Turn on your computer. Windows starts and the Windows desktop appears. Click (Start), right-click Computer, then click Properties. The amount of memory in your computer is displayed. Adding or replacing an optical disc drive To add or replace an optical disc drive: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel”...
  • Page 62 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the drive thumbscrew from the optical drive. Drive thumbscrew Slide the drive release latch toward the back of the computer to release the drive. Slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay.

  • Page 63: Replacing The Memory Card Reader

    If you are replacing a drive, note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the jumpers on the new drive to be the same. If you are installing a new drive, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Slide the new drive into the drive bay, line up the...
  • Page 64 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the thumbscrew holding the card reader in the drive bay. Thumbscrew Slide the card reader out of the case. Slide the new card reader into the bay from the front of the case, then slide the drive release latch forward to lock the drive into place.

  • Page 65: Adding Or Replacing A Hard Drive

    Adding or replacing a hard drive To add or replace a hard drive: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page Slide the drive slot’s release latch toward you to unlock it (or it may already be unlocked).
  • Page 66 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the hard drive by sliding it out of the drive bay. Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then secure it in the drive bay by sliding the drive release latch back. If you are replacing a drive, reconnect the drive cables using your notes from Step 4.

  • Page 67: Replacing The Front Fan

    If you installed a new primary drive: • Format and partition the drive according to the manufacturer’s instructions. • Install Windows using the operating system DVD that came with your computer. For more information on restoring your system, see “Recovering your system”...
  • Page 68 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. The location of the fan connection may vary, so trace the fan cable from the fan to the system board. Front fan connector Remove the fan mount by pressing in on the flat area (1) near the front, then rotating the fan mount (2) back.
  • Page 69 Slide the new fan into the fan mount. Caution Be careful not to catch the wires connecting the power button to the system board when rotating the fan mount. A notch has been provided for routing these wires. Insert the tabs on the rear of the fan mount into the slots provided, then rotate the mount into place.

  • Page 70: Replacing The Rear Fan

    CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the rear fan Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the rear fan. To replace the rear fan: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.
  • Page 71 Remove the four screws that secure the fan to the inside back of the computer, then remove the fan from inside the computer. Note the orientation of the fan and install the new fan the same way. Screws Insert the new fan into the computer and line it up with...

  • Page 72: Replacing The Power Supply

    CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the power supply Tools ® You need a Phillips screwdriver and a Torx or “star” driver (size T15) to replace the power supply. A slotted (flat) screwdriver can be used in place of the Torx driver, but it must be the 7/64"...

  • Page 73: Replacing The Heat Sink And Processor

    Reconnect the power supply cables using your notes from Step 2. Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page Replacing the heat sink and processor Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the heat sink.
  • Page 74 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. (The screws cannot be completely removed.) Caution The heat sink has Thermal Interface Material (TIM) located on the bottom of it.

  • Page 75: Replacing The I/O Board

    Remove the processor from the system board. Install the new processor onto the system board making sure that Pin 1 on the processor (indicated by the silk-screened arrow on the corner of the processor) aligns with Pin 1 on the processor socket (indicated by the absence of a pin hole in the processor socket), then return the lever to its locked position.
  • Page 76 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the screw that secures the front I/O assembly to the computer, then remove the I/O assembly. Screw Remove the screw that secures the front I/O panel board to the computer, then remove the I/O panel board by pushing it toward the back of the computer.

  • Page 77: Adding Or Replacing An Expansion Card

    Adding or replacing an expansion card To add or replace an expansion card: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page Important Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary from the illustrations below.
  • Page 78 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Open the expansion card cover. For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface. If you are replacing a card, disconnect any cables that are attached to the card, noting their locations and orientation.
  • Page 79 Remove the old expansion card (if necessary). You can slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to loosen it, but do not bend the card sideways. To remove a card (such as a video card) from the PCI Express slot, press the card release lever before trying to remove the card.

  • Page 80: Replacing The System Battery

    CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the system battery Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries according to local hazardous materials regulations. If the computer clock does not keep time or the settings in the BIOS Setup utility are not saved when you turn off your computer, replace the system battery.

  • Page 81: Replacing The System Board

    Pry the battery out of the socket. Caution Make sure that you do not damage any nearby components while prying the battery out of its socket. Make sure that the positive (+) side of the new battery is facing up, then press the battery into the socket until it snaps into place.
  • Page 82 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the fan cover by holding cables out of the way and pulling the cover away from the computer. Find the memory module banks on your system board. Gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory modules, then remove them.
  • Page 83 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. (These screws cannot be completely removed.) Screws Screws Disconnect the power and data cables from the system board, noting their locations and orientation. (You will...
  • Page 84 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the seven system board screws. Screws Screws Lift the system board up and out of the case. Align the new system board on the standoffs and secure it into the computer case with the screws. If your replacement system board does not include a processor, go to Step 14.
  • Page 85 Release the processor from the old system board by pushing down on the lever, then lifting the lever completely up. Remove the processor from the old system board. Install the processor onto the new system board making sure that Pin 1 on the processor (indicated by the...
  • Page 86 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Connect the power and data cables using your notes from Step 9, or use the following graphic as a guide.. AUX power Power Fan (rear) Front panel audio SATA 6 SATA 5 SATA 4 SATA 3 SATA 1 SATA 2 IEEE1394...
  • Page 87 Reconnect the expansion card cables using your notes from Step 3. Install the fan cover by following the directions in “Replacing the heat sink and processor” on page Return your computer to its upright position. Replace the side panel by following the instructions in...
  • Page 88 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer...

  • Page 89: Chapter 6: Maintaining Your Computer

    CHAPTER6 Maintaining Your Computer • Setting up a maintenance schedule • Caring for your computer • Cleaning your computer • Updating Windows • Using BigFix • Managing hard drive space • Scheduling maintenance tasks • Moving from your old computer...

  • Page 90: Setting Up A Maintenance Schedule

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Setting up a maintenance schedule Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule. Maintenance task Weekly Monthly When needed Check for viruses Run Windows Update Manage hard drive space Clean up hard drives Scan hard drive for errors Defragment hard drive Back up files...

  • Page 91: Caring For Your Computer

    Caring for your computer To extend the life of your computer: • Be careful not to bump or drop your computer, and do not put any objects on top of it. The case, although strong, is not made to support extra weight.

  • Page 92: Cleaning Your Computer

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning your computer Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put together a computer cleaning kit: •...

  • Page 93: Cleaning The Keyboard

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

  • Page 94: Cleaning Optical Discs

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning optical discs Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs) get dirty from frequent handling. To clean an optical disc: Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle, using a product made especially for the purpose. Updating Windows Windows Update helps you keep your computer up-to-date.

  • Page 95: Using Bigfix

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

  • Page 96: Managing Hard Drive Space

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Managing hard drive space Windows provides several utilities you can use to check hard drive space, delete unnecessary files, defragment files, and back up files. Checking hard drive space To check hard drive space: Shortcut Start Computer right-click drive...

  • Page 97: Deleting Unnecessary Files

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

  • Page 98: Checking The Hard Drive For Errors

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Click one of the options: • My files only cleans only the folders for the currently logged in user. • Files from all users on this computer cleans all folders. The Disk Cleanup Options dialog box opens. Click to select the types of files you want to delete, then click OK.

  • Page 99: Defragmenting The Hard Drive

    Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked for errors. This process may take several minutes. Important Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used, so if you try to check your hard drive for errors, you see a prompt asking you if you want to scan the hard drive later (the next time you restart your computer).

  • Page 100: Backing Up Files

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer To defragment the hard drive: Disconnect your computer from the network. Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk Defragmenter dialog box opens. Click Defragment now. This process may take hours to complete, depending on the size of the drive being defragmented.
  • Page 101 To back up files: Click (Start), then click Computer. The Computer window opens. Right-click the drive that you want to back up, click Properties, then click the Tools tab. Click Backup Now, then click Run a file backup now.

  • Page 102: Scheduling Maintenance Tasks

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Scheduling maintenance tasks Task Scheduler lets you schedule maintenance tasks such as running Disk Defragmenter and checking your drives for errors. Important Your computer must be on during scheduled tasks. If your computer is off, scheduled tasks will not run.

  • Page 103: Moving From Your Old Computer

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

  • Page 104: Transferring Files And Settings Manually

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer Transferring files and settings manually You can manually transfer your personal data files by copying them to removable media, such as a writable disc, an external hard drive, a network location, or a flash drive. Finding your documents Many programs save your personal data files in the Documents or My Documents folder.

  • Page 105: Finding Other Files

    Finding other files Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data files. For more information, see your online User Guide. You can often identify different data file types by looking at the file’s extension (the part of the file name following the last period).
  • Page 106 CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer...

  • Page 107: Chapter 7: Troubleshooting

    CHAPTER7 Troubleshooting • Safety guidelines • First steps • Troubleshooting • Restoring your computer • Telephone support...

  • Page 108: Safety Guidelines

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting Safety guidelines While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines: Warning Never open your computer case while your computer is turned on and while the modem cable, network cable, and power cord are connected. Warning Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal components.

  • Page 109: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order. Add-in cards “Expansion cards” on page 106. Audio “Sound” on page 121. CD or DVD drives The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD or DVD drive • Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.
  • Page 110 CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting An audio CD does not produce sound • Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again. • Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer. •...

  • Page 111: Display

    Display “Monitor” on page 117. DVD drives • “CD or DVD drives” on page 103. Ethernet You cannot see the other computers on your network • Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the Ethernet jack on your computer. Make sure that the other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub, or other network device.

  • Page 112: Expansion Cards

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting The computer does not recognize an Ethernet expansion card • Shut down and restart your computer. • Make sure that you have installed the required software. For more information, see the documentation that came with your Ethernet card. •...

  • Page 113: Hard Drive

    Right-click the file you want to restore, then click Restore. The file is restored to the place where it was originally deleted from. If the Recycle Bin was emptied before you try to restore a file, the file cannot be restored.

  • Page 114: Internet

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting You see a “Non-system disk” or “disk error” error message • Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press NTER Internet See also “Modem (dial-up)” on page 114. You cannot connect to the Internet • If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack.

  • Page 115: Keyboard

    Connecting to a Web site takes too long Many factors can affect Internet performance: • The condition of the telephone lines in your residence or at your local telephone service • The condition of the Internet computers to which you...

  • Page 116: Media Center

    Media Center mode is available only on Windows Vista Home Premium and Ultimate versions. To view Media Center troubleshooting information that is not covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site at www.gateway.com. Help For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click Help and Support.
  • Page 117 • Quality of video cables—Poor quality or the incorrect type of video cables can cause problems and affect the video quality. Gateway recommends using high-quality video cables that can be purchased from www.gateway.com. Important Cable connections must be made correctly for optimal video quality.
  • Page 118 S-Video display device and automatically changes the display settings for the type of display device you are using. For more information, see the Gateway support Web site at www.gateway.com. You want to change display settings to get better TV or DVD image quality •...

  • Page 119: Memory

    You want to play recorded programs on other computers • A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be replayed on another computer running Media Center or on any computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). The non-Media Center...

  • Page 120: Modem (Cable Or Dsl)

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting Modem (cable or DSL) My computer cannot connect to the Internet. • Make sure that your modem is connected to the network jack. For the location of your network jack, see your setup poster or “Back” on page •...
  • Page 121 Click the Dialing Rules tab, click the location from which you are dialing, then click Edit. Make sure that all settings are correct. Help For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword dialing in the Search Help...
  • Page 122 CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise, telephone service provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may lower the speed even further. If your computer has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K.

  • Page 123: Monitor

    Click the Diagnostic tab, then click Query Modem. If information about the modem appears, the modem passed diagnostics. If no modem information is available, a white screen appears with no data, or if you get an error such as port already open or the modem has failed to respond, the modem did not pass diagnostics.

  • Page 124: Mouse

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting The computer is running, but there is no picture • Adjust the brightness and contrast controls to the center position. • Check the cable for bent or damaged pins. • Make sure that the monitor is plugged in and turned on. If the monitor is turned on, the power LED should be lit.

  • Page 125: Networks

    The mouse works erratically • If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across the computer screen or becomes difficult to control precisely, cleaning the mouse will likely improve its accuracy. • Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean, damp cloth.

  • Page 126: Printer

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting Printer The printer will not turn on • Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have an online/offline button that you may need to press. • Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an AC power source.

  • Page 127: Sound

    Right-click the printer you want to use. If the menu shows a check mark next to Use Printer Offline, click Use Printer Offline to clear the check mark. • Wait until files have been printed before sending additional files to the printer.

  • Page 128: Restoring Your Computer

    You can solve most computer problems by following the information in this chapter or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com. Problem solving may also involve re-installing some or all of the computer’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions.

  • Page 129: Recovering Pre-Installed Software And Drivers

    You can recover pre-installed software and drivers from a set of recovery discs (you must create the discs) or by using Gateway Recovery Center. Preparing for software and device driver recovery You can usually recover your pre-installed software and drivers from your hard drive.
  • Page 130 To create discs for recovering pre-installed software and drivers: Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The Gateway Recovery Center opens. Click Applications and drivers external media, then click Next. The What would you like to do? dialog box opens.
  • Page 131 Important If you have recently reinstalled Windows or installed a new hard drive and your Start menu does not contain Gateway Recovery Center as an option, you must recover your software and drivers using software and driver recovery discs you have created. For instructions, see “Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”...
  • Page 132 CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting To recover software that was pre-installed, click Programs, then click Application recovery. - OR - To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click Hardware, then click Device driver recovery. Click the software or driver you want to recover, then click Next.
  • Page 133 Insert a software and driver recovery disc into a CD or DVD drive. If an AutoPlay dialog box appears, click Run Grc_Vista.exe. If an AutoPlay dialog box does not appear and Gateway Recovery Center does not start, open Computer and run the file Grc_Vista.exe on the disc.

  • Page 134: Using Microsoft System Restore

    Click Next. If the software or driver is not shown on the list and you have a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, close Gateway Recovery Center and try another disc. Using Microsoft System Restore Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as restore points.
  • Page 135 To restore using Microsoft System Restore: Click (Start), Control Panel, System and Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center. The Backup and Restore Center opens. On the left side of the window, click Repair Windows using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a restore point dialog box opens.
  • Page 136 CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting Manually creating a restore point To manually create a restore point: Click (Start), Control Panel, System and Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center. The Backup and Restore Center opens. On the left side of the window, click Create a restore point or change settings, then click Next.

  • Page 137: Recovering Your System To Its Factory Condition

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

  • Page 138: Recovering Your System Using The Windows Dvd

    CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting To perform a recovery with data backup (recommended), click Recovery with automatic data backup, then click Next. Important Before your hard drive is recovered, your personal files will be automatically backed up to c:\backup. - OR - To perform a full factory recovery without data backup, click Full factory recovery, then click Next.

  • Page 139: Telephone Support

    If you have recently installed hardware or software, make sure that you have installed it according to the instructions provided with it. If you did not purchase the hardware or software from Gateway, see the manufacturer’s documentation and technical support resources.

  • Page 140: Telephone Numbers

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

  • Page 141: Self-Help

    Support. Type the keyword practice in the Search Help box, then press NTER Tutoring Answers by Gateway is a telephone service that provides answers to all of your “How do I...” questions on Gateway computers. For more information, go to www.gateway.com/answers. Training Gateway provides the following computer-based training:...
  • Page 142 CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting...

  • Page 143: Appendix A: Legal Notices

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

  • Page 144: Important Safety Information

    Always follow these instructions to help guard against personal injury and damage to your Gateway system. Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.

  • Page 145: Replacement Parts And Accessories

    • The system was dropped or the cabinet is damaged. • The system performance changes. Replacement parts and accessories Use only replacement parts and accessories recommended by Gateway. Regulatory compliance statements United States of America Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Unintentional emitter per FCC Part 15 This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.

  • Page 146: Fcc Declaration Of Conformity

    Phone: 800-846-2000 Caution Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Gateway could void the FCC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this device is subject to the following two conditions: (1)this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

  • Page 147: Laser Safety Statement

    CD or DVD drive. All Gateway systems equipped with CD and DVD drives comply with the appropriate safety standards, including IEC 825. The laser devices in these components are classified as “Class 1 Laser Products”...

  • Page 148: External Television Antenna Grounding

    If an outside antenna or cable system is to be connected to your Gateway PC, make sure that the antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection against voltage surges and static charges.
  • Page 149 Power lines Warning When installing or realigning an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits. Contact with them could be fatal. Do not locate the antenna near overhead light or power circuits, or where it could fall into such power lines or circuits.

  • Page 150: Environmental Information

    Gateway is not responsible for inaccurate information which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates, consult the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special, exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this manual, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.

  • Page 151: Macrovision Statement

    Gateway and the Black-and-White Spot Design are trademarks or registered trademarks of Gateway, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Intel, Intel Inside logo, and Pentium are registered trademarks and MMX is a trademark of Intel Corporation. Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
  • Page 152 APPENDIX A: Legal Notices...

  • Page 153: Index

    Index recording broadband AC power connector connection accessories modem safety precautions broadband connection activity indicators connecting See indicators buttons application buttons See keys and buttons application key arrow keys audio cable modem audio in jack connecting center speaker jack troubleshooting configuring jacks Caps Lock indicator front speaker jack...
  • Page 154 Index CD drive adding DSL modem identifying Ethernet locating drive external audio replacing external speakers See also optical drive Firewire troubleshooting front speaker headphone cellular phone i.Link memory cards IEEE 1394 Certificate of Authenticity keyboard cleaning line in audio CD line out case microphone...
  • Page 155 DVD drive speed adding identifying digital audio out replacing digital camera See also optical drive locating USB port troubleshooting digital video camera locating IEEE 1394 port DIMM editing buttons See memory electrostatic discharge (ESD) directional keys ergonomics...
  • Page 156 DVD drive model number expansion card serial number front bezel Support front fan Gateway Recovery Center front I/O panel re-installing drivers hard drive re-installing programs heat sink re-installing software memory memory card reader peripheral devices...
  • Page 157 Task Scheduler editing media reader function See memory card reader Internet memory mouse adding navigation installing numeric replacing sleep troubleshooting Windows memory card reader inserting card locating labels memory card types Microsoft Certificate of supported Authenticity removing card...
  • Page 158 Index selecting screen objects troubleshooting Pad Lock indicator USB port password moving troubleshooting files from old computer memory cards pointer peripheral devices screen objects settings from old computer playing audio CD Blu-ray Disc MP3 player memory cards HD-DVD multimedia Plug and Play devices adjusting volume IEEE 1394 support for playing Blu-ray...
  • Page 159 Gateway Recovery Center with Windows DVD with Windows System RAID Restore configuring removing files and folders creating volume resetting computer deleting volume help information restarting computer preparing computer restoring setting up defaults RAID 0 drivers files from Recycle Bin...
  • Page 160 Gateway Learning Libraries opening menu shutting down computer Learn With Gateway side panel transferring removing files from old computer replacing sleep button settings from old computer...
  • Page 161 Windows System Restore printer creating restore point safety guidelines Windows Update screen wired Ethernet screen area troubleshooting screen resolution working safely sound technical support telephone support Web site connection speed Windows Media Center turning off computer Zip drive...
  • Page 162 Index...
  • Page 164 MAN FX540 HW REF GDE V R0 9/07...

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