Gateway EC14 Quick Start Manual

Quick start guide for windows 7

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Table of Contents

Troubleshooting

Summary of Contents for Gateway EC14

Page 1: Table Of Contents
Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide ABLE OF ON T ENT S Product Registration Protecting your computer........20 Choose an ‘Internet Service Provider’....20 Important Information Network connections .......... 21 Surf the Net! ............23 Computer Basics Safety and Comfort ............4 Helpdesk Safety Precautions ..........
Page 2: Product Registration
R OD U C T EGISTRATION When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that you immediately register it. This will give you access to some useful benefits, such as: • Faster service from our trained representatives •...
Page 3: Important Information
MPOR TANT NFO R M A T ION Thank you for purchasing a Gateway computer! This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your computer and assist in your computing experience. It will also help you maintain your computer and troubleshoot in case you encounter a problem. To make the most of your computer, Gateway recommends you perform the actions described below before you start working with your computer.
Page 4: Computer Basics
OMPUTER AS IC S AFETY AND OMFORT Safety Precautions Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably and to avoid health problems. Computer Environment Make sure that the computer: • Is used on a stable surface, stand or table. A fall can seriously damage the computer. •...
Page 5: Health Precautions
Unplug your computer from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel when: • the power cord or plug is damaged, cut or frayed, • liquid was spilled into the product, • the product was exposed to rain or water, •...
Page 6: Getting To Know Your Computer
ETTING TO NOW YOUR OMPUTER Control Devices (Keyboard/Touchpad) Keyboard The keyboard is used to enter text or commands. The functions of the keys depend on the program you are using. The keyboard displayed in this guide is just an example. The layout of your keyboard may vary slightly. For a full description of your keyboard, please refer to InfoCentre.
Page 7: Volume Controls
Click one of the touchpad buttons to select or activate the command the cursor is pointing at. Ensure that you use a light touch on the touchpad surface. 1. Left-click to select the item under the pointer. Double-click to start the program under the cursor, or select an entire word when typing text.
Page 8: Remote Control (Optional)
Your Computer’s Drives The drives described below are commonly used on Gateway computers. However, this does not mean that they are present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these drives. To view documentation specific to the model you have purchased, please check Gateway InfoCentre.
Page 9 Removing a card from an External Card Reader 1. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Notification Area (next to the clock). 2. Click on Eject SD Card (or the name of the device). 3. Wait until a Safe to Remove Hardware message is displayed. 4.
Page 10: Power Supply
✓ Keep the disc tray closed whenever you are not using the drive. Do not touch the optical lens in the drive, if the lens is dirty, the optical drive may not function correctly. ✓ Do not wipe the lens with a normal cloth. Use a cotton swab to gently clean the lens. ✓...
Page 11: Ports And Connectors
Ports and Connectors The ports and connector types described below are commonly used on Gateway computers. However, this does not mean that they are present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these ports. To view documentation specific to the model you have purchased, please check InfoCentre.
Page 12: Turning Your Computer On Or Off
Note: It is not possible to use a PC Card device in an ExpressCard slot. eSATA - An eSATA port allows you to connect a compatible external storage device (usually a hard disk drive) with a high-speed SATA connection. Display and Audio Ports VGA Port - Connect to a monitor with a VGA port.
Page 13 time by clicking on Start > Control Panel > User Accounts and Family Safety. To learn more about user account management, please see the section User Account Control on page 33. Turning your Computer OFF Make sure all applications are closed before you turn off your computer. Turning off your computer will ensure that a data is saved and it will use as little power as possible (there may be a small power drain to charge batteries), however your computer will take longer to start.
Page 14: Upgrading Your Computer
Power Options The power options of Windows can control your computer’s power state and allow you to save energy. Depending on your needs, you can define the power scheme that suits you best. Three power saving modes are provided: Sleep, Hibernate and Hybrid sleep. Sleep Sleep effectively ’pauses’...
Page 15: Internet And Software
INDOWS AND YOUR OFTWARE Gateway computers include software to help you use your computer; the programs and categories available on your computer depend on the model purchased. Most of this software is ’pre-installed’ and ready to be used; however some software may be provided on a CD or DVD and must first be installed if you wish to use it. To do so, insert the installation CD or DVD.
Page 16: Gateway Recovery Management
Gateway Recovery Management To prepare your computer for system recovery options, you should create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible. Recovery discs take some time to create, but for long-term reliability, the effort is worth it. Creating recovery discs If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall the Windows operating system and factory-loaded software and drivers.
Page 17: Your Computer's Documentation
3. Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the Burn to list, then click Next. The first disc begins recording, and you can watch its progress on the screen. When the disc finishes recording, the drive ejects it. 4.
Page 18: Playing Multimedia Files
The updates will be downloaded from Gateway and automatically installed on your computer. Your updated version of InfoCentre will contain detailed specific information on your computer’s configuration. The My Computer button contains all the technical information about your computer's components and useful tips on how to upgrade your computer.
Page 19 Note: If you have an Internet connection, the Guide (Electronic Program Guide) allows you to view a list of current TV shows. This shows channel and network information, as well as the title, description and scheduled broadcast time of shows. Cyberlink PowerDVD If your computer is equipped with a Blu-ray drive, you may watch Blu-ray movies with PowerDVD.
Page 20: First Steps On The Net
IRST STEPS ON THE Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the Internet (see Internet Security Offer on page 15 and Security on page 28). An comprehensive Internet security program is proposed when you first start your computer.
Page 21: Network Connections
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 22 Diagram of a working network 1. Access point/router 2. Desktop computer 3. Modem 4. Printer 5. Portable computer 6. PDA/Smartphone 7. Network cables (RJ45) ➊ ➐ Ad-Hoc internet sharing The Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) feature of Microsoft Windows allows you to share a single Internet connection with multiple computers.
Page 23: Surf The Net
Surf the Net! To surf the Internet, you need a program called an Internet browser. Internet Explorer provides an easy and secure web browsing experience. As soon as you have your Internet access installed and you are connected, click on the Internet Explorer shortcut located on the Windows desktop and take your Internet experience to a new level! Internet Explorer features The image below shows the Internet Explorer browser’s start page.
Page 24 manually organise your files. Google Desktop also helps you gather new information from the Internet with Sidebar and Google Gadgets, visually appealing mini-applications that can display anything such as your new email, the local weather forecast to personalised news. With Google Desktop, you get personalised information when you want it, right on your computer’s desktop.
Page 25: Helpdesk
ELPDESK OMPUTING To make the most of your new computer and ensure it runs smoothly for a long time, you should use the programs below and regularly perform the actions described in this guide. Maintenance Recommended maintenance tasks There are several tasks you should perform periodically (about once per month) to ensure your computer stays in good health: Error Checking Using the Check Disk tool regularly prevents your system from getting unreliable and information getting lost.
Page 26 1. Perform a Disk Cleanup and close all open programs. 2. Click on Start > Computer. Right-click on the OS icon and select Properties. 3. Click on Tools and Defragment now..4. Click on the volume you want to defragment and click on Defragment to start.
Page 27 Windows System Restore. System Restore monitors the changes to your computer and automatically creates restore points to revert to a previous time if necessary. It can undo harmful changes to your computer and restore its settings and performance, while saving your personal data files (such as documents, browsing history, drawings, favourites, or emails).
Page 28: Updates
1. Click on Restore my computer to an earlier time, and then click on Next. 2. Select from the calendar the date when the restore point was created and click on Next. All the restore points that were created on the selected date are listed by name in the list box to the right of the calendar. 3.
Page 29 Definitions What is a Virus? Malicious software, typically called ‘viruses’, are programs designed to infect and damage computers. Most viruses are transmitted over the Internet, emails or malicious Web sites. A typical virus will replicate and pass itself undetected to multiple computers. Other forms of nuisance, such as Trojan horses, worms or spam can infect your computer in various ways, using up resources or clogging up a network.
Page 30 Protect your computer with security software. Several types of security software are necessary for basic online security. Security software essentials include firewall and antivirus programs. A firewall is usually your computer's first line of defense-it controls who and what can communicate with your computer online. You could think of a firewall as a sort of "policeman" that watches all the data attempting to flow in and out of your computer on the Internet, allowing communications that it knows are safe and blocking "bad"...
Page 31 ✓ Pay attention to privacy policies on Web sites and in software. It is important to understand how an organization might collect and use your personal information before you share it with them. ✓ Guard your email address. Spammers and phishers sometimes send millions of messages to email addresses that may or may not exist in hopes of finding a potential victim.
Page 32 Windows Firewall Windows has a firewall that protects your computer when connected to the Internet. It stops programs from accessing the Internet without your permission. Certain program need access to the Internet to function properly, or even function at all. If this is the case, you will usually be asked to allow access when you install a program, or the first time you use it.
Page 33: Windows Remote Assistance
User Account Control The User Accounts control panel can help prevent unauthorized changes to your computer. User Accounts will ask you for permission or an administrator password before performing actions that could potentially affect your computer's operation or that change settings that affect other users.
Page 34: Diagnose & Repair
E L P DE S K & R IAGNOSE EPAIR We all experience problems with our computer from time to time... Before calling the Customer Contact Centre, please read the following. This troubleshooting guide will help you diagnose and solve some common problems. Please note that the solutions proposed in either one of the cases below may not be limited to that specific case and may be used to solve other computer issues.
Page 35 A screen saver may be active. 1. Press a key to reactivate the display. 2. If you wish to change the screen saver properties: a. Close all open programs, with the exception of Windows. b. Right-click on an empty spot on the Windows desktop. c.
Page 36 Check InfoCentre to learn more about your computer. Don’t forget to download your InfoCentre updates! Caution: You should only open your computer if you are an advanced user, or if you are asked to do so by a qualified Gateway technician. The screen freezes when the Gateway logo displays When the computer starts, it first performs a test of all system requirements.
Page 37 Uninstall software. If your computer does not function correctly after you have installed new programs, try uninstalling them. Click on Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Go back to previous restore point with Windows System Restore (see page 27). Disconnect or remove additional devices.
Page 38: Miscellaneous Troubleshooting
Go back to previous restore point with System Restore. System Restore monitors the changes to your computer and automatically creates restore points to revert to a previous time if necessary. It can undo harmful changes to your computer and restore its settings and performance, while saving your personal data files (such as documents, browsing history, drawings, favourites, or emails).
Page 39 second set of cursor keys (on "full-sized" keyboards), or they revert to normal letter keys (on certain compact keyboards). My touchpad does not work 1. Your computer may feature a Touchpad Lock button. The Touchpad Lock button toggles the touchpad on or off to avoid unwanted cursor movements when using the keyboard. Check that this featuree is not active.
Page 40 3. Your computer's volume control settings need adjusting. a. Click on the speaker icon in the Notification Area. b. Click and hold the slider to adjust the volume level. c. Make sure the Mute option is NOT active. d. If necessary, click on Speakers to change the type of audio output (for example, if you are using digital audio over an HDMI cable).
Page 41 6. You have moved and your dialling location has changed. a. Change your settings by clicking on Start > Control Panel. Change the View by: option to Large icons, then select Phone and Modem. b. Specify your new location and any special options for your phone line.
Page 42 Click on the Customize button in the Notification area section. Place a tick in the box in front of Always show all icons and notifications on the taskbar and then OK. c. The Networks connection icon indicates if you have a reliable network connection (either wireless or over a cable).
Page 43 Check that the cables are securely connected to the printer and computer. The printer is not Use a grounded AC power outlet (or power strip). Remember to shut down your connected properly computer and printer before disconnecting or reconnecting any cables. Plug the printer into a different wall socket.
Page 44 Hardware Caution: Gateway strongly recommends that you never change your computer's hardware configuration. Incorrect operations may damage your computer and is not covered by any warranty. You should only open your computer when asked to do so by a qualified Gateway technician. Before purchasing a new hardware device, check that it can be used on your computer.
Page 45: Recovering Your System
ELPDESK ECOVERING YOUR SYSTEM If the troubleshooting steps (page 34) did not help fix your problem, you can run the Gateway Recovery Management program. This will restore your computer to the same state as when you purchased it, while giving you an option to retain all settings and personal data for later retrieval.
Page 46: Returning To A Previous System Condition
3. Click on Contents. A list of software and device drivers opens. 4. Click on the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall. Returning to a previous system condition Microsoft System Restore periodically takes ’snapshots’...
Page 47: Returning Your System To Its Factory Condition
Returning your system to its factory condition If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall everything to return your system to its factory condition. You can reinstall using either your hard drive or the recovery discs you have created.
Page 48: Regulatory Information
EGULATORY NF ORMATION Caution: Wireless devices are not user-serviceable. Do not modify them in any way. Modification to a wireless device will void the authorization to use it. Contact Gateway for service. Caution: The transmitting device embedded in this notebook may not be used with any antenna other than the one provided with the notebook.
Page 49 A telephone line cord with a modular plug is required for use with this device. The modem is designed to be connected to the telephone network or premises wiring using a compatible modular jack which is Part 68- compliant. See installation instructions for details. The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) is used to determine the number of devices which may be connected to the telephone line.
Page 50 CS-03 ( ELECOMMUNICATIONS PER NDUSTRY ANADA FOR PRODUCTS FITTED WITH AN COMPLIANT MODEM The Industry Canada label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the equipment meets certain telecommunications network protective, operation, and safety requirements. The Department does not guarantee the equipment will operate to the users’ satisfaction. Before installing this equipment, users should make sure that it is permissible to be connected to the facilities of the local telecommunications company.
Page 51 EN62311 - Generic standard to demonstrate the compliance of low power electronic and electrical apparatus with the basic restrictions related to human exposure to electromagnetic fields. This product must be used in strict accordance with the regulations and constraints in the country of use. For further information, contact the local office in the country of use.
Page 52 Gateway recommends that you add a ferrite core round clip to each cable connecting your Gateway computer to a hardware device that has not been delivered with your computer. Ferrite reference: 28A-2029 from Steward (two loops) For Ethernet LAN cable, use FTP shielded cables only (cat ≥ 5). During product certification, Gateway used the following cable quality: ...
Page 53: Environment
NVIRONMENT ’ ATEWAY OMMITMENT TO NVIRONMENTAL ROTECTION Environment has been at the heart of our products. Gateway is committed to limit the environmental impact of its products during product lifecycle. Starting at design phase, with a very strict procurement policy, maximum attention is given to electronic components in order to limit their weight in heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium, mercury, etc.
Page 54: Software License
OFTWARE I C E N S E Note: Most of the software applications are already preinstalled on your Gateway computer. They are ready to use or to set up. However, some titles require a CD or DVD to run. You will find these discs in your computer's packaging. Gateway License Agreement (CD and/or DVD Products).
Page 55: Index
NDE X Environment ............53 Epilepsy warning ............ 5 AC Adapter ............. 10, 12 Error checking............25 Aerial ..............12 eSATA..............12 Audio CDs ............18, 40 ExpressCard ............11 Audio ports............12 External hardware devices ........44 Autoplay............... 19 Firewall............
Page 56 Microphone............12 System Restore ..........27, 38 Modem ............20, 41 System tools Multimedia files ............ 18 Disk Cleanup ..........25 Disk Defragmenter ......... 25 Error checking..........25 Network connections ..........21 Windows System Restore ........ 27 Norton Internet Security........28, 30 Task Manager ............

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Gateway EC14 Quick Start Manual

Product Registration

Important Information

Computer Basics

Internet and Software

Helpdesk

Regulatory Information

Environment

Software License

Index

Quick Links

Table of Contents - 1

Troubleshooting

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Summary of Contents for Gateway EC14

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Table of Contents