Acer Aspire Z3-105 User Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Acer Manuals
  4. Desktop
  5. Aspire Z3-105
  6. User manual

Acer Aspire Z3-105 User Manual

User manual (windows 8.1)
Hide thumbs Also See for Aspire Z3-105:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

- 1
Aspire All-in-one Computer
User's Manual

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Frequently Asked Questions (14)

  • Why is my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop not turning on?

    If the computer does not start or boot up, check the power indicator:

    • If the power indicator is not lit, no power is being supplied. Check the following:
      • If using on battery, it may be low. Connect the AC adapter to recharge.
      • Ensure the AC adapter is properly plugged into the computer and the power outlet.
    • If the power indicator is lit, check the following:
      • Remove any disc from the optical drive and press Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart.
      • Unplug any USB storage device and press Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart.

    For more information, see page 39 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • How do I factory reset my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    You can factory reset your Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop using Acer Recovery Management. This process will delete everything on your hard drive and reinstall Windows and all pre-installed software and drivers. Before proceeding, it is important to back up all data files. To perform a factory reset:

    1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps.
    2. Click Restore Factory Settings.
    3. The "Reset your PC" window opens. Click Next.
    4. Choose how to erase your files:
      • Just remove my files quickly erases files before restoring your computer (takes about 30 minutes).
      • Fully clean the drive completely cleans the drive, preventing files from being viewed after recovery (takes up to 5 hours).
    5. Click Reset.

    For more information, see pages 16 and 17 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • Where can I find and download drivers for my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    You can find pre-installed drivers and applications by using Acer Recovery Management. From Start, type 'Recovery' and click Acer Recovery Management, then click Reinstall Drivers or Applications. If you are reinstalling from a Drivers and Applications Backup on a DVD or USB drive, insert the backup media and open the Acer Resource Center (if it doesn't start automatically, press Windows key + <E> and double-click the drive icon). Click the install icon for the item you want to install and follow the onscreen instructions.

    Was this helpful?
  • What causes a black screen on my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop and how can I fix it?

    If nothing appears on the screen, the computer's power management system may have automatically blanked the screen to save power. Press any key to turn the display back on. If this doesn't work, check the following:

    • The brightness level might be too low. Press <Fn> + < > to adjust it.
    • The display device might be set to an external monitor. Press the display toggle hotkey <Fn> + <F5> to switch the display back to the computer.
    • If the power LED is flashing, the computer may be in Sleep or Hibernate mode. Press and release the power button to resume.

    For more information, see page 39 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • Why is there no sound coming from my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    If there is no audio from the computer, check the following:

    • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and deselect the Mute all option.
    • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. You can also use the volume control buttons to adjust the volume.
    • If headphones, earphones or external speakers are connected to the headphone jack, the internal speakers automatically turn off.

    For more information, see page 40 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • How do I reset a forgotten password on my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    If you forget your Supervisor Password for the BIOS utility, you must contact your dealer or an authorized service center. If you fail to enter a password correctly after three tries, the system halts. You should press and hold the power button for four seconds to shut down the computer, then turn it on again and try again.

    Was this helpful?
  • How do I connect an external monitor to my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    To connect an external monitor:

    1. Ensure the computer and monitor are powered off.
    2. Attach the video cable to the monitor port on the computer and secure the connection.
    3. Connect the monitor power cable and plug it into a grounded wall outlet.
    4. Follow any setup instructions in the monitor's user's guide.
    5. Turn on power to the monitor, then the computer.
    6. Ensure the current resolution and refresh rate do not exceed the monitor's specifications. If needed, change the display settings by pressing the Windows key + W, typing "Display," and clicking on Display.

    For more information, see page 35 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • How do I wake up my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop from sleep mode?

    If the power LED is flashing, indicating the computer is in Sleep or Hibernate mode, press and release the power button to resume. You can also put the computer into sleep mode by pressing the sleep hotkey <Fn> + <F4>.

    Was this helpful?
  • How do I adjust the screen brightness on my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    If the screen brightness level is too low, press <Fn> + < > to increase the brightness level.

    Was this helpful?
  • Why is the keyboard not working on my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    If the keyboard does not respond, try attaching an external keyboard to a USB port. If the external keyboard works, contact your dealer or an authorized service center, as the internal keyboard cable may be loose. If a "Keyboard error or no keyboard connected" message appears, contact your dealer or service center.


    For more information, see pages 40 and 51 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • What operating system versions are compatible with the Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    The manual covers "All-in-one models (non-touch)" and provides tips for using Windows 8.1. Acer Recovery Management is only available with a pre-installed Windows operating system.


    For more information, see pages 2, 8 and 43 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • How do I restart my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    To restart your computer, if a disc is in the optical drive or a USB storage device is plugged in, remove it and press Ctrl + Alt + Del.

    Was this helpful?
  • What types of ports are available on the Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    The Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop may feature various ports and connectors, though availability can vary by model. These include:

    • Power button
    • Microphone jack
    • Speaker or headphone jack
    • USB port (including USB 3.0, which are blue and compatible with USB 3.0 and earlier devices)
    • RJ-45 Ethernet connector
    • Line-out / speaker-out jack
    • Kensington lock slot
    • DC-in jack
    • Shutdown pinhole
    • Optical drive
    • Card reader
    • S/PDIF port
    • Line-in jack
    • HDMI port
    • Network / hard disk drive indicators
    • DisplayPort
    • Webcam
    • Audio combo-jack

    For more information, see page 31 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
  • What are the best practices for cleaning the screen and vents of my Acer Aspire Z3-105 desktop?

    When cleaning the computer, follow these steps:

    1. Turn off the computer.
    2. Disconnect the AC adapter.
    3. Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.

    For more information, see page 7 of the manual.
    Was this helpful?
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Aspire Z3-105 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Acer Aspire Z3-105

Summary of Contents for Acer Aspire Z3-105

  • Page 1 Aspire All-in-one Computer User’s Manual...

  • Page 2: Acer Id/Remote Files

    This revision: October 2013 Sign up for an Acer ID and enable Acer Remote Files Open the Acer Portal from the Start screen to sign up for an Acer ID or sign in if you already have an Acer ID.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents - 3 A B L E O F C O N T E N T S First things first Rear panel audio ports......32 Your guides ..........5 Memory card reader Basic care and tips for using your Connectivity options.......

  • Page 4: Getting Started

    Getting started... In this section you will find: • Useful information on caring for your computer and your health • How to create recovery backups • Guidelines for connecting to a network • Information on using Acer’s bundled software...

  • Page 5: First Things First

    We would like to thank you for making this Acer desktop computer your choice for meeting your computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer desktop computer, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup Guide helps you get started with setting up your computer.

  • Page 6: Taking Care Of Your Computer

    6 - First things first You can also put the computer in sleep mode by pressing the sleep hotkey <Fn> + <F4>. Note If you cannot power off the computer normally, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to shut down the computer. If you turn off the computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two seconds before powering up.

  • Page 7: Cleaning And Servicing

    First things first - 7 cord. Also, the total current rating of all equipment plugged into a single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating. Cleaning and servicing When cleaning the computer, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the computer. 2.

  • Page 8: Recovery

    Windows tools, or the recovery backup. Note Acer Recovery Management is only available with a pre-installed Windows operating system. Important We recommend that you create a Recovery Backup and Drivers and Applications Backup and as soon as possible.
  • Page 9 Recovery - 9 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Create Factory Default Backup. The Recovery Drive window opens. Make sure Copy contents from the recovery partition to the recovery drive is selected.

  • Page 10: Creating A Drivers And Applications Backup

    10 - Recovery • Since the recovery backup requires at least 16 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 32 GB or larger. 4. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 5.
  • Page 11 USB storage drive or, if your computer features a DVD recorder, one or more blank recordable DVDs. 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Create Drivers and Applications Backup.

  • Page 12: Recovering Your System

    12 - Recovery with a permanent marker. If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc when prompted, then click OK. Continue until the process is complete. • If you are using a USB drive, unplug the drive and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on each backup, such as 'Drivers and Applications Backup'.

  • Page 13: Reinstalling Drivers And Applications

    If you are reinstalling using Windows and the recovery information stored on your computer: 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Reinstall Drivers or Applications.
  • Page 14 1. Insert the Drivers and Applications Backup into the disc drive or connect it to a free USB port. • If you inserted a DVD wait for Acer Resource Center to start. • If Acer Resource Center does not start automatically, press the Windows key + <E>, then double-click on the optical drive...

  • Page 15: Returning To An Earlier System Snapshot

    Recovery - 15 2. You should see the Contents section of the Acer Resource Center. Images for reference only. 3. Click the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall.

  • Page 16: Returning Your System To Its Factory Condition

    Recovering from a recovery backup on page Recovering from Windows Start Acer Recovery Management: • From Start, type ’Recovery’ and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. Two options are available, Restore Factory Settings (Reset my PC) or Customized Restore (Refresh my PC).
  • Page 17 Recovery - 17 the Windows Store). See Customized Restore with Acer Recovery Management on page Restore Factory Settings with Acer Recovery Management 1. Click Restore Factory Settings. Important ’Restore Factory Settings’ will erase all files on your hard drive. 2. The Reset your PC window opens.
  • Page 18 18 - Recovery 5. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. 6. After the recovery has finished, you can start using your computer by repeating the first-start process. Recovering from the hard drive during startup 1.

  • Page 19: Recovering From A Recovery Backup

    Recovery - 19 Customized Restore with Acer Recovery Management 1. Click Customized Restore (Retain User Data). 2. The Refresh your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 3. Click Next, then Refresh. 4. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive.
  • Page 20 20 - Recovery b. Use the left or right arrow keys to select the Main menu. c. Press the down key until F12 Boot Menu is selected, press <F5> to change this setting to Enabled. d. Use the left or right arrow keys to select the Exit menu. e.
  • Page 21 Recovery - 21 Reset your PC from the recovery backup Important Reset your PC will erase all files on your hard drive. 1. The Reset your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 2. Click Next. 3. Select the operating system to recover (normally only one option is available).
  • Page 22 22 - Recovery Refresh your PC from the recovery backup 1. The Refresh your PC window opens. 2. Click Next. 3. Select the operating system to recover (normally only one option is available). 4. Click Refresh. 5. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive.

  • Page 23: Connecting To The Internet

    Connecting to the Internet - 23 O N N E C T I N G T O TH E N T E R N E T Note Information in this section may not apply to your computer. This chapter includes basic information on types of connections, and getting connected to the Internet.
  • Page 24 24 - Keeping your computer and data safe... In this section you will find: • How to secure your computer • Setting passwords...

  • Page 25: Bios Utility

    BIOS utility - 25 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 26: Securing Your Computer

    26 - 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. Using passwords Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access.
  • Page 27 Securing your computer - 27 • Type the User Password and press <Enter> to use the computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press <Enter>. Important You have three chances to enter a password. If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the system halts.

  • Page 28: Power Management

    28 - 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 29 Power management - 29 5. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.

  • Page 30: Ports And Connectors

    30 - Ports and connectors... In this section you will find: • Information on the ports and connectors fitted to your computer...

  • Page 31: Ports And Connectors

    Ports and connectors - 31 O R T S A N D C O N N E C T O R S The tables below indicate what the different icons represent. Note The ports and connectors listed below may not be available on all models. Icon Item Icon...

  • Page 32: Rear Panel Audio Ports

    32 - Ports and connectors • Defined by the USB 3.0 specification (SuperSpeed USB). Rear panel audio ports The table below indicates the functions of the audio jacks on the rear panel (if available). Icon color Headset Stereo Quadrophonic 5.1-channel Blue Rear Rear...

  • Page 33: Memory Card Reader

    Memory card reader - 33 E M O R Y C A R D R E A D E R Connectivity options Your computer has a card reader and other ports/jacks that allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section.
  • Page 34 34 - Memory card reader (2 TB). Your computer provides an SDHC or SDXC compatible card reader. Note SDXC memory cards can only be used in an SDXC-compatible reader; SD and SDHC cards can be used in either type. Removing a card from a memory card reader 1.

  • Page 35: Video And Audio Connectors

    Video and audio connectors - 35 I D E O A N D A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Connect to a monitor with a VGA or DVI port (the type of connection supported depends your...

  • Page 36: Hdmi

    36 - 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 37: Universal Serial Bus (Usb)

    Note Two USB standards are currently available on Acer computers: USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) and USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.0 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.0 devices should always be plugged into USB 3.0 ports.
  • Page 38 38 - Got a question? In this section you will find: • Frequently asked questions • Tips for using Windows 8.1 • Troubleshooting information • How to protect yourself while online • Where to find Acer service center contact information...

  • Page 39: Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently asked questions - 39 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 40 40 - Frequently asked questions • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and deselect the Mute all option. • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar.

  • Page 41: Requesting Service

    2. Make sure the D2D Recovery setting in Main is Enabled. 3. Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot. Note To activate the BIOS utility, press <F2> when you see the Acer logo during boot up. For detailed information on the recovery process,...
  • Page 42 42 - Frequently asked questions If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide. Please visit www.acer.com. Before you call Please have the following information available when you call Acer for online service, and please be at your computer when you call.

  • Page 43: Tips And Hints For Using Windows 8.1

    F r e qu e nt ly a sk Frequently asked questions - 43 Tips and hints for using Windows 8.1 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;...

  • Page 44: Can I Boot Directly To The Desktop

    44 - Frequently asked questions Can I boot directly to the desktop? Yes, you can, just follow these steps: 1. Go to the desktop. 2. Right-click the taskbar and select Properties from the menu that opens. 3. From the Navigation tab, check Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in.

  • Page 45: How Do I Personalize My Computer

    Frequently asked questions - 45 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, move your cursor to the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click Settings >...
  • Page 46 46 - Frequently asked questions How do I set the alarm? Your computer can act as an alarm clock. Start typing ’Alarms’ to search for the Alarms app. 1. Set the time using the sliders on the left-hand side of the screen. 2.

  • Page 47: Where Are My Apps

    Frequently asked questions - 47 Can I make tiles bigger or smaller? Right-click anywhere on Start to open the Customize menu, click the tile(s) you wish to resize and click Resize. Select a size from the menu that appears. How do I close an app? Move your cursor to the top of the screen.

  • Page 48: What Is A Microsoft Id (Account)

    48 - Frequently asked questions How do I install apps? You can download Windows Store apps from Store. You will need to have a Microsoft ID to purchase and download apps from Store. I can't find apps like Notepad and Paint! Where are they? Move your cursor to the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click Search, type the name of the app you would like to open using the pop-up keyboard.

  • Page 49: How Do I Add A Favorite To Internet Explorer

    Settings > Change PC settings > Update & recovery > Windows Update. Click Check now. Where can I get more information? For more information please visit the following pages: • Windows 8 and 8.1 tutorials: www.acer.com/windows8-tutorial • Support FAQs: support.acer.com...

  • Page 50: Troubleshooting

    R E Q U E N T LY 50 - 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. Do not attempt to open the computer yourself;...
  • Page 51 Frequently asked questions - 51 Error messages Corrective action 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. Press <F2> (during POST) to enter the BIOS Memory size utility, then press Exit in the BIOS utility to mismatch...

  • Page 52: Internet And Online Security

    52 - 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 Internet (see Security on page 56).

  • Page 53: Network Connections

    Internet and online security - 53 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 54 54 - Internet and online security Wireless networks A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network, which may link two or more computers without using wires. Setting up a wireless network is easy and allows you to share files, peripheral devices and an Internet connection.

  • Page 55: Surf The Net

    Internet experience to a new level! Acer website To get you started why not visit our website, www.acer.com. Acer is dedicated to provide you with on-going personalied support. Check out our Support section to get help tailored to your needs.

  • Page 56: Security

    Note Acer guarantees that your computer was 100% virus free at the time of purchase and does not cover damages due to viruses. What is spyware? Spyware refers to generally unwanted programs that are downloaded onto your computer while connected to the Internet, often without you knowing it.
  • Page 57 Internet and online security - 57 Spyware is sometimes used by unscrupulous companies to monitor and track the sites you visit on the Internet so as to determine your web-surfing habits and display targeted pop-up ads on your screen. However, some kinds of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture passwords, posing a serious security risk.
  • Page 58 58 - Internet and online security By regularly updating your computer, you block attackers from being able to take advantage of software flaws (vulnerabilities) that they could otherwise use to break into your system. While keeping your computer up-to-date will not protect you from all attacks, it makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to your system, blocks many basic and automated attacks completely, and might be enough to discourage less-determined attackers, so...
  • Page 59 Internet and online security - 59 A complete version of McAfee Internet Security Suite is pre-installed on your Acer system. It includes a free trial subscription to protection updates. Make sure you Activate it! Choose strong passwords and keep them safe Passwords are a fact of life on the Internet today;...
  • Page 60 60 - Internet and online security addresses that are entirely numbers where there are normally words, and anything else out of the ordinary. Additionally, phishing messages will often tell you that you have to act quickly to keep your account open, update your security, or urge you to provide information immediately or else something bad will happen.
  • Page 61 Internet and online security - 61 secret investment tricks sure to make you untold fortunes, and contests that you've surprisingly won without entering are the enticing hooks used by companies to grab your attention. While you may not directly pay for the software or service with money, the free software or service you asked for may have been bundled with advertising software ("adware") that tracks your behavior and displays unwanted advertisements.
  • Page 62 62 - Internet and online security How do I know when my computer is at risk? If the Action Center reports an alert, or if your computer behaves erratically, crashes unexpectedly or if some of your programs do not work correctly, your computer may be infected by malicious software. 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...

  • Page 63: Playing Blu-Ray Or Dvd Movies

    Playing Blu-Ray or DVD movies - 63 D V D L A Y IN G A Y O R MO VIES If your computer is equipped with a Blu-Ray or DVD drive, you can play movies on your computer or on a high-definition TV via the HDMI port.

This manual is also suitable for:

Aspire z3-610Aspire zc-105Aspire zc-602Veriton n seriesAspire all-in-one computerAspire e 17 ... Show all

Table of Contents

Save PDF