Gateway FX542X Reference Manual
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Gateway FX542X Reference Manual

Gateway FX542X Reference Manual

Gateway desktop computer reference guide
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Summary of Contents for Gateway FX542X

  • Page 1: Reference Guide

    REFERENCE GUIDE ®...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Accessing your online User Guide ......2 Gateway contact information ......3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity .
  • Page 4 Creating discs ........29 Using the memory card reader .
  • Page 5 Display ..........107 Printing 108 www.gateway.com...
  • Page 6 Technical support ........126 Before calling Gateway Customer Care ... . . 126 Calling Customer Care .

  • Page 7: Chapter 1: About This Reference

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

  • Page 8: About This Guide

    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. For all other computer information, see your online User Guide.

  • Page 9: Gateway Contact Information

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

  • Page 11: Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer

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

  • Page 12: Front

    CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Front Component Icon Optical disc drive Additional drive Memory card reader (optional) 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...
  • Page 13 IEEE 1394 ports USB ports Headphone jack Microphone jack www.gateway.com Description Press this button to turn the power on or off. You can also configure the power button to 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 Case cover thumbscrew Cable lock slot Surround left/right jack Audio in/side speaker jack Ethernet (network) jacks PS/2 mouse port Expansion slot cover thumbscrew Telephone jack (optional)
  • Page 15 Center/subwoofer jack (orange) S/PDIF output jack (optional) Microphone jack (pink) www.gateway.com Description Plug your rear right and left speakers into this jack. This jack is disabled when an audio expansion card is installed. For more information, see audio jacks” on page...
  • Page 16 CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Component Icon Headphone/analog speakers jack (green) -OR- Front speakers jack USB ports IEEE 1394 port PS/2 keyboard port Video card Modem jack (optional) Description This jack is user configurable for one of the following: Headphone: Plug headphones or amplified speakers into this jack (Default).

  • 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

    Setting Up and Getting • 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

    • Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower curve of your spine. You can use a pillow or cushion to provide extra back support. www.gateway.com...

  • 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

    (The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.) If you want, connect a telephone to the PHONE jack on the modem at the back of your computer. www.gateway.com on the back of your computer. on the modem at the back of your computer.

  • 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

    Shut Down. The computer turns off. To completely disconnect all power (such as for servicing internal components), also disconnect the power cord. www.gateway.com (Start), then click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then (power). The computer...

  • 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 click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns on again.

  • Page 27: Using The Keyboard

    Icon Editing buttons Function keys Internet buttons Audio playback buttons Navigation keys www.gateway.com Audio playback buttons Navigation keys Application key Directional keys Description Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste. Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes.

  • Page 28: Elite Multimedia Keyboard Features

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Indicators Windows keys Application key Directional keys Numeric keypad Elite 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.
  • Page 29 Indicators Windows keys Application key Editing buttons Navigation keys Numeric keypad www.gateway.com Description Press this button to activate your computer’s Sleep (power-saving) mode. 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 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 “Customizing” chapter in your online User Guide. For instructions on how to clean the mouse, see www.gateway.com Move the mouse around. If you reach the edge of your mouse pad and need to move the...

  • Page 32: Using Optical Drives

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using optical drives Features Your optical drive has the following basic components: Loading an optical disc To insert an optical disc: Press the eject button on the optical disc drive. label side is facing up. If the disc has two playable sides, place the disc so the name of the side you want to play is facing up.

  • Page 33: 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 this logo... www.gateway.com Your drive type Use your drive for... is... Installing programs, playing audio CDs, and accessing data.

  • Page 34: Playing Discs

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started If your optical drive has this logo... RECORDER Playing discs Playing a CD Important Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer. A standard compact disc (CD) can hold an entire album of digital songs and can be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive.

  • Page 35: Creating Discs

    Playing a Blu-ray Disc Blu-ray Disc is a high-capacity optical disc that can store much more data than a DVD. A dual-layer Blu-ray Disc can hold 50 GB of files, about 23 hours of standard-definition video, or about nine hours of high-definition video. Blu-ray Discs can be played on a Blu-ray-compatible player or a Blu-ray drive-equipped computer.

  • Page 36: Using The Memory Card Reader

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the memory card reader You can use the optional memory card reader to transfer pictures from a digital camera to your computer. You can also use the memory card reader to transfer data between your computer and a device that uses memory cards, such as a PDA, MP3 player, or cellular telephone.

  • Page 37: Adjusting The Volume

    For more information, see keyboard” on page To adjust the volume from Windows: Click slider opens. www.gateway.com Caution Do not remove the memory card or turn off the computer while Important Do not use the remove hardware icon in the taskbar to remove ) on the taskbar.
  • Page 38 CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and down to decrease volume. To mute the volume, click click it again. To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The Volume Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag sliders for individual devices.

  • Page 39: Configuring The Audio Jacks

    If your computer has the Realtek Sound Effect Manager installed, double-click the Sound Effect Manager icon Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the audio jacks for your speaker setup. www.gateway.com “Back” on page Control Panel Hardware and Sound (Start), then click Control Panel on the taskbar.

  • Page 40: Installing A Printer, Scanner, Or Other Device

    CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started 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 and Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports.

  • Page 41: Chapter 4: Advanced Hardware Setup

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

  • Page 42: 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 43 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 44: 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 45: Setting Up Raid

    Dividing up files between multiple hard drives is called striping. In the following graphic, each letter represents a unique block of data, and each column represents a separate hard drive. www.gateway.com RAID 0...

  • Page 46: 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 47: Raid 5 And 10 For Both Performance And Security

    RAID 10 (also called RAID 1+0 or RAID 1&0) contains sets of RAID 1 mirrors acting as drives within a RAID 0 striping array. With this setup, the array could survive one drive failure in each mirrored array. www.gateway.com RAID 5...

  • Page 48: 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 1 Drawback A RAID 5 array is treated as one drive with the capacity of all but one of the drives added together.

  • Page 49: Configuring Raid

    RAID will remove the operating system, and you will not be able to start your computer into Windows. Press D to delete the array. In this screen, you can also press C to clear (delete all data from) the array. www.gateway.com to exit the utility. Your computer restarts. NTER Caution If your computer has the operating system installed on a RAID, .

  • Page 50: 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 51: Chapter 5: Upgrading Your Computer

    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 52: 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 53: Opening The Case

    Press the power button for ten seconds to drain any residual power from your computer. Remove the security tape (if any) on the rear edge of the side panel. Remove the case cover thumbscrew on the side panel. Thumbscrew www.gateway.com “Preventing static electricity...
  • Page 54 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Lift the cover release lever, then swing the side panel away from the computer.

  • Page 55: 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 56: 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 57: Adding Or Replacing Memory

    To install or replace DIMM memory: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 58 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 59: Adding Or Replacing An Optical Disc Drive

    If you are replacing an existing drive, disconnect the cables from the drive, noting their locations and orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive. www.gateway.com (Start), right-click Computer, then click Important The color and shape of your replacement drive's front cover may...
  • Page 60 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the drive thumbscrew from the optical drive. 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. Drive thumbscrew...

  • Page 61: Replacing The Memory Card Reader

    Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in “Removing the front bezel” on page Disconnect the memory card reader cables, noting their locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new memory card reader.) www.gateway.com...
  • Page 62 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the thumbscrew holding the card reader in the drive bay. 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 63: Adding Or Replacing A Hard Drive

    - OR - If you are replacing an existing drive, go to the next step. Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive.) www.gateway.com SATA power cable SATA data cable...
  • Page 64 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 65: Replacing The Front Fan

    To replace the front fan: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page Remove the fan cover by holding cables out of the way and pulling the cover away from the computer. www.gateway.com “Recovering your system” 118.
  • Page 66 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. Remove the fan mount by pressing in on the flat area (1) near the front, then rotating the fan mount (2) back.
  • Page 67 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 68: 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 69 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 70: Replacing The Power Supply

    CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the power supply Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver and a Torx replace the power supply. A slotted (flat) screwdriver can be used in place of the Torx driver, but it must be the 7/64" (3 mm) size, and you must be very careful while applying torque so that the screw head does not get stripped.

  • Page 71: Replacing The Heat Sink And Processor

    For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface. Remove the fan cover by holding cables out of the way and pulling the cover away from the computer. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 72 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.) bottom of it. Use caution when you remove the old heat sink or unpack the new heat sink so you do not damage the TIM.

  • Page 73: Replacing The I/O Board

    You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the I/O board. To replace the front I/O board: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in “Removing the front bezel” on page www.gateway.com...
  • Page 74 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the screw that secures the front I/O assembly to the computer, then remove the I/O assembly. 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 75: 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 from the illustrations below. Loosen the thumbscrew on the expansion card cover. www.gateway.com Important Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary...
  • Page 76 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 77 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 78: 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 79: Replacing The System Board

    Remove the expansion cards by following the instructions in on page to loosen it, but do not bend a card sideways. www.gateway.com Caution Make sure that you do not damage any nearby components while “Adding or replacing an expansion card”...
  • Page 80 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 81 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. (These screws cannot be completely removed.) Disconnect the power and data cables from the system board, noting their locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new board.)
  • Page 82 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer Remove the seven system board 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 83 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 84 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 (Front) IEEE1394 Place the heat sink over the processor, then tighten the screws that secure it to the system board. Align the notches on the memory modules with the notches on the memory module banks and press the modules firmly into the banks.
  • Page 85 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 86 CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer...

  • Page 87: Chapter 6: Maintaining Your Computer

    Maintaining Your • 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 CHAPTER6 Computer...

  • Page 88: 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 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 Clean computer case and...

  • Page 89: Caring For Your Computer

    Do not block the ventilation fan slots. If these slots are blocked, your computer may overheat, resulting in unexpected shutdown or permanent damage to the computer. • When storing your computer for an extended period of time, unplug AC power. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 90: 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 91: Cleaning The Keyboard

    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. To clean the mouse: • Wipe the bottom of the mouse with a damp, lint-free cloth. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 92: 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 93: Using Bigfix

    To fix the problem, click on that icon to open BigFix. To start BigFix: Click Tools, then click BigFix. To learn more about BigFix, click Help, then click Tutorial. www.gateway.com (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System...

  • Page 94: 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: Click window opens.

  • Page 95: Deleting Unnecessary Files

    Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space. To delete unnecessary files: Disk Cleanup Click Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup Options dialog box opens. www.gateway.com Shortcut Start Computer right-click drive (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Properties...

  • Page 96: 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 97: Defragmenting The Hard Drive

    Because defragmenting a drive may take hours to complete (depending on the size of the drive being defragmented), consider starting the process when you will not need the computer for several hours. www.gateway.com Important Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used,...

  • Page 98: Backing Up Files

    CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer To defragment the hard drive: Disconnect your computer from the network. Click 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 99 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 100: 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 101: Moving From Your Old Computer

    Click Next, click Start a new transfer, then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer. click Help and Support. Type transferring files in the Search Help box, then press E www.gateway.com (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Help For more information about transferring files, click Start, then...

  • Page 102: 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 103: 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 104 CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer...

  • Page 105: Chapter 7: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting • Safety guidelines • Try these steps first • Error messages • Internet and networking • Power • Display • Printing • Optical discs • Memory card reader • Mouse • Keyboard • Files • Memory • Audio • Passwords •...

  • Page 106: Safety Guidelines

    Safety guidelines While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines: Warning To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your computer problem if: • Power cords or plugs are damaged • Liquid has been spilled into your computer • Your computer was dropped •...

  • Page 107: Error Messages

    “Unable to locate host” “Download Error” “Memory error” “Not enough memory” www.gateway.com Action “You get an “Insufficient disk space” error message” on page “You get a “Data error” message” on page 112. “The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you see a “General failure reading drive...

  • Page 108: Internet And Networking

    Internet and networking Internet If you do not find a solution to your problem in this section, the issue may be networking related. See page 106 for more information. You cannot connect to the Internet • If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that the modem cable is securely plugged into the Ethernet network jack.

  • Page 109: Modem (Cable Or Dsl)

    My computer cannot connect to the Internet. • Make sure that your modem is connected to the network jack. • See the documentation that came with your modem for additional troubleshooting information. • Contact your modem manufacturer for technical support. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 110: Modem (Dial-Up)

    Modem (dial-up) See also “Internet and networking” on page Your modem does not dial or does not connect • Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet or the PHONE network jack. •...
  • Page 111 You cannot connect to the Internet • The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact your ISP for technical support. • Review the troubleshooting information under and networking” on page Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public telephone lines to 53K.

  • Page 112: Networking

    Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker volume control. Click OK twice to close the dialog boxes. Networking For more information, see the Networking chapter in your User Guide. You cannot see the other computers on your network • If a network cable is connected to your computer, make sure that the other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub, or other network device.

  • Page 113: Power

    Connect a display that you know works (such as a monitor from another computer) to your computer. If the display still works, the original monitor is faulty. If the display does not work, either the computer’s video card (if installed) is faulty or the on-board video is faulty. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 114: Printing

    The color is not uniform • Make sure that the display warms up for at least 30 minutes before making a final judgment about color uniformity. The text on the display is dim or difficult to read • Adjust the brightness and contrast controls. •...

  • Page 115: Optical Discs

    • Make sure that the disc is label side up, and make sure that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For information on cleaning the disc, see discs” on page www.gateway.com 117. “Cleaning optical “Checking “Cleaning optical...

  • Page 116: Memory Card Reader

    • The regional code of the movie disc may not match your drive’s regional code. Play only discs with a regional code for your region. The DVD regional code for the United States and Canada is 1, and the regional code for Mexico is 4.

  • Page 117: Keyboard

    Save your files to another drive. If the hard drive is full, copy any files not regularly used to backup media, then delete them from the hard drive. www.gateway.com Help For more information about file management, click Start, then NTER Caution All deleted files will be lost when you empty the Recycle Bin.
  • Page 118 A file was accidentally deleted • If a file was deleted while holding down the S or if the Recycle Bin has been emptied since the file was deleted, the file cannot be restored. To restore deleted files: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. Right-click the file you want to restore, then click Restore.

  • Page 119: Memory

    Run the Memory Diagnostic Tool. Click Memory Diagnostic Tool, Restart now and check for problems. Your computer restarts and runs the memory diagnostics. www.gateway.com (Start) then click Computer. The Computer Important Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used.

  • Page 120: Audio

    You see a “Not enough memory” error message • Close all programs, then restart your computer. • If you continue to receive this error message, consider adding more memory to your computer. Audio You are not getting sound from the speakers •...

  • Page 121: Expansion Cards

    A/V cables (basic) • S-Video (fair, but not optimized for computer video display) • VGA (good) • DVI (better) • HDMI (best) • Quality of video cables—Poor quality video cables can cause problems. Gateway recommends using high-quality video cables. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 122 • Screen resolution—Many TVs cannot display the high resolution that your computer’s video signal uses, and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the computer’s screen resolution to 800 × 600 or 640 × 480. For more information about changing the screen resolution, see your online User Guide.

  • Page 123: Checking For Device Problems

    Properties and examine the information within each of the tabs. Write down this information for future reference and troubleshooting. It may also be useful information to have available if you call Customer Care. www.gateway.com (Start), type device manager, then press . Device Manager opens.

  • Page 124: Recovering Your System

    Problem solving may also involve reinstalling 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. Caution To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you should create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible.

  • Page 125: Creating Recovery Discs

    To create recovery discs for only the factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create driver and application backup disc. as possible. www.gateway.com (Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click Important We recommend that you create each type of recovery disc as soon...
  • Page 126 The Create Backup Disc dialog box opens. This dialog box tells you the number of blank, recordable discs you will need to complete the recovery discs. Make sure that you have the required number of identical, blank discs ready before continuing. Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the Burn to list, then click Next.

  • Page 127: Recovering Pre-Installed Software And Drivers

    - OR - If you are recovering from your driver and application recovery disc, insert it into the disc drive, then go to Step 3 after the Gateway Application Recovery main menu opens. Click the Restore tab, then click Reinstall applications/drivers.

  • Page 128: Returning To A Previous System Condition

    Click Contents. A list of software and device drivers opens. Click the install icon 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” of your system settings and saves them as restore points.

  • Page 129: Returning Your System To Its Factory Condition

    • If you cannot run Windows Vista and your original hard drive has been completely re-formatted or you have installed a replacement hard drive, see your recovery discs” on page www.gateway.com 124. “Recovering from the hard drive 125. 125. “Recovering from...
  • Page 130 Click OK. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. This process may take a while, but a Gateway Recovery Management screen shows you its progress. When the recovery has finished, a dialog box prompts you to restart your computer.
  • Page 131 To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software and drivers: Turn on your computer, then press A startup. Gateway Recovery Management opens. Click Restore system from factory default. Caution Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.

  • Page 132: Technical Support

    For the contact number, see your setup poster. The label on top 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. CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting...

  • Page 133: Appendix A: Legal Notices

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

  • Page 134: 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 135: 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 136: 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 137: 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 138: 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 139 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 140: 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 141: 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 142 APPENDIX A: Legal Notices...

  • Page 143: Index

    Index AC power connector accessories safety precautions activity indicators See indicators application buttons application key arrow keys audio audio in jack center speaker jack configuring jacks front speaker jack headphone jack line in jack line out jack microphone jack muting rear speaker jack recording S/PDIF jack...
  • Page 144 replacing See also optical drive troubleshooting cellular phone memory cards Certificate of Authenticity cleaning audio CD case computer screen keyboard LCD panel mouse screen cleaning CRT screen clicking closing computer case front bezel unresponsive program CompactFlash configuring audio jacks speakers connecting cable modem dial-up modem...
  • Page 145 DVD drive adding identifying replacing See also optical drive troubleshooting www.gateway.com editing buttons electrostatic discharge (ESD) ergonomics Error-checking Ethernet jack Ethernet network connecting jack expansion card adding replacing external audio jack replacing...
  • Page 146 Support Gateway Recovery Center re-installing drivers re-installing programs re-installing software hard drive adding backing up files checking for errors checking for free space defragmenting deleting files and folders replacing scanning for errors troubleshooting headphone jack heat sink replacing...
  • Page 147 Task Scheduler media reader See memory card reader memory adding installing replacing troubleshooting memory card reader inserting card locating memory card types www.gateway.com removing card replacing using Memory Stick microphone jack Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity model number modem cable connecting...
  • Page 148 multimedia adjusting volume playing Blu-ray playing DVD using Windows Media Player MultiMediaCard muting sound navigation keys network jack troubleshooting numeric keypad indicator opening computer case files folders front bezel programs shortcut menu optical connection optical drive eject button eject hole indicator inserting disc using...
  • Page 149 RAID 5 See memory rebooting computer recordable drive recording audio files optical discs recovering defaults drivers programs software system with Gateway Recovery Center with Windows System Restore re-installing defaults drivers programs software Windows with Gateway Recovery Center with Windows System...
  • Page 150 sound adjusting controls muting speaker jack speakers configuring Standby mode starting computer programs starting computer static electricity surge protector system battery replacing system board replacing system identification label Task Schdeuler techinal support Support technical support tips before contacting telephone support transferring files from old computer settings from old computer...
  • Page 151 Windows Easy Transfer Windows key Windows System Restore Windows Update wired Ethernet troubleshooting working safely Zip drive...
  • Page 152 Index...
  • Page 154 MAN BTX FX EREC HW REF GDE R0 5/08...

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