Page 3
Preface Notice The company reserves the right to revise this publication or to change its contents without notice. Information contained herein is for reference only and does not constitute a commitment on the part of the manufacturer or any subsequent vendor. They assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this publication nor are they in anyway responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use (or misuse) of this publication.
Page 4
Preface R&TTE Directive This device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the R&TTE Direc- tive 1999/5/EC. This device will be sold in the following EEA countries: Austria, Italy, Belgium, Liechtenstein, Denmark, Lux- embourg, Finland, Netherlands, France, Norway, Germany, Portugal, Greece, Spain, Iceland, Sweden, Ireland, United Kingdom, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Slovakia, Poland, Slov- enia.
Preface FCC Statement (Federal Communications Commission) You are cautioned that changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Preface FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement: This Transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. This equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 centimeters between the radiator and your body.
Preface IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Follow basic safety precautions, including those listed below, to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons when using any electrical equipment: Do not use this product near water, for example near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool.
Preface Instructions for Care and Operation The notebook computer is quite rugged, but it can be damaged. To prevent this, follow these suggestions: Don’t drop it, or expose it to shock. If the computer falls, the case and the components could be damaged. Do not expose the computer Do not place it on an unstable Do not place anything heavy...
Page 9
Preface Avoid interference. Keep the computer away from high capacity transformers, electric motors, and other strong magnetic fields. These can hinder proper performance and damage your data. Follow the proper working procedures for the computer. Shut the computer down properly and don’t forget to save your work.
Preface Power Safety The computer has specific power requirements: • Only use a power adapter approved for use with this computer. • Your AC/DC adapter may be designed for international travel but it still requires a steady, Power Safety uninterrupted power supply.
Preface Polymer Battery Precautions Note the following information which is specific to polymer batteries only, and where applicable, this overrides the general battery precaution information overleaf. • Polymer batteries may experience a slight expansion or swelling, however this is part of the battery’s safety mecha- nism and is not a cause for concern.
Preface Battery Precautions • Only use batteries designed for this computer. The wrong battery type may explode, leak or damage the computer. • Do not remove any batteries from the computer while it is powered on. • Do not continue to use a battery that has been dropped, or that appears damaged (e.g. bent or twisted) in any way. Even if the computer continues to work with a damaged battery in place, it may cause circuit damage, which may possibly result in fire.
Preface Cleaning Do not apply cleaner directly to the computer; use a soft clean cloth. Do not use volatile (petroleum distillates) or abrasive cleaners on any part of the computer. Servicing Do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Doing so may violate your warranty and expose you and the computer to electric shock.
Preface Travel Considerations Packing As you get ready for your trip, run through this list to make sure the system is ready to go: Check that the battery pack and any spares are fully charged. Power off the computer and peripherals. Close the display panel and make sure it’s latched.
Page 15
Preface On the Road In addition to the general safety and maintenance suggestions in this preface, and Chapter 8: Troubleshooting, keep these points in mind: Hand-carry the notebook - For security, don’t let it out of your sight. In some areas, computer theft is very common.
Page 16
Preface Developing Good Work Habits Developing good work habits is important if you need to work in front of the computer for long periods of time. Improper work habits can result in discomfort or serious injury from repetitive strain to your hands, wrists or other joints.
Preface Lighting Proper lighting and a comfortable viewing angle can reduce eye strain and shoulder and neck muscle fatigue. • Position the display to avoid glare or reflections from overhead lighting or outside sources of light. • Keep the display screen clean and set the brightness and contrast to levels that allow you to see the screen clearly. •...
Preface Contents Notice ................................I FCC Statement ............................III FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement: ....................IV ErP Off Mode Power Consumption Statement: ..................IV Instructions for Care and Operation ......................VI Power Safety ............................VIII Polymer Battery Precautions ........................IX Battery Precautions ............................X Cleaning ..............................XI Servicing ..............................XI Travel Considerations ..........................
Page 20
Preface System Startup ............................1-6 LCD Panel Open - Model A ........................1-7 LCD Panel Open - Model B ........................1-8 LCD Panel Closed (Top View) - Model B/D ....................1-9 LCD Panel Open - Model C ........................1-10 LCD Panel Open - Model D ........................1-11 LED Indicators ............................1-12 Illuminated LED Keyboard - Models A, C &...
Page 21
Preface Windows 8.1 Start Screen & Desktop .....................1-31 Apps & Tiles ............................1-32 Desktop Application ..........................1-33 The Charms Bar ............................1-34 Windows 8.1 Control Panel ........................1-36 Windows 8.1 Taskbar ..........................1-39 Video Features ............................1-40 Screen Resolution ............................1-41 Configuring External Displays ........................1-44 Power Options ............................1-45 Running Apps ............................1-46 Storage Devices, Mouse &...
Page 22
Preface Setup for Audio Recording ........................2-10 Clickpad/Touchpad and Buttons/Mouse ....................2-11 Clickpad/Touchpad Sensitivity (Models A, C & D) ................2-12 Illuminated/Non-Illuminated Touchpad Sensitivity (Model B) ..............2-12 Touchpad Configuration for Models A, C & D ..................2-13 Gestures and Device Settings ........................2-14 Touchpad Configuration for Model B .....................2-20 Finger Sensing Pad Configurator ......................2-21 Power Management Overview ..............................3-1...
Page 23
Preface Resuming Operation ..........................3-11 Power Conservation Modes ........................3-12 Battery Information ..........................3-14 Battery Power ............................3-14 Conserving Battery Power ........................3-15 Battery Life ..............................3-16 New Battery .............................3-16 Recharging the Battery with the AC/DC Adapter ...................3-16 Proper handling of the Battery Pack ......................3-17 Battery FAQ .............................3-18 Drivers &...
Page 24
Preface Video (VGA) - AMD ..........................4-6 LAN ................................4-6 Card Reader ...............................4-6 Touchpad (Clickpad) ..........................4-7 Airplane ..............................4-7 Hot Key ..............................4-7 MEI Driver ..............................4-7 Thunderbolt Port ............................4-7 Audio .................................4-7 Optional Drivers ............................4-9 BIOS Utilities Overview ..............................5-1 The Power-On Self Test (POST) .......................5-2 Failing the POST ............................5-3 Fatal Errors ..............................5-3 Non-Fatal Errors ............................5-3...
Page 25
Preface SATA Port # (Main Menu) ........................5-7 System/Extended Memory (Main Menu) ....................5-7 BIOS Revision/ KBC/EC firmware Revision / VGA Card / VBIOS etc. (Main Menu) ......5-7 Advanced Menu ............................5-8 Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology (Advanced Menu) .................5-9 Intel(R) Thunderbolt (Advanced Menu) ....................5-9 Intel(R) Anti-Theft Technology (Advanced Menu) ..................5-9 SATA Mode (Advanced Menu) ......................5-10 Boot Logo (Advanced Menu) ........................5-11...
Page 26
Preface Exit Menu ..............................5-19 Upgrading The Computer Overview ..............................6-1 When Not to Upgrade ..........................6-2 Removing the Battery ..........................6-4 Upgrading the Optical (DVD) Device .......................6-7 Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive(s) ......................6-8 Replacing the Hard Disk Drive Bay Cover .....................6-15 Upgrading the System Memory (RAM) ....................6-16 Replacing the Component Bay Cover .....................6-20 Modules Overview ..............................7-1...
Page 27
Preface Camera App .............................7-14 Camera Options ............................7-15 Taking Pictures/Capturing Video ......................7-16 Camera Roll .............................7-17 Wireless LAN Module ..........................7-21 3rd Party 802.11b/g/n Driver Installation ....................7-22 Intel® WLAN Driver Installation ......................7-22 Qualcomm Atheros WLAN Combo Driver Installation ................7-23 Qualcomm Atheros Killer Network Manager ..................7-24 WLAN Configuration in Windows ......................7-30 Fingerprint Reader Module ........................7-33 AuthenTec Fingerprint Reader Driver Installation ..................7-34...
Page 28
Preface Infineon Security Platform Settings Tool ....................7-48 Sound Blaster Audio ..........................7-56 Sound Blaster X-Fi MB-3 Audio AP Installation ..................7-56 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology ......................7-65 IRST Driver Installation ..........................7-65 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology for RAID Systems ................7-66 RAID Volume Data Verification and Repair ..................7-68 Replacing and Reverting Recovery and Master Volumes ...............7-68 Intel®...
Page 29
Preface Changing the System from AHCI or IDE Mode to RAID Mode ............8-17 Changing the System from RAID to AHCI Mode to IDE Mode ............8-23 Interface (Ports & Jacks) Overview ..............................A-1 Ports and Jacks ............................A-2 Card Reader ..............................A-2 DC-In Jack ..............................A-2 e-SATA/USB 2.0 Port ..........................A-2 HDMI-Out Port ............................A-2 Headphone-Out Jack ..........................A-3...
Page 30
Preface NVIDIA Video Driver Controls NVIDIA Video Driver Installation ......................C-1 NVIDIA Control Panel ..........................C-2 Display Devices ............................C-5 Configuring an External Display (NVIDIA) ....................C-6 Extending the Display ..........................C-7 Multiple Display Connection to HDMI-Out Port & DisplayPort ............C-10 Attaching Other Displays - Devices (Charms Bar) ................C-11 Configuring an External Display In Windows ..................C-12 NVIDIA®...
Page 31
Preface AMD Video Driver Controls AMD Video Driver Installation ........................D-1 AMD Catalyst™ Control Center ......................D-2 Display Devices & Options ........................D-7 Configuring an External Display In the CCC....................D-8 Attaching Other Displays - Devices (Charms Bar) ................D-12 Configuring an External Display In Windows ..................D-13 AMD CrossFireX™...
Page 32
Preface Communication ............................E-4 BIOS ................................. E-5 Security ..............................E-5 Operating System ............................E-5 Design Feature ............................E-5 Indicators ..............................E-5 Power Management ..........................E-5 Power ................................ E-5 Environmental Spec ..........................E-5 Physical Dimensions & Weight ........................ E-5...
Quick Start Guide Chapter 1: Quick Start Guide Overview This Quick Start Guide is a brief introduction to the basic features of your computer, to navigating around the computer and to getting your system started. The remainder of the manual covers the following: •...
Quick Start Guide Advanced Users If you are an advanced user you may skip over most of this Quick Start Guide. However you may find it useful to refer to “Drivers & Utilities” on page 4 - “BIOS Utilities” on page 5 - 1 “Upgrading The Computer”...
Quick Start Guide Not Included Operating Systems (e.g. Windows 8.1) and applications (e.g. word processing, spreadsheet and database pro- grams) have their own manuals, so please consult the appropriate manuals. Drivers If you are installing new system software, or are re-configuring your computer for a different system, you will need to install the drivers listed in “Drivers &...
Quick Start Guide System Software Your computer may already come with system software pre-installed. Where this is not the case, or where you are re-configuring your computer for a different system, you will find the Windows 8.1 operating system is sup- ported.
Quick Start Guide Model Differences This notebook series includes four different model types that mainly differ as indicated in the table below. Note that your model may appear slightly different from those pictured in this manual. Feature Model A Model B Model C Model D 17.3"...
Quick Start Guide System Startup 1. Remove all packing materials, and place the computer on a stable surface. 2. Securely attach any peripherals you want to use with the notebook (e.g. keyboard and mouse) to their ports. 3. Attach the AC/DC adapter to the DC-In jack at the rear of the computer, then plug the AC power cord into an outlet, and connect the AC power cord to the AC/DC adapter.
Quick Start Guide LCD Panel Open - Model A Figure 1 - 2 LCD Panel Open Model A 1. Built-In PC Camera 2. PC Camera LED 3. Built-In Microphone 4. LCD 5. Speakers 6. LED Status Indicators 7. Power Button Note that the Clickpad and 8.
Quick Start Guide LCD Panel Open - Model B Figure 1 - 3 LCD Panel Open Model B 1. Built-In 1.0M HD Note that the Illuminated/ PC Camera Non-Illuminated Touchpad 2. PC Camera LED has a defined valid operation- 3. Built-In Array al area of sensitivity indicated Microphone within the sensor area of the...
Quick Start Guide LCD Panel Closed (Top View) - Model B/D Figure 1 - 4 LCD Panel Closed Model B/D 1. Top Case Logo LED (Optional) 2. Built-In 1.0M HD PC Camera Top Case Logo LED The top case logo LED pictured here may differ in appearance from the design on your Model B/...
Quick Start Guide LCD Panel Open - Model C Figure 1 - 5 LCD Panel Open Model C 1. Built-In PC Camera 2. PC Camera LED 3. Built-In Microphone 4. LCD 5. Speakers 6. 3D Emitter 7. LED Status Indicators 8.
Quick Start Guide LCD Panel Open - Model D Figure 1 - 6 LCD Panel Open Model D 1. Built-In 2.0M HD PC Camera 2. PC Camera LED 3. Built-In Array Microphone 4. LCD 5. Speakers 6. Power Button 7. LED Status Indicators Note that the Touchpad and 8.
Quick Start Guide LED Indicators The LED indicators display helpful information about the current status of the computer. Icon Color Description Icon Color Description Number Lock is Activated White Orange The Battery is Charging Wireless Device Caps Lock is Activated The Battery has Reached Operation Aboard Blinking...
Quick Start Guide Illuminated LED Keyboard - Models A, C & D The illuminated keyboard has an embedded numerical keypad for easy numeric data Other Keyboards input, and features function keys to allow you to change operational features instant- ly.
Quick Start Guide Illuminated LED Keyboard - Model B The illuminated keyboard has an embedded numerical keypad for easy numeric data Other Keyboards input, and features function keys to allow you to change operational features instant- ly. See Table 1 - 6, on page 1 - 20 for full function key combination details.
Quick Start Guide Keyboard LED Controls for Model B Computers Note that Model B computers feature a series of additional LEDs, some of which can be configured by the key- board controls and keyboard backlight application outlined on the following pages. Note the following keyboard LED features unique to Model B computers.
Quick Start Guide Keyboard Backlight LED Press Fn plus the key to toggle the keyboard LED on/off. The keyboard LED may be configured using the Fn + key combination outlined in the table below. In addition press Fn plus the key to launch the keyboard backlight application to configure the settings (see overleaf).
Page 49
Quick Start Guide Keyboard Backlight Application The keyboard Backlight application can be accessed by pressing the Fn plus key. Click the Help button in the application to display the configuration keys. Note this will also affect the LEDs (e.g. Touchpad, Power Button, Top Case Logo etc.) for Model B computers.
Quick Start Guide Effects Buttons & Help LED Effects Buttons Random Color Up/Down Wave Dancing Effect Breathing (All Colors) Tempo Beat Cycle (Colors as Selected in RGB) Custom Mode - Display & Configure Flashing Keyboard Sections & Colors Illumination Keys Note that the keyboard illumi- nation (increase/decrease) keys may be used to config-...
Quick Start Guide Keyboard Shortcuts The following Windows Logo Key (Winkey) keyboard shortcuts are useful for navi- gation/operation in Windows 8.1. Windows Logo Keyboard Shortcut Windows Logo Description Use the Windows logo Key + + D key com- bination switch Toggle between the Start screen and the foremost running app or the Tap Winkey...
Quick Start Guide Function Keys & Visual Indicators The function keys (F1 - F12 etc.) will act as hot keys when pressed while the Fn key is held down. Visual in- dicators (see the table below) are available when the Hot Key driver is installed. Keys Function/Visual Indicators Keys...
Quick Start Guide Clickpad/Touchpad and Buttons/Mouse The Clickpad/Touchpad is an alternative to the mouse; however, you can also add a Clickpad Cleaning mouse to your computer through one of the USB ports. The Clickpad/Touchpad but- In order to improve pad tons function in much the same way as a two-button mouse (see page 11).
Quick Start Guide Control Center When in the Windows Desktop application (not in the Start screen) press the Fn + Esc key combination, or double-click the icon in the notification area of the taskbar to toggle the Control Center on/off. The Con- trol Center gives quick access to frequently used controls and enables you to quickly turn the camera/Touch Pad on/off (see Appendix B...
Quick Start Guide Front & Rear Views Figure 1 - 14 Front & Rear Views Models A & C 1. LED Power Indica- tors Models A & C 2. Fan Outlet/Intake 3. HDMI-Out Port 4. USB 3.0 Port 5. DC-In Jack Models B &...
Quick Start Guide Right View Figure 1 - 15 Right View 1. Optical Device Models A & C Drive Bay 2. Combined eSATA/ USB 2.0 Port 3. Powered USB 3.0 Port Models B & D 4. USB 3.0 Port 5. Thunderbolt Port 6.
Page 57
Quick Start Guide Changing DVD Regional Codes Disk Eject Warning Go to the Control Panel and double-click Device Don’t try to eject a CD/DVD while the system is ac- Manager (Hardware and Sound), then click the + cessing it. This may cause the system to “crash”. Stop next to DVD/CD-ROM drives.
Quick Start Guide Left View Figure 1 - 16 Left View 1. Security Lock Slot Models A & C 2. RJ-45 LAN Jack 3. Multi-In-1 Card Reader 4. Line-In Jack 5. S/PDIF-Out Jack 6. Microphone-In Models B & D Jack 7.
Quick Start Guide Bottom View - Models A & C Figure 1 - 17 Bottom View Models A & C 1. Fan Outlet/Intake 2. Component Bay Cover 3. Sub Woofer 4. Battery 5. HDD Bay Overheating To prevent your comput- Battery Information er from overheating make sure nothing blocks the...
Quick Start Guide Bottom View - Models B & D Figure 1 - 18 Bottom View Models B & D 1. Fan Outlet/Intake 2. Component Bay Cover 3. Sub Woofer 4. Battery 5. HDD Bay Overheating To prevent your comput- er from overheating make Battery Information sure nothing blocks the...
Quick Start Guide Windows 8.1 Control Panel Throughout this manual you will see an instruction to open the Control Panel. Windows Versions R ight-click the lower left hot corner to bring up the context menu (or use the Win- + X key combination) and select Control Panel in both the dows Logo Key Note that the informa-...
Page 62
Quick Start Guide Right-click the Start button in the Desktop app (or use the Windows Logo Key + X key combination) to bring up an advanced context menu of useful features such as Control Panel, Programs and Features, Power Options, Task Manager, Display Most Search, File Explorer, Command Prompt, Device Manager and Network Connec- Recently Used...
Quick Start Guide Windows 8.1 Start Screen & Desktop The Apps, control panels, utilities and programs within Windows are accessed from the Start screen and/or Windows Desktop app. The Desktop (which runs as an app within the Start screen) can be accessed by clicking the Desktop item in the Start screen (or by using the Windows Logo Key + D key combination).
Quick Start Guide Apps & Tiles The Start screen will contain a number of apps, and many more will be installed as you add more applications etc. Not all of these apps can fit on one screen so you will often need use the slider at the bottom of the screen in order to view all the necessary Apps.
Quick Start Guide Desktop Application When the Desktop app is running (click the app in the Start screen or use the Windows Logo Key + D key combination) you can use lower left hot corner to switch between the Start screen and the Windows Desktop app.
Quick Start Guide The Charms Bar The right side of the screen displays the Charms Bar. The Charms Bar contains the Search, Share, Start, De- vices and Settings menus. To access up the Charms Bar move the cursor to the upper or lower right corners of the screen, and then hover over one of the items in the Charms Bar to activate it (the bar will be black when it is active), or use the Windows Logo Key + C key combination.
Page 67
Quick Start Guide Charms Bar Items • Search : You can search for any file, application, Apps and control panel settings with instantaneous results. • Share : This button is used to share information with people via mail or social networks. •...
Quick Start Guide Windows 8.1 Control Panel In many instances throughout this manual you will see an instruction to open the Control Panel. The Control Panel can be accessed in a number of ways in Windows 8.1. • Click Search in the Windows Charms Bar (see previous page) and the search pane will pop out. Type Control Panel and select it from the results to the left.
Page 69
Quick Start Guide • When in the Desktop app (this does not apply to the Start screen) click on Settings in the Windows Charms Bar and select Control Panel from the menu. Figure 1 - 28 - Settings Charms Bar (Desktop App Only) •...
Page 70
Quick Start Guide • Right-click the Start button to bring up the menu and select Control Panel (see Figure 1 - 20 on page 1 30). Keyboard Shortcut to Control Panel You can also use keyboard shortcuts to access the Control Panel. Press the Windows logo key and X to bring up the context menu, and then press P to bring up the Control Panel.
Quick Start Guide Windows 8.1 Taskbar In many instances throughout this manual you will see an instruction to access the notification area of the task- bar (system tray). In Windows 8.1 the taskbar is accessed from the Desktop application; if you are in the Start screen you will need to switch to the Desktop.
Quick Start Guide Video Features This computer features two different (either NVIDIA or AMD) video options. You can switch display devices, and configure display options, from the Display control panel (in Appearances and Personalization) in Win- dows 8 when running the Desktop app (see “Desktop Application”...
Page 73
Quick Start Guide Screen Resolution Video Options Note that card types, specifi- cations and drivers are sub- ject to continual updates and changes. Check with your distributor/supplier for the latest details on video cards supported. Figure 1 - 31 - Screen Resolution Video Features 1 - 41...
Page 74
Quick Start Guide To access the NVIDIA Control Panel: Right-click the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel (Figure 1 - 32). Double-click the icon (Figure 1 - 32) in the Windows control panel. “NVIDIA Video Driver Controls” on page C - 1 for full details on control panels etc.
Page 75
Quick Start Guide To access the AMD Catalyst Control Center: Right-click the desktop and select Catalyst Control Center (at the top of the desktop menu) (Figure 1 - 33). Click Advanced settings in the Screen Resolution control panel (see Figure 1 - 31), click the Catalyst Control Center tab and then click Catalyst Control Center Double-click (or right-click the icon and select Graphics Properties) the icon...
Quick Start Guide Configuring External Displays You can switch display devices, and configure display options, from the Display control panel (in Appearances and Personalization) in Windows when running the Desktop app (see “Desktop Application” on page 1 - 33). It is possible to quickly configure external displays from the Devices menu item in the Charms Bar (see “The Charms Bar”...
Quick Start Guide Power Options Power Options (Hardware and Sound) can be accessed from the Control Panel. The Power Menu item in Set- tings in the Charms Bar in Windows 8.1 may be used to Shut down or Restart (you can also add Hibernate/ Sleep to the menu - see “Adding Hibernate/Sleep to the Power Menu”...
Quick Start Guide Running Apps To run apps in Windows 8.1 you will need to check that the Screen Resolution and User Account Control Set- tings are compatible with the system requirements. Screen Resolution Settings Switch to the Windows Desktop (click the app or use the Windows logo key + D key combination).
Page 79
Quick Start Guide User Account Control Settings If your computer meets the minimum screen resolution requirements, and still you can't run apps, then that you have to check the status of User Account Control (UAC). Apps may fail to open when the UAC is turned off. To check whether the UAC is on or off, follow the instructions below.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Chapter 2: Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Overview Read this chapter to learn more about the following main features and components of the computer: • Hard Disk Drive • Optical Device • Multi-In-1 Card Reader •...
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Hard Disk Drive The hard disk drive(s) is(are) used to store your data in the computer. The hard Warranty Warning disk(s) can be taken out to accommodate other 2.5" serial (SATA) hard disk drives with a height of 9.5 mm.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Optical Device There is a bay for a 5.25" optical (CD/DVD) device (12.7mm height). The actual de- Sound Volume vice will depend on the model you purchased (see “Storage” on page E - 3). The Adjustment optical device is usually labeled “Drive D:”...
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Handling CDs or DVDs Proper handling of your CDs/DVDs will prevent them from being damaged. Please follow the advice below to make sure that the data stored on your CDs/DVDs can be CD Emergency Eject accessed.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio DVD Regional Codes To change the DVD regional codes see “Changing DVD Regional Codes” on page 1 - DVD Regional Coding Table 2 - 1 Region Geographical Location DVD Regional Coding USA, Canada Western Europe, Japan, South Africa, Middle East &...
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Multi-In-1 Card Reader The card reader allows you to use some of the latest digital storage cards. Push the Card Reader Cover card into the slot and it will appear as a removable device, and can be accessed in the same way as your hard disk (s).
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Audio Features You can configure the audio options on your computer from the Sound control Volume Adjustment panel in Windows, or from the Realtek HD Audio Manager icon in the notifi- The sound volume level cation area/control panel (right-click the taskbar notification area icon to bring up is set using the volume...
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Setup for 5.1 or 7.1 Surround Sound To setup your system for 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound you will need to connect the au- dio cables to the Headphone-Out, Line-In, Microphone-In jack and S/PDIF-Out jacks (note: the S/PDIF jack is used for 7.1 surround sound only). Click Start, and click Control Panel (or point to Settings and click Control Panel) and make sure you are in Classic View.
Page 89
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Plug the front speaker cables into the Headphone-Out Jack. Plug in the other cables (you may require an adapter to connect each cable to the appropriate jack e.g a stereo mini to dual RCA adapter) from your speakers as follows: •...
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Setup for Audio Recording To record audio sources on your computer at optimum quality follow the instruc- tions below: Click Control Panel and make sure you are in Classic View. Click Realtek HD Audio Manager (or right-click the notification area icon select Sound Manager).
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Clickpad/Touchpad and Buttons/Mouse The Clickpad/Touchpad is an alternative to the mouse; however, you can also add a Clickpad Cleaning mouse to your computer through one of the USB ports. The Clickpad/Touchpad but- In order to improve pad tons function in much the same way as a two-button mouse.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Clickpad/Touchpad Sensitivity (Models A, C & D) The mouse button zones at the bottom of the pad measure about 15mm from the bottom of the pad, and the left and right buttons are divided roughly down the mid- dle as illustrated below.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Touchpad Configuration for Models A, C & D Once you have installed the Touchpad driver (see “Touchpad (Clickpad)” on Mouse Driver page 4 - 7) you can configure the functions from the Mouse control panel in Win- dows, or by double-clicking the Touchpad driver icon in the notification area of If you are using an ex-...
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Gestures and Device Settings The Synaptics Gestures Suite application allows you to use a specific gesture (ac- Show Video tion) on the surface of the Clickpad/Touchpad to perform specific actions to manip- ulate documents, objects and applications. You can get a clearer view of the gestures in- You can configure the settings from the Device Settings tab in Mouse Properties:...
Page 95
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Disabling the Touchpad If you need to disable the Touchpad for any reason (e.g. you may find that when us- ing the computer’s internal keyboard you accidentally trigger the Touchpad when resting your wrists or palms on it) you can do so by using Fn + F1 key combination. You can also set the system to automatically disable the internal Touchpad when an external USB point device (e.g a USB mouse) is attached.
Page 96
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio PalmCheck The PalmCheck feature helps prevent operating the Clickpad/Touchpad by accident, by recognizing when your palm is resting on it or brushing its surface while you are PalmCheck typing. order improve Clickpad/Touchpad scrolling responsive- ness when using one- finger scrolling, you can adjust the PalmCheck...
Page 97
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Tap to Click Enable/disable the Tap to Click feature from the icon in the notification area of the taskbar. Right-click the Touchpad driver icon in the notification area of the task- bar and click Tap to Click to enable or disable the feature. When enabled you can use a single-tap with your finger to signify a single left mouse click, and a double- tap signifies a double left mouse click.
Page 98
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Scrolling One-Finger scrolling allows you to scroll vertically by sliding your finger upwards/ downwards along the right edge of the Clickpad/Touchpad, or horizontally by slid- Show Video ing your finger left/right along the lower edge of the pad. “Show Video”...
Page 99
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Rotating Use the Twist Rotate gesture to rotate objects (e.g. photos). Select the object to rotate and place two fingers down on the pad with a slight gap between them. Slide both fingers clockwise or counterclockwise (similar to the motion of turning a knob) to rotate the object.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Touchpad Configuration for Model B Once you have installed the Touchpad driver (see “Touchpad (Clickpad)” on Tray Icon page 4 - 7) you can configure the functions by double-clicking the Touchpad driver icon in the notification area of the Desktop taskbar, or from the Mouse control Make sure that the Touchpad driver icon panel in Windows.
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Finger Sensing Pad Configurator The Finger Sensing Pad Configurator allows you to use a configure the settings for the Finger Sensing Pad device and software. The left pane in the control panel Configuration contains all the configurable items, and you can click the “+” to expand the menu Click Defaults to re- selections.
Page 102
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Disabling the Touchpad If you need to disable the Touchpad for any reason (e.g. you may find that when us- ing the computer’s internal keyboard you accidentally trigger the Touchpad when resting your wrists or palms on it) you can do so by using Fn + F1 key combination. You can also set the system to automatically disable the internal Touchpad when an external USB pointing device (e.g.
Page 103
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio You can also enable Typing Detection to disable the pad while you are typing. The pad will be disabled while typing is detected, and will be reactivated after a set in- terval of time when typing is not detected. You can use the slider to adjust the reac- tivation time for an appropriate interval.
Page 104
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio On-pad Functions Put a tick in the appropriate box to enable the function. Traditional or • On-pad Click - The same function as a left mouse click. Reverse Scrolling • Vertical/Horizontal Scrolling - This will enable sensing zones on the pad to allow you to touch to enable scrolling.
Page 105
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Gestures Click Gestures and make sure that the Enable Gestures tickbox is clicked. Double- click Gestures and then double-click Tailor-made or Applications to open the sub- Play Video menu. You can enable/disable and configure any of the Tailor-made gestures from You can get a clearer these submenus.
Page 106
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio • Two Fingers Straight Up/Down - Place two fingers side by side on the pad, slightly apart. Slide the fingers upwards/downwards in a continuous motion. Figure 2 - 25 2F Straight Up/ Down • Two Fingers Straight Right/Left - Place two fingers side by side on the pad, slightly apart.
Page 107
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio • Two Fingers Click - Tap the pad with two slightly separated fingers. This simu- lates the use of a middle mouse button often used in the most common internet browsers. Figure 2 - 28 2F Click •...
Page 108
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio • One Finger Edge Swipe Right - Place a single finger on the right edge of the pad and slide the finger to the left onto the pad. This is used to open the Charms bar.
Page 109
Storage Devices, Mouse & Audio Applications A number of programs/applications support gestures which trigger functions within the program. The Program List displays the programs/applications supporting these functions, and you can use the scroll bar to the right to scroll up/down the list. Click to select the program/application and click View (or just double-click) to see the gestures supported.
Power Management Chapter 3: Power Management Overview OS Note Power management To conserve power, especially when using the battery, your computer power man- functions will vary slight- agement conserves power by controlling individual components of the computer ly depending on your (the monitor and hard disk drive) or the whole system.
Power Management The Power Sources The computer can be powered by either an AC/DC adapter or a battery pack. Forced Off AC/DC Adapter If the system “hangs”, and the Ctrl + Alt + Del Use only the AC/DC adapter that comes with your computer. The wrong type of AC/ key combination doesn’t DC adapter will damage the computer and its components.
Power Management Turning On the Computer Now you are ready to begin using your computer. To turn it on simply press the pow- er button on the front panel. When the computer is on, you can use the power button as a Stand by/Hibernate/ Shutdown hot-key button when it is pressed for less than 4 seconds (pressing and holding the power button for longer than this will shut the computer down).
Power Management Shutting the Computer Down Note that you should always shut your computer down by choosing the Shut down command as this will help prevent hard disk or system problems. Use the Shut down or sign out item in the Context Menu (right-click the lower left corner of the screen to bring up the menu).
Power Management Power Plans The computer can be configured to conserve power by means of power plans. You Resuming can use (or modify) an existing power plan, or create a new one. Operation The settings may be adjusted to set the display to turn off after a specified time, and Table 3 - 1, on to send the computer into Sleep after a period of inactivity.
Page 116
Power Management Each Windows power plan will also adjust the processor performance of your ma- chine in order to save power. This is worth bearing in mind if you are experiencing any reduced performance (especially under DC/battery power). Choose High performance (you may need to click Show additional plans to view the High performance plan) for maximum performance when the computer is pow- ered from an AC power source.
Power Management Power-Saving States You can use power-saving states to stop the computer’s operation and restart where Wake On LAN you left off. Win 8.1 uses the Sleep, Hibernate and Shut Down power-saving Support states. Wake-On-LAN is only supported from Sleep or Sleep Hibernate states...
Power Management Hibernate Hibernate uses the least amount of power of all the power-saving states and saves all of your information on a part of the hard disk before it turns the system off. If a power failure occurs the system can restore your work from the hard disk; if a power failure occurs when work is saved only to memory, then the work will be lost.
Power Management Configuring the Power Buttons The power/sleep button (Fn + F4 key combo) and closed lid may be set to send the Password computer in to a power-saving state. Click Choose what the power buttons do on Protection the left menu in Power Options to bring up the menu.
Page 120
Power Management Adding Hibernate/Sleep to the Power Menu Add Hibernate/Sleep to the Power Menu as follows. Go to the Power Options (Hardware and Sound) control panel. Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable” Click Choose what the power buttons do. Click to put a tick in the Hibernate/Sleep box under Shutdown settings.
Power Management Resuming Operation You can resume operation from power-saving states by pressing the power button, or in some cases pressing the sleep button (Fn + F4 key combo). Icon Color Power Status To Resume Table 3 - 1 Power Off Press the Power Button Resuming Press the Power Button...
Power Management Power Conservation Modes This system supports Energy Star power management features that place comput- ers (CPU, hard drive, etc.) into a low-power sleep modes after a designated period Power Conservation of inactivity. Adjust Power Conservation Modes from the Control Center: Modes The Energy Star setting Press the Fn + Esc key combination to toggle the Control Center on/off.
Page 123
Power Management Ctrl + Alt + Delete Key Combination You can use the CTRL + ALT + DEL key combination from almost any of the Win- dows 8 interfaces/Apps to bring up a full-screen displaying Lock, Switch User, Log off, Change a password and Task Manager options. If you click the Power icon in the lower right corner of the screen a power management option menu appears to display Sleep, Shut down, and Restart.
Power Management Battery Information Follow these simple guidelines to get the best use out of your battery. Low Battery Battery Power Warning Your computer’s battery power is dependent upon many factors, including the pro- When the battery is criti- grams you are running, and peripheral devices attached.
Power Management Conserving Battery Power • Use a power plan that conserves power (e.g Power saver), however note that this may have an affect on computer performance. Windows Mobility Center • Lower the brightness level of the LCD display. The system will decrease LCD brightness slightly to save power when it is not powered by the AC/DC adapter.
Power Management Battery Life Battery life may be shortened through improper maintenance. To optimize the life and improve its performance, fully discharge and recharge the battery at least once every 30 days. We recommend that you do not remove the battery yourself. If you do need to re- move the battery for any reason (e.g.
Power Management Proper handling of the Battery Pack • DO NOT disassemble the battery pack under any circumstances • DO NOT expose the battery to fire or high temperatures, it may explode Caution • DO NOT connect the metal terminals (+, -) to each other Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly re- placed.
Power Management Battery FAQ How do I completely discharge the battery? Use the computer with battery power until it shuts down due to a low battery. Don’t turn off the computer even if a message indicates the battery is critically low, just let the computer use up all of the battery power and shut down on its own.
Page 129
Power Management Click Change plan settings (after creating it) and click Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings. Figure 3 - 12 Change Plan Settings / Change Advanced Power Settings Battery Information 3 - 19...
Page 130
Power Management Scroll down to Battery and click + to expand the battery options. Choose the options below (click Yes if a warning appears): Figure 3 - 13 Power Options Advanced Settings - Battery • Low battery levels = 0% •...
Page 131
Power Management How do I fully charge the battery? When charging the battery, don’t stop until the LED charging indicator light changes from orange to green. How do I maintain the battery? Completely discharge and charge the battery at least once every 30 days or after about 20 partial discharges.
Drivers & Utilities Chapter 4: Drivers & Utilities This chapter deals with installing the drivers and utilities essential to the operation or Driver Installation & improvement of some of the computer’s subsystems. The system takes advantage of Power some newer hardware components for which the latest versions of most available op- When installing driv- erating systems haven’t built in drivers and utilities.
Drivers & Utilities Driver Installation Check the driver installation order from Table 4 - 1, on page 4 - 3 (the drivers must be installed in Insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual this order) which is the same as that listed in the disc into the computer’s DVD drive.
Page 135
Drivers & Utilities Win 8.1 Driver Page # Win 8.1 - Optional Items Page # Setting Up SATA RAID or AHCI Mode Chipset Page 4 - 6 Page 7 - 2 (for RAID & AHCI mode Hard Disk Drives) Video (VGA) - NVIDIA Page 4 - 6 PC Camera Module (No driver required)
Drivers & Utilities Manual Driver Installation Updating/Reinstalling Individual Drivers Click Browse CD/DVD (button) in the Drivers Install- If you wish to update/reinstall individual drivers it er application and browse to the executable file in the may be necessary to uninstall the original driver.To do appropriate driver folder.
Drivers & Utilities User Account Control If a User Account Control prompt appears as part of the driver installation procedure, click Continue or Driver Installation General Guidelines Allow, and follow the installation procedure as direct- The driver installation procedure outlined in this Chapter (and in Chapter 7 Options &...
Drivers & Utilities Touchpad (Clickpad) MEI Driver 1. Click 5.Install Touchpad Driver > Yes. 1. Click 8.Install MEI Driver > Yes. 2. Click Next. 2. Click Next > Yes > Next. 3. Click the button to accept the license, and then 3.
Page 140
Drivers & Utilities After installing the audio driver the system will not re- turn to the Drivers Installer screen. To install any of the optional drivers, eject the Device Drivers & Utili- Windows Update ties + User’s Manual disc and then reinsert it (or dou- After installing all the drivers make sure you enable Win- ble-click the disc icon in My Computer), and click dows Update in order to get all the latest security up-...
Drivers & Utilities Optional Drivers See the pages indicated for the driver installation procedures for any modules included in your purchase option. Figure 4 - 3 - Drivers Installer (Options) Note that you need to install both the WLAN & Bluetooth drivers for the WLAN & Bluetooth Combo modules, however the Qualcomm Atheros WLAN (Combo) module only requires the WLAN driver installation.
BIOS Utilities Chapter 5: BIOS Utilities Overview BIOS Screens Note that BIOS This chapter gives a brief introduction to the computer’s built-in software: screens pictured these pages are intend- Diagnostics: The POST (Power-On Self Test) ed for guidance in set- ting up your system’s BIOS.
BIOS Utilities The Power-On Self Test (POST) If you enable the Boot-time Diagnostic Screen in the Setup Utility, each time you BIOS Settings turn on the computer the system takes a few seconds to conduct a POST, including Warning a quick test of the on-board RAM (memory).
BIOS Utilities Failing the POST Errors can be detected during the POST. There are two categories, “fatal” and “non- fatal”. Fatal Errors These stop the boot process and usually indicate there is something seriously wrong with your system. Take the computer to your service representative or authorized distributor/supplier as soon as possible.
BIOS Utilities The Setup Utility The Aptio Setup Utility tells the system how to configure itself and manage basic BIOS Settings features and subsystems (e.g. port configuration). Warning Entering Setup Incorrect settings can cause your system to To enter Setup, turn on the computer and press F2 during the POST. The prompt malfunction.
BIOS Utilities Setup Screens The following pages contain additional advice on portions of the Setup. Along the top of the screen is a menu bar with menu headings. When you select a heading, a Setup Menus new screen appears. Scroll through the features listed on each screen to make chang- Setup menus es to Setup.
BIOS Utilities Main Menu Figure 5 - 2 Main Menu System Time & Date (Main Menu) The hour setting uses the 24-hour system (i.e., ØØ = midnight; 13 = 1 pm). If you can change the date and time settings in your operating system, you will also change these settings.
BIOS Utilities SATA Port # (Main Menu) Pressing Enter opens the sub-menu to show the configuration of a optical Device/ HDD on the computer’s SATA ports. System/Extended Memory (Main Menu) This item contains information on the system memory, and is not user configurable. The system will auto detect the amount of memory installed.
BIOS Utilities Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology (Advanced Menu) Enable/disable Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology from this menu. The rapid start hibernation mode can resume power within 5 to 6 seconds and can remember your computer's state with zero power. Intel(R) Thunderbolt (Advanced Menu) You can configure the Intel Thunderbolt port’s security level here in Legacy Mode, as Unique ID or DP++ Only.
BIOS Utilities SATA Mode (Advanced Menu) You can configure SATA (Serial ATA) control to operate in IDE (native/compati- ble), AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) or RAID (Redundant Array of In- SATA Mode dependent Disks) modes from this menu. The SATA mode should be set BEFORE Selection installing an operating system, and after you have backed up all necessary files and Set the SATA mode BE-...
BIOS Utilities Boot Logo (Advanced Menu) Use this menu item to enable/disable the Boot Logo screen at system startup if you have not enabled UEFI Boot. If you disable the Boot Logo you will not see the F2 Enter Setup or F7 Boot Options prompts on the screen, however you can still press these keys, while the boot screen is displayed, to perform the Enter Setup or Boot Option functions.
BIOS Utilities Security Menu Security Menu The changes you make here affect the access to the Setup utility itself, and also access to your machine as it boots up after you turn it on. These settings do not affect your machine or network passwords which will be set in your...
BIOS Utilities Set User Password (Security Menu) You can set a password for user mode access to the Aptio Setup Utility. This will not affect access to the computer OS, (only the Setup utility) unless you choose to Password Warning set a Password on Boot (see below).
BIOS Utilities TPM Configuration (Security Menu) This sub-menu will allow you to enable/disable Trusted Platform Module (TPM) support, and to configure the TPM State. Select TPM Configuration and press En- ter to access the sub-menu. Press Enter to access the Security Device Support menu and select Enable to display the full TPM configuration menu (see “Trusted Plat- form Module”...
BIOS Utilities TPM State (Security Menu > Security Device Support Enabled) Select TPM State, press Enter and select Enabled to change the TPM state to en- abled. You will then need to press F4 to save the changes and restart the computer. Figure 5 - 7 TPM State (Enabled) As the computer restarts press F2 to enter the BIOS again and go to the TPM Con-...
BIOS Utilities Pending TPM operation (Security Menu > Security Device Support Enabled & TPM State Enabled) Select Pending TPM operation, press Enter and select the option you require (if you are initializing TPM you should select Enable Take Ownership). You will then need to press F4 to save the changes and restart the computer.
BIOS Utilities Boot Menu Figure 5 - 9 Boot Menu BIOS Screens Note that BIOS screens pictured these pages are intend- ed for guidance in set- ting up your system’s BIOS. BIOS versions are sub- ject to constant change and revision, therefore your computer’s actual When you turn the computer on it will look for an operating system (e.g.
BIOS Utilities Boot Option Priorities (Boot Menu) Press Enter to select the Boot Option # and use the arrow keys to select any device in order to move its boot priority up and down the list (the selected device will be highlighted in white).
BIOS Utilities Exit Menu Figure 5 - 10 Exit Menu Choosing to Discard Changes, or Exit Discarding Changes, will wipe out any changes you have made to the Setup. You can also choose to restore the original Set- up defaults that will return the Setup to its original state, and erase any previous changes you have made in a previous session.
Upgrading The Computer Chapter 6: Upgrading The Computer Overview This chapter contains information on upgrading the computer. Follow the steps out- Warranty Warning lined to make the desired upgrades. If you have any trouble or problems you can con- tact your service representative for further help.
Upgrading The Computer When Not to Upgrade These procedures involve opening the system’s case, adding and sometimes replac- ing parts.You should not perform any of these upgrades if: Power Safety Warning Before you undertake • Your system is still under warranty or a service contract upgrade proce- •...
Page 165
Upgrading The Computer Upgrading the Processor or Video Cards If you want to upgrade your computer by replacing the existing processor with a fast- er/new one, by adding/changing a video card, or secondary system memory you will need to contact your distributor/supplier. We recommend that you do not do this yourself, since if it is done incorrectly you may damage the processor or mainboard etc.
Upgrading The Computer Removing the Battery If you are confident in undertaking upgrade procedures yourself, for safety reasons Warranty Warning it is best to remove the battery. Before removing the battery disconnect the AC/ DC adapter from the computer first. Please check with your service representative...
Page 167
Upgrading The Computer For Model A & C Computers: Lift the battery up out of the bay at point and remove it Figure 6 - 2 Battery Removal (Model A & C Computers) Removing the Battery 6 - 5...
Page 168
Upgrading The Computer For Model B & D Computers: Slide the battery forward in the direction of the arrow on the battery until the markers on the battery and case align Lift the battery up out of the bay and remove it When replacing the battery insert it on to the case until the case markers align and then slide it until it locks.
Upgrading The Computer Upgrading the Optical (DVD) Device Turn the computer off, remove the AC/DC adapter, turn it over and remove the bat- tery. Remove the screw at point , and use a screwdriver to carefully push out the optical device at point Reverse the process to install any new optical device.
Upgrading The Computer Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive(s) The hard disk drive(s) can be taken out to accommodate other 2.5" serial (SATA) HDD System Warning hard disk drives with a height of 9.5mm (h) (see “Storage” on page E - 3).
Page 171
Upgrading The Computer Removing the Hard Disk from the Upper HDD Bay Slot Turn the computer off, remove the AC/DC adapter, turn it over and remove the bat- tery. RAID Hard Disks Locate the hard disk bay cover and remove screw Slide the case cover until the case markers align.
Page 172
Upgrading The Computer Carefully pull up the tab to move the HDD assembly in the direction of arrow Lift the HDD assembly out of the bay Figure 6 - 6 Upper Slot Hard Disk Assembly Removal 6 - 10 Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive(s)
Page 173
Upgrading The Computer Remove screws and separate the hard disk from the insulation plate Reverse the process to install any new disk (and do not forget to install the insulation plate and screws (see over for cover). Figure 6 - 7 Upper Bay Hard Disk Insulation Plate Removal...
Page 174
Upgrading The Computer Inserting the Hard Disk into the Upper HDD Bay Slot Insert the HDD assembly into the bay at the angle indicated by arrow Place the HDD assembly flat into the bay as indicated by arrow Slide the assembly firmly into the connector (the reverse direction to the arrow in Figure 6 - 6 on page 6 - 10).
Page 175
Upgrading The Computer Removing the Hard Disk from the Lower HDD Bay Slot Turn the computer off, remove the AC/DC adapter, turn it over and remove the bat- tery and any HDD in the upper slot. Raise the HDD assembly up at an angle as illustrated.
Page 176
Upgrading The Computer Remove screws and separate the hard disk from the insulation plate Reverse the process to install any new disk (and do not forget to install the insulation plate and screws (see over for cover). Figure 6 - 10 Primary Hard Disk Removal 6 - 14 Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive(s)
Upgrading The Computer Replacing the Hard Disk Drive Bay Cover Reinsert the HDD bay cover by placing it on the bottom case assembly and then slide it on to the case. Make sure the case markers line up before sliding any further. Press down on the cover as illustrated , and then slide the cover in the direction of arrow...
Upgrading The Computer Upgrading the System Memory (RAM) The computer has four memory sockets for 204 pin Small Outline Dual In-line (SO- DIMM) DDR III (DDR3) type memory modules (see “Memory” on page E - The total memory size is automatically detected by the POST routine once you turn on your computer.
Page 179
Upgrading The Computer Removing the Primary System Memory Turn off the computer, and turn it over and remove the battery. Remove screws from the bottom of the computer. Figure 6 - 12 Component Bay Cover Screws Slide the component bay cover until the cover and case indicators are aligned.
Page 180
Upgrading The Computer Lift the bottom cover off the computer case. Figure 6 - 14 Bottom Cover Removal Contact Warning Be careful not to touch the metal pins on the module’s connecting Gently pull the two release latches ( &...
Page 181
Upgrading The Computer The RAM module will pop-up, and you can remove it. Figure 6 - 16 RAM Module Removal Contact Warning Be careful not to touch the metal pins on the module’s connecting edge. Even the cleanest hands have oils which can attract particles, and degrade the module’s performance.
Upgrading The Computer Replacing the Component Bay Cover After the RAM has been installed make sure you replace the component bay cover and all screws. Place the component bay cover on the main computer assembly. Align the markers on the cover and main computer assembly. Slide the cover in position to lock it.
Modules Chapter 7: Modules Overview This chapter contains information on the various modules (some of which are op- tional) which may come with your computer, depending on the configuration pur- chased. If you are unsure please contact your service representative. The chapter includes information on the following: •...
Modules Setting Up SATA RAID or AHCI Mode AHCI Mode RAID Hard Disks Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) is an interface specification that allows All hard disks in a RAID the storage driver to enable advanced serial ATA features such as Native Command should be identical (the Queuing (for maximum hard disk efficiency and performance).
Page 185
Modules RAID Level Description Table 7 - 1 RAID Levels Identical drives reading and writing data in parallel to increase performance. RAID 0 RAID 0 implements a striped disk array and the data is broken into blocks and each block is written to a separate disk drive.
Modules SATA RAID Setup Procedure (Windows 8.1) To configure your RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) system in Strip- ing (RAID 0) or Mirroring (RAID 1) modes (see Table 7 - 1, on page 7 - 3) you will require at least two identical (see sidebar) hard disks. You need to setup a RAID before installing your Windows 8.1 operating system, and you will need to prepare the following in order to do so.
Page 187
Modules Note that the following setup procedure is for clean systems only (i.e. the system has not been previously setup in IDE/AHCI modes and is being changed to a RAID sys- tem). If you are changing your system to RAID after having previously setup in an- other mode see “Changing The SATA Mode”...
Page 188
Modules 13. You can now setup your RAID volume using any two installed disks. 14. Go to Name: and press <Enter>. 15. Type a name of your choice for your RAID volume and press <Enter>. Figure 7 - 2 Name the RAID Volume (Advanced >...
Page 189
Modules 16. Go to RAID Level: and press <Enter>. 17. Choose the RAID Level required (see Table 7 - 1, on page 7 - 3 for details) and press <Enter>. • RAID0 (Stripe) • RAID1 (Mirror) • Recovery 18. Go to any of the disks listed under Select Disks: and select a disk name and press <Enter>.
Page 190
Modules 20. You should select two identical disks to form your RAID volume. 21. If you have selected RAID0 (Stripe) then you can adjust the “Strip Size” to your requirements. 22. If you have selected Recovery then you can adjust the Synchronization to “On Request”...
Page 191
Modules 25. Press <Esc> to exit the menu. 26. Press <F4> and <Yes> to “Save Changes and Reset”, however ensure that the two conditions in the bulleted points below are met before doing so. • Make sure the Windows 8.1 OS DVD is in the DVD drive, as the computer starts up it will automatically boot from the Windows 8.1 OS DVD (you will be prompted to press a key to boot from the DVD).
Modules 35. Install the Windows drivers from the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc as per Table 4 - 1, on page 4 - 3 (make sure you install the Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver - see overleaf). 36.
Modules Deleting a RAID (Windows 8.1) If you wish to delete an existing RAID then follow the procedure below to do so. How- ever backup up any necessary files and data before deleting a RAID, as doing so will result in the loss of all data on the RAID volumes. Start-up your notebook computer and press <F2>...
Modules PC Camera Module When the PC Camera application is run the LED indicator to the left of the camera will be illuminated in red. Note that you need to use the Camera app in Windows to take pictures and capture video. Use the Fn + F10 key combination (see “Function Keys &...
Modules PC Camera Audio Setup If you want to capture video & audio with your camera, it is necessary to setup the audio recording options in Windows. Go to the Control Panel. Click Sound (Hardware and Sound) and click Recording (tab). Right-click hold and release Microphone (Realtek High Definition Audio) and make sure the item is not disabled.
Modules Camera App Run the Camera app from the Start screen by clicking on the Camera app icon The camera interface will display two buttons on the right side of the screen. Figure 7 - 7 Camera App Buttons Exposure Use the slider to adjust the Exposure level.
Modules Camera Options The Camera Options settings may be accessed as follows: Run the Camera app from the Start screen by clicking on the Camera app icon While the camera app is running access the Charms Bar (e.g. click Use the Windows logo key + C key combination).
Modules Taking Pictures/Capturing Video Run the Camera app from the Start screen by clicking on the Camera app icon Right-click the screen and select the timer if you require a countdown before capture. Click the appropriate icon to take a picture or start video capture (if video capture begins a timer will appear in the bottom corner of the screen).
Modules Camera Roll Run the Camera app from the Start screen by clicking on the Camera app icon Right-click on the screen to bring up menu buttons at the bottom of the screen. Click Camera Roll. Click the arrows (on either side of the screen) to browse through the captured photos/video, and back to the Camera app.
Page 200
Modules photo with the edited changes), Update original (which changes the original picture permanently) or Undo any changes. Click the Edit button to bring up a full suite of tools to edit the photo. 10. Click on the menu headings on the left, and then click on the tool on the right to edit the photo as required.
Page 201
Modules Editing Photos Clicking on a captured video will bring up an app bar with a series of buttons. Figure 7 - 13 Edit Buttons (for Video) Click Delete to remove any video from the camera roll (you will be asked to click Delete again to confirm the deletion).
Page 202
Modules Video File Size Note that capturing high resolution video files requires a substantial amount of disk space for each file. After recording video, check the video file size (right-click the file and select Properties) and the remaining free space on your hard disk (go to My Computer, right-click the hard disk, and select Properties).
Modules Wireless LAN Module If you have included an Intel®, 3rd Party 802.11b/g/n or Qualcomm Atheros Wireless Device WLAN (Combo) module is on (i.e. the system is not in Airplane Mode) before in- Operation Aboard stalling the driver. Aircraft The use of any portable Make sure you install the drivers in the order indicated in Table 4 - 1, on page 4 -...
Modules 3rd Party 802.11b/g/n Driver Installation 1. Make sure the system is not in Airplane Mode, and then insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc into the DVD drive. 2. Click Option Drivers (button). 3. Click 1.Install WLAN Driver > Yes. 4.
Modules Qualcomm Atheros WLAN Combo Driver Installation 1. Make sure the system is not in Airplane Mode, and then insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc into the DVD drive. 2. Click Option Drivers (button). 3. Click 1.Install WLAN Driver > Yes. 4.
Page 206
Modules Qualcomm Atheros Killer Network Manager You can use the Qualcomm Atheros Killer Network Manager to monitor your network connection (use the method outlined on page ) to connect to a WLAN 7 - 30 Killer Network access point). Manager The Killer Network Man- Go to the Qualcomm Atheros Killer Network Manager by double-clicking the...
Page 207
Modules PC Monitor The PC Monitor logs performance information on the computer. Use the drop- down menu to select Processor, Memory, FPS (frames per second), Wireless Signal Strength and Internet Bandwidth. You can click on the graph to display to display the time and measurement at that point.
Page 208
Modules Applications The Applications window allows you to view network applications and prioritize how each one uses any available bandwidth. The numbers to the left indicate the cur- Changing rent priority level for the application, from 1 - highest to 4 - lowest. Click in an ap- Application plication to expand the item, and click the number to change the priority level, or Bandwidth...
Page 209
Modules Network Configure the network connection settings and internet provider bandwidth speed from the Network window. Click Test to run a test of your bandwidth, and when complete use the results to configure the optimal upload and download bandwidth for the Killer Network Manager (these are the maximum values displayed in Appli- cations).
Page 210
Modules Advanced Customize Killer Network Manager features from the Advanced window. Here you can change items displayed in Overview, configure default settings for Applications Help and features such as updates, closing dialog, bandwidth units displayed and perfor- access Help mance statistics.
Page 211
Modules Quitting Killer Network Manager Clicking the close icon simply minimizes the application to the system tray, and it will continue to run in the background. To quit the application right-click the icon in the system tray and select Quit from the menu. Figure 7 - 20 Killer Network Manager - Quit...
Modules WLAN Configuration in Windows You can configure a wireless connection using one of the following options, how- ever make sure the Wireless LAN module is turned on (and not in Airplane Mode) before configuration begins. Charms Bar Go to the Charms Bar. Select Settings and then click the WiFi icon (it should read Available under the icon and Airplane mode should be Off).
Page 213
Modules Double-click an access point to connect to it (or click it and click Connect). Enter a network security key (password) if required, and click Next. You can choose to find other devices or not. When you are connected to the network access point it will display Connected Select any connected network and click Disconnect to disconnect from a connected access point.
Page 214
Modules Desktop Mode Switch to the Windows Desktop (click the app or use the Windows logo key D key combination). Click the wireless icon in the notification area of the taskbar. A list of available access points will appear. Double-click an access point to connect to it (or click it and click Connect). Enter a network security key (password) if required, and click Next.
Modules Fingerprint Reader Module The fingerprint reader module provides a high level of security for your computer. Fingerprint Reader Make sure you have administrator’s rights to your computer, and have a Windows and Power Saving password enabled for full security protection. States There are two different fingerprint modules supplied with this model.
Modules Fingerprint Module Configuration Go to the Charms Bar. Select Settings and then click Change PC Settings. Click Accounts and then click Sign-in options. You will need to add a Windows password (click Add under Password). After you have added the password you will need to restart the computer and use your password to log on to the system.
Page 218
Modules 10. Input the Windows password and click OK. 11. You will then be instructed to swipe the same finger across the reader a number of times. Figure 7 - 25 Add a Fingerprint 12. Click Finish. 13. You can choose to Add another finger (this is recommended) or Remove the current fingerprint reading.
Modules Bluetooth & WLAN Combo Module If your purchase option includes the Combination Wireless LAN & Bluetooth Wireless Device module (either Intel® or 3rd Party) then install the driver as instructed overleaf. Operation Aboard Aircraft Make sure that the module is on (i.e. the system is not in Airplane Mode) before in- The use of any portable stalling the driver.
Modules 3rd Party Bluetooth (V4.0) Combo Driver Installation 1. Make sure the system is not in Airplane Mode, and then insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc into the DVD drive. High Speed Bluetooth Data Transfer 2.
Modules Bluetooth Configuration in Windows You can configure a Bluetooth connection as below, however make sure the Blue- tooth module is on (or the system is not in Airplane Mode) before configuration. Bluetooth Headset Stereo Setup Desktop Mode Switch to the Windows Desktop (click the App or use the Windows logo key To setup a Bluetooth headset to support ste- D key combination).
Page 222
Modules Make sure that Bluetooth is turned on and a list of discovered devices will appear. Double-click the device you want to pair with the computer and click Pair. Figure 7 - 27 PC and Devices - Bluetooth On first connection the computer will provide you with a pairing code to be entered onto the device.
Page 223
Modules To Make your Computer Discoverable to Bluetooth Devices Switch to the Windows Desktop (click the app or use the Windows logo key D key combination). Click the notification area of the taskbar, click the Bluetooth icon and click Open Settings. Click Options, and make sure that Allow Bluetooth devices to find this computer check box (Discovery) has a tick inside it.
Modules Trusted Platform Module The TPM security chip allows you to create and manage digital certificates for user and platform authentication. This type of security is usually administered within large enterprises and organizations, and therefore requires implementation by a sys- tem administrator before users can access security features.
Modules Enabling & Activating TPM Restart the computer. Enter the Aptio Setup Utility pressing F2 during the POST/startup. Use the arrow keys to select the Security menu. Select TPM Configuration and press Enter to access the sub-menu. Press Enter to access the Security Device Support menu and select Enable to display the full TPM configuration menu.
Page 226
Modules Select Pending operation, press Enter and select the option you require (if you are initializing TPM you should select Enable Take Ownership). You will then need to press F4 to save the changes and restart the computer. Figure 7 - 31 Pending TPM operation (Enable Take...
Modules Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Driver Installation 1. Make sure you have enabled and activated the TPM in the BIOS before installing the driver. 2. Insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc into the DVD drive. 3. Click Option Drivers (button). 4.
Modules Initializing TPM Switch to the Desktop app and click the TPM icon right-click the icon in the notification area of the taskbar, and select Security Platform Initialization (or click the Security Platform State taskbar bubble). Click User Settings (tab) and click Yes, or right-click the icon in the notification area of the taskbar, and select Security Platform Initialization (or click the Security Platform State taskbar bubble).
Page 229
Modules Choose the Security Platform Features you want to use by clicking the appropriate tickbox. Enter a Basic User Password (and re-type to confirm it) and click Next. Help Right-click the icon the notification area of the taskbar to bring up the menu to select Help or How to use the Security Platform Fea- tures.
Modules Infineon Security Platform Settings Tool The Infineon Security Platform Settings Tool allows you to manage and check the TPM state, manage your password information, and to backup and restore the TPM Menus data. As TPM is usually administered within large enterprises and organizations, Note that not all the your system administrator will need to assist you in managing the information here.
Page 231
Modules User Settings This page allows the settings to be configured for the currently logged in Infineon Security Platform user including the ability to change the password, configure se- cure e-mail, file and folder encryption and Enhanced Authentication. You can also import or delete certificates protected by the security platform.
Page 232
Modules Backup Here you can configure backup and restore operations. Backup files contain the computer identification and user identification information which is used to match the machine name and user name with the current machine and user during restora- tion. Figure 7 - 36 Infineon Security Platform Settings...
Page 233
Modules Migration The Migration tab is used to help securely transfer keys and certificates from one platform to another. Figure 7 - 37 Infineon Security Platform Settings Tool (Migration) Trusted Platform Module 7 - 51...
Page 234
Modules Password Reset Use Password Reset to reset basic user passwords when required. Figure 7 - 38 Infineon Security Platform Settings Tool (Password Reset) 7 - 52 Trusted Platform Module...
Page 235
Modules BitLocker BitLocker Drive Encryption can be used in conjunction with the TPM to encrypt data on the disk and is done via the Microsoft BitLocker Control Panel Applet. Click Configure and select a drive to be encrypted and then follow the Wizard to begin the encryption process.
Page 236
Modules Access the Microsoft BitLocker Drive Encryption control panel applet from the Windows control panel (System and Security). Figure 7 - 40 BitLocker Drive Encryption 7 - 54 Trusted Platform Module...
Page 237
Modules Advanced Configure all the Security Platform owner and policy settings from the Advanced tab. The settings that can be changed are for the local computer only. Figure 7 - 41 Infineon Security Platform Settings Tool (Advanced) Trusted Platform Module 7 - 55...
Modules Sound Blaster Audio Install the Sound Blaster AP to allow you to configure the audio settings to your requirements for the best performance in games, music and movies. Sound Blaster X-Fi MB-3 Audio AP Installation 1. Insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc into the DVD drive.
Page 239
Modules Volume Controls You can click on the volume dials to adjust the level for either the microphone or master volume. You can choose to save the settings for Music, Movie or Game, and these settings can be exported or imported as required. Figure 7 - 43 Sound Blaster X-Fi 3 Volume Controls...
Page 240
Modules SBX Pro Studio Click the tickbox to enable/disable the control, and use the slider to adjust the levels. Press the play button to test settings. Smart Volume Setting The default setting for Smart Volume in SBX Pro Studio is set to Normal.
Page 241
Modules Scout Mode Click in the box to enable Scout Mode to enhance your ability to hear enemies in games from a further distance away than would normally be possible. Figure 7 - 45 Sound Blaster X-Fi 3 Scout Mode Sound Blaster Audio 7 - 59...
Page 242
Modules Voice FX Click in the box to enable Voice FX and click on the sliders to adjust the settings. Select the mode required from the dropbox, and click on Test to hear the playback of the effect. Figure 7 - 46 Sound Blaster X-Fi 3 Voice FX 7 - 60 Sound Blaster Audio...
Page 243
Modules EAX Effects & EQ Click to select either/or EAX Effects or EQ, select the mode required from the drop- box and click on the sliders to adjust the settings. Click on Save to save any custom changes to the set levels and effects. Figure 7 - 47 Sound Blaster X-Fi 3 EAX Effects &...
Page 244
Modules Advanced Settings Select the speaker/headphone configuration from the dropbox, and click on Test to hear the effect. You can also adjust the Bass Management by clicking the Bass Re- direction and Subwoofer Gain, and click on the slider to adjust the Crossover Fre- quency.
Page 245
Modules Hot Key Configuration Click Configure Hot Keys in Scout Mode or Advanced Settings menus to access the Hot Key Configuration menu. Click Enable All Hot Keys, and then click on the task and press the key sequence required. Any hotkeys chosen will be locked by the application, and therefore will not be able to be used in other applications.
Page 246
Modules Creative ALchemy The Creative ALchemy application can be run from the shortcut in the Start menu. Use the left menu to select any installed games and click the button to move them to the right column to enable ALchemy support for the game. Creative ALchemy re- stores hardware accelerated audio to enable EAX effects and 3D Audio when play- ing Direct Sound3D games.
Modules Intel Rapid Storage Technology ® The Intel Rapid Storage Technology application provides high-performance SATA and SATA RAID capabilities. Install the Intel Rapid Storage Technology Intel® Control Center application (after installing all necessary drivers in the correct order) to support Intel®...
Modules Intel® Rapid Storage Technology for RAID Systems Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application displays status information on your RAID configuration. Run the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application from the item in the Start screen. When the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application is launched the system will open the Status window.
Page 249
Modules Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Help If a hard drive member of a RAID volume is reported as “Degraded” or “Failed” it may be possible to recover the volume. If the volume cannot be restored then you Help will need to recreate the RAID volume and restore the data from a back up. Click the Help menu (or press F1) for instructions on how to recover or recreate RAID Vol- Click the Help (or press F1) menu button at the...
Modules RAID Volume Data Verification and Repair The RAID volume data verification process identifies any inconsistencies or bad data on a RAID 0 or RAID 1 volume. The table outlines what occurs for each RAID level: RAID Verify Verify & Repair Level Table 7 - 2 RAID 0...
Page 251
Modules Verifying and Repairing RAID Volume Data Before verifying the volume data you will need to initialize the volume. Run the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application. Click to select the RAID in the pane on the right side of the window. Click Manage and click Advanced.
Page 252
Modules Click Advanced and click Verify, then click Verify (button) to begin the process. The completion percentage will be listed under Status (verifying and repairing). Figure 7 - 53 ® Intel Rapid Storage Technology Verify 7 - 70 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology...
Modules Intel® Smart Response Technology Intel® Smart Response Technology is an Intel® Rapid Storage Technology (RST) caching feature that accelerates computer system performance by using the SSD as cache memory between the hard disk drive and system memory. System Requirements to support Intel® Smart Response Technology: •...
Modules Enabling Intel Smart Response Technology Run the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology application. Click Enable acceleration under Performance > Smart Response Technology (note that you will at least 5MB of free unpartitioned and unallocated space on the SSD otherwise the Smart Response Technology item will not appear). Figure 7 - 55 Intel®...
Page 255
Modules Select the HDD (or RAID volume) to be accelerated (it is highly recommended that you accelerate the system volume or system disk for maximum performance). Select the acceleration mode, and then click OK (Enhanced mode is selected by default). Note: Enhanced mode (default): Acceleration optimized for data protection.
Page 256
Modules The page will refresh and report the new configuration in under Performance > Smart Response Technology. Figure 7 - 57 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology - Performance (Smart Response Technology) 7 - 74 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology...
Modules Intel Rapid Start Technology Driver ® Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology can resume power from Hibernation within 5 to 6 seconds and can remember your computer's previous state with zero power. System Requirements to support Intel® Rapid Start Technology: • Rapid Start Technology should be enabled in the BIOS (see ““Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology (Advanced Menu)”...
Modules Intel® Rapid Start Technology Configuration Enable/disable Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology from the BIOS (see “Intel(R) Rapid Start Technology (Advanced Menu)” on page 5 - Go the Windows control panel and double-click Administrative Tools (System and Security)> Computer Management > Storage > Disk Management Right-click the SSD and select Shrink Volume from the menu.
Page 259
Modules Enter the figure, which should be equal to amount of system memory (RAM) in your computer, in “Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB”. Figure 7 - 59 Shrink Volume Size Click Shrink (any unallocated file space may be formatted for storage use). ...
Page 260
Modules Run the Desktop app and right-click the lower left hot corner (or use the Windows Logo Key + X key combination) and select Command Prompt (Admin). Figure 7 - 60 Search for CMD Prompt Type “DISKPART”. At the DISKPART command type “list disk”. Figure 7 - 61 Diskpart - List Disk 7 - 78 Intel®...
Page 261
Modules Type “select disk #” (# is disk number where you want to create the store partition, so refer to the results obtained from "list disk" for exact disk number). 10. The message “Disk # is now the selected disk.” will appear. Figure 7 - 62 Diskpart - Select Disk #...
Page 262
Modules 13. Type “detail disk”. Figure 7 - 64 Diskpart - Detail Disk 14. Type “select Volume #” (# is volume of your storage partition so refer to results obtained from "detail disk" for the exact volume number). 15. The message “Volume # is now the selected volume.” will appear. Figure 7 - 65 Diskpart - Select Volume #...
Page 263
Modules 16. Type the following, depending on the format of the SSD. • For MBR formatted SSDs: “set id=84 override” (the id must be set to 84). • For GPT formatted SSDs: “set id=D3BFE2DE-3DAF-11DF-BA40-E3A556D89593”. Figure 7 - 66 Diskpart - Set id= 17.
Modules 19. Go the Windows control panel and double-click Administrative Tools (System and Security)> Computer Management > Storage > Disk Management. 20. The disk partition should read Healthy Hibernation Partition. Figure 7 - 67 Computer Management (Healthy Hibernation Partition) Healthy (Hibernation Partition) 21.
Troubleshooting Chapter 8: Troubleshooting Overview Should you have any problems with your computer, before consulting your service representative, you may want to try to solve the problem yourself. This chapter lists some common problems and their possible solutions. This can’t anticipate every problem, but you should check here before you panic. If you don’t find the answer in these pages, make sure you have followed the instructions carefully and observed the safety precautions in the preface.
Troubleshooting Basic Hints and Tips Many of the following may seem obvious but they are often the solution to a problem when your computer ap- pears not to be working. • Power - Is the computer actually plugged into a working electrical outlet? If plugged into a power strip, make sure it is actually working.
Troubleshooting Backup and General Maintenance • Always backup your important data, and keep copies of your OS and programs safe, but close to hand. Don’t forget to note the serial numbers if you are storing them out of their original cases, e.g. in a CD wal- let.
Troubleshooting Viruses • Install an Anti-Virus program and keep the definitions file (the file which tells your program which viruses to look for) up to date. New computer viruses are discovered daily, and some of them may seriously harm your computer and cause you to lose data. Anti-Virus programs are commercially available and the defini- tions file updates are usually downloadable directly from the internet.
Troubleshooting Upgrading and Adding New Hardware/Software • Do not be tempted to make changes to your Windows Registry unless you are very sure of what you are doing, otherwise you will risk severely damaging your system. • Don’t open your computer or undertake any repair or upgrade work if you are not comfortable with what you are doing.
Page 270
Troubleshooting • Don’t over complicate things. The less you have to deal with then the easier the source of the problem may be found; Example - if your computer has many devices plugged into its ports, and a number of programs running, then it will be difficult to determine the cause of a problem.
Troubleshooting Problems and Possible Solutions Problem Possible Cause - Solution You turned on the power but it doesn’t Battery missing / incorrectly installed. Check the battery bay, make sure the work. battery is present and seated properly (the design of the battery only allows it to go in one way).
Page 272
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution The computer feels too hot. Make sure the computer is properly ventilated and the Vent/Fan intakes are not blocked. If this doesn’t cool it down, put the system into Hibernate mode or turn it off for an hour. Make sure the computer isn’t sitting on a thermal surface (see “Overheating”...
Page 273
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution You forget the boot password. If you forget the password, you may have to discharge the battery of the CMOS. Contact your service representative for help. Password Warning If you choose to set a boot password, NEVER forget your password. The consequences of this could be serious. If you cannot remember your boot password you must contact your vendor and you may lose all of the information on your hard disk.
Page 274
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution Other Keyboards If your keyboard is damaged or you just want to make a change, you can use any standard USB keyboard. The system will detect and enable it automatically. However special functions/hot keys unique to the system’s regular keyboard may not work.
Page 275
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution The Wireless LAN/Bluetooth modules The driver(s) for the module(s) have not been installed. Make sure you have cannot be configured. installed the driver for the appropriate module (see the instructions for the appropriate module in “Wireless LAN Module”...
Page 276
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution The computer is off (or in Sleep Mode) but The port is not powered on. Toggle power to the port using the Fn + power powered by the AC/DC adapter plugged in button combination. to a working outlet, or by battery with a capacity above 20%.
Page 277
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution I have used Update Driver in Device It is very important that the drivers are installed in the order indicated in Chapter Manager (Unknown device > Other 4 (which is the numbered installation order on the Device Drivers & Utilities + Devices) to try and install the Airplane User’s Manual disc).
Page 278
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution I have connected a Bluetooth Mouse but This is an issue with this type of mouse and the Intel Wireless 7260 WLAN and it loses the Bluetooth connection and Bluetooth combo module series. To resolve this issue do the following: no longer responds after a short period of Go to the Device Manager control panel in Windows.
Page 279
Troubleshooting Problem Possible Cause - Solution When using a Bluetooth headset the This is a common issue with Bluetooth headsets. To resolve this issue do the audio appears to be mono and not following (you will need to repeat this procedure after every boot up, restart, stereo.
Troubleshooting Changing The SATA Mode The SATA mode can be set operate in IDE (native/compatible), AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) or RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) modes, and needs to be done so before installing your operating system. If you wish to change your SATA mode to/from AHCI/RAID/IDE mode you will receive a message (see below) to notify you that doing so may prevent your operating system from booting, and may require a reinstall of the OS.
Troubleshooting Changing the System from AHCI or IDE Mode to RAID Mode Go to the operable computer and insert a USB Flash drive or external USB HDD. Insert the Device Drivers & Utilities + User’s Manual disc into the CD/DVD drive of the operable computer. Copy the f6flpy-x64 folder from the location below (D: denotes your DVD drive) on the Device Drivers &...
Page 282
Troubleshooting 14. You can now setup your RAID volume using any two installed disks. 15. Go to Name: and press <Enter>. 16. Type a name of your choice for your RAID volume and press <Enter>. Figure 8 - 4 - Name the RAID Volume (Advanced > Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology) 8 - 18 Problems and Possible Solutions...
Page 283
Troubleshooting 17. Go to RAID Level: and press <Enter>. 18. Choose the RAID Level required (see Table 7 - 1, on page 7 - 3 for details) and press <Enter>. • RAID0 (Stripe) • RAID1 (Mirror) • Recovery 19. Go to any of the disks listed under Select Disks: and select a disk name and press <Enter>. 20.
Page 284
Troubleshooting 21. You should select two identical disks to form your RAID volume. 22. If you have selected RAID0 (Stripe) then you can adjust the “Strip Size” to your requirements. 23. If you have selected Recovery then you can adjust the Synchronization to “On Request” or “Continuous”. 24.
Page 285
Troubleshooting 26. Press <Esc> to exit the menu. 27. Press <F4> and <Yes> to “Save Changes and Reset”, however ensure that the two conditions in the bulleted points below are met before doing so. • Make sure the Windows 8.1 OS DVD is in the DVD drive, as the computer starts up it will automatically boot from the Windows 8.1 OS DVD (you will be prompted to press a key to boot from the DVD).
Page 286
Troubleshooting 35. Type “select disk #” (the # is the number of the disk you wish to select and you will need to repeat the procedure for any of your installed disks) and press <Enter>. 36. The system will then prompt “Disk # is now the selected disk”. 37.
Troubleshooting Changing the System from RAID to AHCI Mode to IDE Mode If you wish to change from a RAID mode to AHCI or IDE modes you will need to delete any existing RAID by following the procedure below. However backup up any necessary files and data before deleting a RAID, as doing so will result in the loss of all data on the RAID volumes.
Page 288
Troubleshooting Start-up your notebook computer and press <F2> to enter the BIOS. Go to the Boot menu, select UEFI Setting and press <Enter> (see page 17). Set UEFI Boot to “Enabled”. Press <Esc> to exit the menu and go to the Advanced menu. 10.
Page 289
Troubleshooting 20. Type “select disk #” (the # is the number of the disk you wish to select and you will need to repeat the procedure for any of your installed disks) and press <Enter>. 21. The system will then prompt “Disk # is now the selected disk”. 22.
Interface (Ports & Jacks) Appendix A: Interface (Ports & Jacks) Overview The following chapter will give a quick description of the ports & jacks which allow your computer to commu- nicate with external devices, connect to the internet etc. Interface (Ports & Jacks) A - 1...
Interface (Ports & Jacks) Ports and Jacks Item Description Card Reader The card reader allows you to use the following digital storage cards: MMC (MultiMedia Card) / RSMMC SD (Secure Digital) / Mini SD / SDHC / SDXC MS (Memory Stick) / MS Pro / MS Duo Push the card into the slot and it will appear as a removable device.
Interface (Ports & Jacks) Item Description Headphone-Out Jack Headphones or speakers may be connected through this jack. Note: Set your system’s volume to a reduced level before connecting to this jack. Line-In Jack The Line-In jack allows you to play audio sources through the computer’s speakers. Note that audio input through Line-in will default to the mute setting.
Interface (Ports & Jacks) Item Description Thunderbolt Port The Thunderbolt port allows for the connection of external peripherals to the computer by combining PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort (DP) technologies. Up to seven peripherals may be supported by one connector by daisy-chaining the devices. Devices supported include HDDs/ SSDs, Audio Interfaces, docks, display devices, cameras etc.
Interface (Ports & Jacks) Item Description USB Ports USB (Universal Serial Bus) compatible ports are for low-speed peripherals such as keyboards, mice or scanners, and for high-speed peripherals such as external HDDs, digital video cameras or high-speed scanners etc. Devices can be plugged into the computer, and USB 3.0 Port unplugged from the computer, without the need to turn the system off (if the power rating of your USB device is 500mA or above, make sure you use the power supply which comes with the...
Control Center Appendix B: Control Center Overview The following chapter will give a quick description of the functions of the Control Center. The Control Center gives quick access to frequently used controls, power management features and enables you to quickly turn mod- ules on/off.
Page 298
Control Center Power Modes You can set a Power Mode by clicking the appropriate icon at the top of the Control Center. Each power mode will affect screen brightness, Touchpad and PC camera power etc. You can click a Control Center icon to set an overall power mode and then click individual icons in the Control Center to power on/off the Touchpad and PC camera.
Page 299
Control Center Power Status The Power Status icon will show whether you are currently powered by the battery, or by the AC/DC adapter plugged in to a working power outlet. The power status bar will show the current battery charge state. Brightness The Brightness icon will show the current screen brightness level.
Page 300
Control Center Sleep Click the Sleep button to bring up the Hibernate or Sleep buttons, and click either button to have the computer enter the appropriate power-saving mode (see “Power-Saving States” on page 3 - Display Switch Click the Display Switch button to access the menu (or use the + P key combination) and select the appro- priate attached display mode.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Appendix C: NVIDIA Video Driver Controls The basic settings for configuring the LCD are outlined in “Video Features” on page 1 - Video Card Options NVIDIA Video Driver Installation Note that card types, Make sure you install the drivers in the order indicated in Table 4 - 1, on page 4 - specifications and driv- ers are subject to contin-...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls NVIDIA Control Panel More advanced video configuration options are provided in the NVIDIA Control NVIDIA Control Panel tab. Panel Go to the Control Panel. To access the Ge- Double-click NVIDIA Control Panel (click to view the control panel in either Large Force..
Page 303
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls The NVIDIA Control Panel provides additional video configuration controls and tools which allow quick access to features such as display configuration, 3D Settings and Help menus etc. Navigating the Control Panel Navigate through the control panels in much the same way as you would a web page.
Page 304
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls The Help menus provide index and search features, and direct links to the NVIDIA website etc. Figure C - 3 Help Menu C - 4 NVIDIA Control Panel...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Display Devices Note that you can use an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable con- Sound Blaster nected to the HDMI-Out port and/or Thunderbolt compatible cable connected to the Audio & HDMI Thunderbolt port to connect an external display. See your display device manual to Connection see which formats are supported.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Configuring an External Display (NVIDIA) Clone the Displays Display Not Shown Attach your external display to the appropriate port, and turn it on. Go to NVIDIA Control Panel (see page If the attached display does not appear in the Double-click Display (if the sub-menus are not visible), and then click Set up “1.Select the displays multiple displays.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Extending the Display Attach your external display to the appropriate port, and turn it on. Go to NVIDIA Control Panel (see page Changing the Double-click Display (if the sub-menus are not visible), and then click Set up Primary Display on multiple displays.
Page 308
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls The Primary display (the main window display) will be denoted by an asterisk the top right corner of the icon. To change the Primary display right-click the icon and select Make primary. Click Apply > Yes to save any changes. Figure C - 6 Switch Primary Display...
Page 309
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls You can drag the icons to match the desktop layout you want to use (e.g. you may want to extend the display to the right or left of the primary display). 10. Click Apply > Yes to save any further changes. Figure C - 7 Drag Display Icons...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Multiple Display Connection to HDMI-Out Port & DisplayPort Note that the NVIDIA video cards can support up to two external displays (one attached to the HDMI-Out port and another attached to the Thunderbolt port), in ad- dition to the built-in LCD.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Attaching Other Displays - Devices (Charms Bar) You can configure attached displays from Devices (in the Charms Bar) Windows Logo Key + P Key Attach your external display to the appropriate port, and turn it on. Combination Go the Charms Bar, select Devices.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Configuring an External Display In Windows Attach your external display to the HDMI-Out port (and/or Thunderbolt port), and turn it on. Go to the Screen resolution control panel (see page 46) in the Desktop app. Click the Detect button. The computer will then detect any attached displays.
Page 313
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls You can configure the displays from the Multiple Displays menu. Figure C - 10 Screen Resolution Multiple Display Options • Duplicate these displays - Shows an exact copy of the main display desktop on the other display(s) •...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls NVIDIA SLI Multi GPU Configuration ® This computer features an NVIDIA Scalable Link Interface (SLI) that improves Video Card graphic quality and performance by combining dual NVIDIA GPUs (two video Options cards are required) in a single system. To enable/disable SLI Configuration: Note that card types, Go to NVIDIA Control Panel (see page specifications and driv-...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Manage 3D Settings You can configure the 3D global settings (to be applied to all application programs) or make specific adjustments for installed program settings. Go to NVIDIA Control Panel (see page Click Manage 3D Settings and select either Global Settings or Program Settings. Click the Setting menu items to select any global options required, or select a program to customize from the drop-down menu (click Add to add any program that does not appear in the menu).
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Adjust Video Settings You can adjust video color and image settings from the Video sub-menus. Go to NVIDIA Control Panel (see page Click “+” next to Video if its sub-items are not shown and then click either Adjust video color settings or Adjust video image settings.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls HDMI Audio Configuration As HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) carries both audio and video sig- nals you can configure the audio output from the NVIDIA control panel and Sound control panel. The settings will depend upon the external HDMI display you have connected to.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Audio Setup for HDMI In some cases it will be necessary to go to the Sound control panel and manually con- figure the HDMI audio output. Volume Adjustment The sound volume level Go to the Sound control panel. can be set using the vol- Click Playback (tab) ume control in the Set-...
Page 319
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Adjust the HDMI settings from the control panel tabs. Click OK to close the Sound control panel. Figure C - 16 HDMI Device Properties HDMI Audio Configuration C - 19...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls HDMI Notes • Connect a device with HDMI support to the HDMI-Out port BEFORE attempt- ing to play audio/video sources through the device. Other Applications • Under certain conditions, if the HDMI cable is disconnected, the default audio If you are using a third playback device will not revert to speakers until the computer is restarted (if you party application to play...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Sound Blaster Audio & HDMI When you connect an HDMI display to the HDMI-Out port, the Sound Blaster audio controls will be disabled. A warning box will pop-up and will prompt “..Do you want to select another audio device now?”.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls HDCP Status If your external display is HDCP (High Bandwith Digital Content protection) com- patible then the NVIDIA control panel will display the HDCP system status. Figure C - 18 HDCP Status C - 22 HDMI Audio Configuration...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls NVIDIA 3D Shutter Glasses Kit (for Model C Computers Only) NVIDIA Driver The NVIDIA 3DVISION shutter glasses kit is supported only by Model B comput- ers with a 17.3"(43.94cm) FHD 120Hz panel and GTX 680M video card. Install the Install the NVIDIA driv- er (see “Video (VGA) -...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Stereoscopic 3D Hardware Setup This computer (Model C Computers Only) features a built-in 3D IR emitter. The effective viewing angles of the emitter are illustrated overleaf. Make sure that you are viewing the notebook screen within the area highlighted overleaf in order to get the proper stereoscopic 3D effect.
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Viewing Angles The emitter’s horizontal viewing angle is 100 degrees. The emitter’s vertical viewing angle is 75 degrees. Figure C - 20 Emitter - Viewing Angles 75° NVIDIA 3D Shutter Glasses Kit C - 25...
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls Set Up Stereoscopic 3D Make sure your 3D glasses are powered on, connected to the USB cable provided and that the cable is plugged-in to one of the computer’s USB ports (check the documenta- NVIDIA Control tion provided with the glasses kit for latest information on the glasses setup).
Page 327
NVIDIA Video Driver Controls During the setup procedure you will need to click to answer questions on what you see in 3D on the screen. Configure the stereoscopic 3D from the control panels (make sure you charge the 3D shutter glasses by plugging them into one of the computer’s USB ports using the USB cable provided).
AMD Video Driver Controls Appendix D: AMD Video Driver Controls The basic settings for configuring the LCD are outlined in “Video Features” on page 1 - Video Card Options AMD Video Driver Installation Note that card types, Make sure you install the drivers in the order indicated in Table 4 - 1, on page 4 - specifications and driv- 1.
AMD Video Driver Controls AMD Catalyst Control Center ™ Adjust the video settings from the Catalyst™ Control Center. Taskbar Icon Right-click the desktop and select t Catalyst Control Center. The Catalyst Control Center can also be ac- Click Advanced settings in the Screen Resolution control panel (see “Video cessed by double-clicking Features”...
Page 331
AMD Video Driver Controls Catalyst™ Control Center Preferences The Preferences button in the Catalyst Control Center menu allows you to con- ™ figure the control panel settings. You can view the control panel in either Standard Preferences & View or Advanced View. To display Standard View or Advanced View: Views Open the Catalyst ™...
Page 332
AMD Video Driver Controls Standard View The Standard View menus feature a series of menu headings with clickable sub- menus which allow you to adjust Desktops and Displays, Power, Video, Gaming and Information. Click the Start button to access the top level menu from any sub- menu heading.
Page 333
AMD Video Driver Controls Advanced View The Advanced View menus display all the menu headings as a series of buttons on the left. Click the arrows in any button to display the sub-menus (note all the figures Sub-Menus in the remainder of this chapter are in Advanced View). Click a menu button to expand any sub-menus, and then click the appro-...
Page 334
AMD Video Driver Controls The Catalyst Control Center provides additional video configuration controls ™ and tools which allow quick access to features such as display options, 3D Settings, color, power and Information menus etc. Adjust settings from the options in the sub- Help Menus menus.
AMD Video Driver Controls Display Devices & Options Note that you can use the HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable con- Sound Blaster nected to the HDMI-Out port or DisplayPort cable connected to the DisplayPort to Audio & HDMI connect an external display. See your display device manual to see which formats Connection are supported.
AMD Video Driver Controls Configuring an External Display In the CCC You can use the Catalyst Control Center to configure any attached displays. ™ Detect Displays Attach your external display to the appropriate port, and turn it on. Open the Catalyst ™ Control Center. Click Detect Displays (button) to automati- Select Desktop Management from the menu on the left (click the arrow to expand...
Page 337
AMD Video Driver Controls Click the triangle icon (or right-click the display icon) on the attached display icon at the bottom to bring up the options (e.g Duplicate or Extend). Select an option from the menu (click Continue if required), and click Yes to Disable Displays accept the settings.
Page 338
AMD Video Driver Controls My Digital Flat-Panels An additional menu button entitled My Digital Flat-Panels will appear when an ex- ternal digital display is attached. This menu allows you to configure the properties of the external display. After making any adjustments you may need to click the Ap- ply button to confirm the changes.
Page 339
AMD Video Driver Controls HDTV Support If your flat panel supports HDTV functions then this can be configured from My Digital Flat-Panels > HDTV Support (Digital Flat-Panel). Figure D - 9 My Digital Flat- Panels (HDTV Support) Display Devices & Options D - 11...
AMD Video Driver Controls Attaching Other Displays - Devices (Charms Bar) You can configure attached displays from Devices (in the Charms Bar) Windows Logo Key + P Key Attach your external display to the appropriate port, and turn it on. Combination Go the Charms Bar, select Devices.
AMD Video Driver Controls Configuring an External Display In Windows Attach your external display to the HDMI-Out port (and/or Thunderbolt port), and turn it on. Go to the Screen resolution control panel (see page 41) in the Desktop app. Click the Detect button. The computer will then detect any attached displays.
Page 342
AMD Video Driver Controls You can configure the displays from the Multiple Displays menu. Figure D - 12 Screen Resolution Multiple Display Options • Duplicate these displays - Shows an exact copy of the main display desktop on the other display(s) •...
Page 343
AMD Video Driver Controls PowerPlay™ When enabled, PowerPlay can be used to automatically set to adjust the graphics ™ processor settings for higher performance or longer battery life when the system is either Plugged In or on Battery. Figure D - 13 PowerPlay ™...
AMD Video Driver Controls AMD CrossFireX ™ Multi GPU Configuration The Gaming menu includes configuration options for AMD CrossFireX ™. CrossFireX combines the processing power of multiple GPUs to s single display, ™ and this may be enabled/disabled from the AMD CrossFireX Configuration ™...
AMD Video Driver Controls HDMI Audio Configuration HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) carries both audio and video signals. Volume Adjustment Configure the audio output as per the instructions below. The sound volume level Go to the Sound control panel. can be set using the vol- Click Playback (tab) ume control in the Set- The playback device will be selected.
Page 346
AMD Video Driver Controls Adjust the HDMI settings from the control panel tabs. Click OK to close the Sound control panel. Figure D - 17 HDMI Device Properties D - 18 HDMI Audio Configuration...
Page 347
AMD Video Driver Controls HDMI Notes • Connect a device with HDMI support to the HDMI-Out port BEFORE attempt- ing to play audio/video sources through the device. Other Applications • To play audio sources through your external display’s (TV or LCD) speakers If you are using a third you will need to go to the audio configuration control panel on the display and party...
Page 348
AMD Video Driver Controls Sound Blaster Audio & HDMI When you connect an HDMI display to the HDMI-Out port, the Sound Blaster audio controls will be disabled. A warning box will pop-up and will prompt “..Do you want to select another audio device now?”.
Page 349
AMD Video Driver Controls Audio You can use Audio menu in the Catalyst Control Center to configure any at- ™ tached audio device. Figure D - 19 Audio HDMI Audio Configuration D - 21...
Specifications Appendix E: Specifications Latest Specification Information The specifications listed in this Appendix are correct at the time of going to press. Certain items (particularly processor types/ speeds and CD/DVD device types) may be changed, updated or delayed due to the manufacturer's release schedule. Check with your distributor/supplier for details.
Specifications For Models A, B & D Only: For Models A, B & D Only: One built-in Subwoofer Speaker NVIDIA® GeForce GTX 770M PCIe * 8 NVIDIA® Quadro K5100M PCIe * 8 Sound Blaster® X-Fi™ MB3 Video Card (Dual VGA PCIe 8*2) Video Card External 7.1CH Audio output supported 3GB GDDR5 Video RAM...
Specifications Interface Slots Intel® Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 (2*2 802.11 a/c) Half Mini-Card PCIe WLAN Four USB 3.0 Ports (Including one AC/ Three Mini-Card Slots: Bluetooth Combo Module (Factory Op- DC Powered USB Port) tion) Slot 1 for WLAN & Bluetooth Combo Half One eSATA Port (USB 2.0 Combo) Mini-Card Module with PCIe and USB Intel®...
Specifications BIOS Indicators Environmental Spec One 48Mb SPI Flash ROM LED Indicators (Power/Suspend, Battery, Temperature HDD/ODD, Airplane Mode, Num Lock, ° ° AMI BIOS Operating: C - 35 Caps Lock, Scroll Lock, *Camera, TP) Non-Operating: -20°C - 60°C Security *Camera LED is located on camera Relative Humidity module Operating:...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the X7 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers