Gateway computer User Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Gateway Manuals
  4. Desktop
  5. Computer
  6. User manual
Gateway computer User Manual

Gateway computer User Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for computer:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

See also: Reference Manual
GATEWAY COMPUTER
USERGUIDE
®

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the computer and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Gateway computer

Summary of Contents for Gateway computer

  • Page 1 GATEWAY COMPUTER USERGUIDE ®...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Chapter 1: Getting Help......... . . 1 Thank you for purchasing our computer! ....... . 2 Using the Gateway Web site .
  • Page 4 Receiving and viewing a fax ......... 54 Chapter 6: Protecting Your Computer....... 55 Hardware security .
  • Page 5 Manually updating the Media Center Program Guide ....89 Chapter 8: Networking Your Computer ......91 Introduction to Networking .
  • Page 6 Cleaning your computer ........
  • Page 7 Moving from your old computer ........
  • Page 8 Contents...

  • Page 9: Chapter 1 Getting Help

    CHAPTER Getting Help • Using the Gateway Web site • Using Help and Support • Using online help...

  • Page 10: Thank You For Purchasing Our Computer

    Thanks again, from all of us at Gateway. Using the Gateway Web site Gateway’s online support is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week and provides the most current drivers, product specifications, tutorials, and personalized information about your...

  • Page 11: Using Help And Support

    Your computer includes Help and Support, an easily accessible collection of help information, troubleshooters, and automated support. Use Help and Support to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and use the many features of your Gateway computer. To start Help and Support: •...

  • Page 12: Getting Help In Media Center

    CHAPTER 1: Getting Help Getting help in Media Center If your computer has Windows XP Media Center Edition, you can access online help or refer to the printed Windows XP Media Center Edition Guide. To access Media Center help: In the Media Center window, move the mouse to activate the Media Center tool bar. The tool bar appears at the top of the window.

  • Page 13: Using Online Help

    Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the back or side of your computer includes the product key code for your operating system. If you ever reinstall Windows from the...
  • Page 14 CHAPTER 1: Getting Help...

  • Page 15: Chapter 2: Using Your Computer

    CHAPTER Using Your Computer • Working safely • Setting up your computer and computer accessories • Starting your computer • Turning off your computer • Restarting (rebooting) your computer • Using the keyboard • Using the mouse • Adjusting the volume •...

  • Page 16: Working Safely

    Setting up your computer desk and chair When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make sure that the desk is the appropriate height and the chair helps you maintain good posture.

  • Page 17: Setting Up Your Computer And Computer Accessories

    An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your work and shut down your computer...

  • Page 18: Checking The Voltage Selection

    When you have not used your computer for several minutes, it may enter a power-saving mode called Standby. While in Standby, the power indicator flashes. If your computer is in Standby mode, move the mouse or press the power button to “wake” it up.

  • Page 19: Turning Off Your Computer

    Click Turn Off. Windows shuts down and turns off your computer. Restarting (rebooting) your computer If your computer does not respond to keyboard or mouse input, you may have to close programs that are not responding. If closing unresponsive programs does not restore your computer to normal operation, you may have to restart (reboot) your computer.

  • Page 20: Using The Keyboard

    CHAPTER 2: Using Your Computer Using the keyboard Premium multimedia keyboard features The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active. Function keys Indicators Audio playback buttons...

  • Page 21: Elite Multimedia Keyboard Features

    Icon Description Sleep button Press this button to activate your computer’s Sleep (power-saving) mode. Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.

  • Page 22: Using The Mouse

    CHAPTER 2: Using Your Computer Using the mouse The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer display. This illustration shows the standard mouse. Scroll wheel Right button Left button As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the display moves in the same direction.

  • Page 23: Adjusting The Volume

    Support. Type adjusting volume in the Search box, then press E NTER You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls or the Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of specific sound devices in your computer. To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls: •...
  • Page 24 CHAPTER 2: Using Your Computer To adjust the overall volume from Windows: Click , then click . The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel Start Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices Click/Double-click the .

  • Page 25: Configuring The Audio Jacks

    If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks. This means that they can be used for more than one purpose. For example, the blue jack on the computer can be a stereo in jack or a stereo out jack. For more information on how each jack can be used, see your hardware reference.

  • Page 26: Connecting To A Cable Or Dsl Modem Or To A Wired Ethernet Network

    “Networking Your Computer” on page Your computer has a network jack that you can use to connect to a cable or DSL modem or to a 10/100 wired Ethernet network. To connect to a cable or DSL modem or to an Ethernet network:...

  • Page 27: Chapter 3: Using Windows Xp

    CHAPTER Using Windows XP • Using the Windows desktop • Working with files and folders • Searching for files • Working with documents • Shortcuts...

  • Page 28: Using The Windows Desktop

    CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP Using the Windows desktop After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop. The desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your personalized work space where you open programs and perform other tasks.

  • Page 29: Using The Start Menu

    Using the Start menu Help For more information about the Windows Start menu, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type Windows Start menu in the Search box, then press E NTER You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for files and folders, and more using the Start menu.

  • Page 30: Identifying Window Items

    When you double-click the icon for a drive, folder, file, or program, a window opens on the desktop. This example shows the Local Disk (C:) window, which opens after you double-click the Local Disk (C:) icon in the My Computer window. Title bar...

  • Page 31: Working With Files And Folders

    Support. Type files and folders in the Search box, then press E NTER Drives are like file cabinets because they hold files and folders. A computer almost always has more than one drive. Each drive has a letter, usually Local Disk (C:) for the hard drive and 3½...

  • Page 32: Creating Folders

    Folders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They can contain files and other folders. Files are much like paper documents—letters, spreadsheets, and pictures—that you keep on your computer. In fact, all information on a computer is stored in files. Folders...

  • Page 33: Deleting Files And Folders

    Help and Support. Type deleting files and folders in the Search Help box, then press E NTER In My Computer or Windows Explorer, click the files or folders that you want to delete. For instructions on how to select multiple files and folders, see “Shortcuts” on page If you cannot find the file you want to delete, see “Searching for files”...

  • Page 34: Searching For Files

    CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP To empty the Recycle Bin: Caution Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently erases any files or folders in the bin. These files cannot be restored. Help For more information about emptying the Recycle Bin, click Start, then click Help and Support.

  • Page 35: Using The Windows Search Utility

    Using the Windows Search utility Help For more information about searching for files and folders, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type searching in the Search box, then press E NTER To find files and folders using the Search utility: Click Start, then click Search.

  • Page 36: Browsing For Files And Folders

    E NTER Click Start, then click My Computer. The My Computer window opens. Double-click the drive or folder that you think contains the file or folder that you want to find. If you do not see the contents of a folder, click Show the contents of this drive or Show the contents of this folder.

  • Page 37: Working With Documents

    Working with documents Computer documents include word processing files, spreadsheet files, or other similar files. The basic methods of creating, saving, opening, and printing a document apply to most of these types of files. ® The following examples show how to create, save, open, and print a document using Microsoft WordPad.

  • Page 38: Saving A Document

    CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP Saving a document Help For more information about saving documents, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type saving in the Search box, then press E NTER After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later. To save a document: Click File, then click Save.

  • Page 39: Printing A Document

    Support. Type printing in the Search box, then press E NTER To print a document, you must have a printer connected to your computer or have access to a network printer. For more information about installing or using your printer, see the printer documentation.

  • Page 40: Shortcuts

    CHAPTER 3: Using Windows XP Shortcuts Help For more information about keyboard shortcuts, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type Windows keyboard shortcuts in the Search box, then press E NTER The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and almost all programs that run in Windows.

  • Page 41: Chapter 4: Recovering Your System

    CHAPTER Recovering Your System • System recovery options • Drivers and applications recovery • Recovering your system...

  • Page 42: System Recovery Options

    You can use drivers and applications recovery discs to restore device drivers or programs. You can create an unlimited number of drivers and applications recovery disc sets. Before you continue, make sure that your computer has a recordable drive. If your computer does not have a recordable drive, see...
  • Page 43 Make sure that you have blank discs ready. Depending on the type of recordable drive your computer has, you need either several CD-R discs or one DVD-R or DVD+R disc. Click Start, All Programs, System Recovery, then click Create My Drivers-Applications CD(s).

  • Page 44: Copying Drivers And Applications Recovery Files To A Network

    Copying drivers and applications recovery files to a network You can copy driver and application recovery files to a network location, so you can burn unlimited sets of drivers and applications recovery discs from a different computer that has a recordable drive.

  • Page 45: Creating Discs From Recovery Files On A Network

    When you see the message “The Recovery ISO Image has been created successfully,” click OK. You are done. Store your recovery (ISO) images in a folder that indicates which computer the files are for. For example, store the files for a Gateway 7200XL in a folder named GW 7200XL Apps Recovery.

  • Page 46: Recovering Your System

    If you have problems with your computer and you need to recover your system, you can restore specific drivers and programs from a set of recovery discs, roll back your system to a previous condition when drivers and programs were working correctly, or reinstall everything from the computer’s hard drive.

  • Page 47: Recovering Specific Files And Software

    The Application Recovery program opens. - OR - Turn on your computer, then insert the drivers and applications recovery disc #1 (if available) into the CD or DVD drive. The Application Recovery program opens. Click the driver or application you want to install. To select multiple items, press and hold while clicking each item.

  • Page 48: Recovering Your System Using Microsoft System Restore

    Every time you install new device drivers or software, and every 24 hours (while your computer is turned on), Microsoft System Restore takes a “snapshot” of your system settings and saves it as a restore point.

  • Page 49: Recovering Your System From The Hard Drive

    Recovering your system from the hard drive To recover from the hard drive: Get the operating system disc that came with your computer and have it ready. If you can still run Windows, click Start, All Programs, System Recovery, System Recovery, then click Yes.
  • Page 50 Click a system recovery option: • Full System Restore (Destructive) reformats the hard drive and restores the system software as it was when you purchased your computer. This process deletes your data files. • Full System Restore with Backup (recommended) moves the contents of the hard drive to the C:\My Backup folder and installs a new copy of Windows XP.

  • Page 51: Chapter 5: Using The Internet And Faxing

    CHAPTER Using the Internet and Faxing • Learning about the Internet • Setting up an Internet account • Using the World Wide Web • Using e-mail • Installing and configuring Microsoft Fax • Sending a fax • Receiving and viewing a fax...

  • Page 52: Learning About The Internet

    The two most popular services on the Internet are e-mail and the World Wide Web. You can access this network by connecting your computer to a telephone, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), or cable television line and signing up with an Internet service provider (ISP).

  • Page 53: Setting Up An Internet Account

    Internet service provider (ISP). To set up an ISP service or to transfer an existing account to this computer, contact the ISP directly. Dial-up Internet connections are those using a telephone system to connect to the Internet. This may include ordinary analog telephone lines, ISDN connections, and in some cases ADSL over PPP, or other technologies.

  • Page 54: Connecting To A Web Site

    E NTER The Web browser locates the server computer on the Internet, downloads (transfers) data to your computer, and displays the page on the site that you requested. Sometimes Web pages display slowly. The speed that a Web page displays on your screen depends on the complexity of the Web page and other Internet conditions.

  • Page 55: Downloading Files

    Follow the on-screen instructions for saving the file in the folder that you want. A copy of the file is downloaded to your computer. The time that it takes to transfer the file to your computer depends on file size and Internet conditions.

  • Page 56: Sending E-Mail

    Click Start, then click E-Mail. Your default e-mail program opens. Click Send/Recv. Double-click the message you want to read. To protect your computer from viruses, check any e-mail attachments using McAfee SecurityCenter. For more information, see “Protecting your computer from viruses” on...

  • Page 57: Installing And Configuring Microsoft Fax

    Installing Fax Microsoft Fax lets you send and receive faxes using your dial-up modem. When Windows was originally installed on your computer, Fax may not have been installed. To install Fax: Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. Click/Double-click Add and Remove Programs.
  • Page 58 Step 7. The Routing Options screen opens. If you set up your computer to receive faxes, select a folder you want to store received faxes in and a printer you want to print received faxes on, then click Next. The Configuration Summary screen opens.

  • Page 59: Setting Up Your Cover Page Template

    If the Windows Security Alert dialog box opens, click Unblock. Setting up your cover page template You can create your own cover page template that you can use in place of the cover page templates that Microsoft Fax provides for you. To create a cover page template, you use the Fax Cover Page Editor.

  • Page 60: Sending A Fax

    CHAPTER 5: Using the Internet and Faxing Sending a fax Sending a quick fax You can use the Send Fax Wizard to send a simple one-page fax to one or more recipients. To send a simple fax: Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Communications, Fax, then click Send a Fax. The Send Fax Wizard opens.

  • Page 61: Faxing A Scanned Document

    Faxing from programs To fax a document directly from most programs: Open your document in the program it was created in. Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens. Click the arrow button to open the Name list, then click the Fax printer.

  • Page 62: Receiving And Viewing A Fax

    CHAPTER 5: Using the Internet and Faxing Automatically canceling a fax If your computer tried to send a fax and failed to connect to a fax machine, you can automatically cancel a failed fax. To automatically cancel a failed fax: Click Start, then click Control Panel.

  • Page 63: Chapter 6: Protecting Your Computer

    CHAPTER Protecting Your Computer • Hardware security • Data security • Security updates...

  • Page 64: Hardware Security

    The first step in computer security is preventing your computer from being stolen. Attach a cable lock to the Kensington lock slot on the back of your computer, then wrap the cable lock to a solid object like a desk or table. You can buy a cable lock at most electronics stores and many department stores.

  • Page 65: About Windows Xp User Accounts

    When you set up a user account, you can also limit the programs that a user can install or run. Protecting your computer from viruses A virus is a program that attaches itself to a file on a computer, then spreads from one computer to another. Viruses can damage data or cause your computer to malfunction. Some viruses go undetected for a period of time because they are activated on a certain date.

  • Page 66: Using Mcafee Securitycenter

    Phishing scams. Using McAfee SecurityCenter You received your computer with McAfee VirusScan, McAfee Personal Firewall, and McAfee Spamkiller turned on and McAfee Privacy Service turned off. To turn on the Privacy Service as well as keep the other services turned on, you must connect to the Internet and register McAfee SecurityCenter when prompted.
  • Page 67 To remove a virus: If McAfee SecurityCenter finds a virus, follow all on-screen instructions to remove the virus. Turn off your computer and leave it off for at least 30 seconds. Turn on your computer and rescan for the virus.

  • Page 68: Using Windows Xp Security Center

    Important To update McAfee SecurityCenter after the subscription period expires, you must extend your subscription. You should update your virus definitions regularly to protect your computer from the latest viruses. To update your virus definitions: Make sure that you are connected to the Internet.

  • Page 69: Security Updates

    Security updates To keep your computer secure, you need to keep Windows XP and your computer’s system software up to date. Windows Update If a hacker finds a way to bypass the security features built into Windows XP, Microsoft creates a high-priority Windows update to fix the problem.

  • Page 70: Bigfix

    Make your changes to the schedule settings, then click OK. BigFix Your computer may include BigFix. BigFix monitors your computer for problems and conflicts. It automatically gathers information about the latest bugs, security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet. Whenever BigFix detects a problem, it alerts you by flashing the blue...

  • Page 71: Chapter 7: Using Drives And Ports

    CHAPTER Using Drives and Ports • Using the diskette drive • Using the memory card reader • Using the CD or DVD drive • Playing music and movies • Creating audio files and music libraries • Creating and editing videos •...

  • Page 72: Using The Diskette Drive

    Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up. To access a file on the diskette, click Start, then click My Computer. Double-click the diskette drive letter (for example, the A: drive), then double-click the file name.

  • Page 73: Memory Card Types

    To insert a memory card: Insert the memory card into the memory card slot as indicated in the previous table. To access a file on the memory card, click Start, then click My Computer. Double-click the drive letter (for example, the drive), then double-click the file name.

  • Page 74: Using The Cd Or Dvd Drive

    You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features. Identifying drive types Your Gateway computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive for one or more of the following logos: If your drive has this logo...

  • Page 75: Inserting A Cd Or Dvd

    A standard Compact Disc (CD) holds an entire album of digital songs, and can be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive. Use the music program or Windows Media Player on your computer to: • Play music CDs •...

  • Page 76: Creating Cds And Dvds

    Creating CDs and DVDs You can use the CD and DVD burning program on your computer to copy tracks from a music CD to your hard drive, copy or create data CDs and DVDs, create music CDs, create video DVDs, and more.

  • Page 77: Playing Audio And Video Files

    CDs on your computer. Important To watch a DVD you must have a DVD drive in your computer. If you do not have a DVD drive and would like to add an internal or external drive, visit the Accessory Store accessories.gateway.com.
  • Page 78 CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports Playing a CD or DVD using Windows Media Player Use Windows Media Player to listen to CDs or watch DVDs. For more information about using Windows Media Player, click Help. To play a CD or DVD: Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in and that the volume is turned up.
  • Page 79 Playing a DVD using CyberLink PowerDVD To play a DVD using CyberLink PowerDVD: Help For more information about playing DVDs using CyberLink PowerDVD, click Start, All Programs, CyberLink PowerDVD, then click PowerDVD Help. Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in and that the volume is turned up.

  • Page 80: Creating Audio Files And Music Libraries

    “Playing WAV audio files” on page To record a WAV audio file: Plug a microphone into one of the Microphone jacks on your computer. For the location of the Microphone jacks, see your computer’s hardware reference. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, then click Sound Recorder. The Sound Recorder opens.
  • Page 81 Some music CDs have copy protection software. You cannot copy tracks from these CDs. Using Windows Media Player, you can copy the tracks from a music CD to your computer’s hard drive as WMA or MP3 files. WMA and MP3 are methods for digitally compressing high-fidelity music into compact files without noticeably sacrificing quality.

  • Page 82: Building A Music Library

    CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports Building a music library Use Windows Media Player to build a music library. You can organize your music tracks (individual MP3 or WMA audio files) by categories, find a track quickly by sorting, and add information to a music file.

  • Page 83: Creating And Editing Videos

    Creating and editing videos If your home video camera supports it, it can be connected to your computer so that you can download video from the camera as data files. You can also create video from a Web cam attached to your computer.

  • Page 84: Editing Your Video

    Help, then click Help Topics in Windows Movie Maker. Editing your video After your video file is captured on your computer, you can edit it. Some of the edits you can make to your video include: •...

  • Page 85: Creating Music Cds And Video Dvds

    Creating music CDs and video DVDs Creating a music CD Important We recommend that you do not use your computer for other tasks while creating CDs or DVDs. If you record copyrighted material on a CD or DVD, you need permission from the copyright owner.
  • Page 86 CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports Click Edit Playlist. The Edit Playlist dialog box opens. Click songs in the left column to add them to the playlist. After all the songs are added to your list, click OK. Click Start Burn. Creating a music CD using CyberLink Power2Go To create a music CD: Insert a blank, writable CD into your CD or DVD drive.
  • Page 87 Click Music Disc in the left column, select CD in the right column, then click OK. The Select a Burning Task dialog box closes. In the top pane, browse to the folder that contains the files or folders you want to burn to the CD, then click to select the file or folder.

  • Page 88: Creating A Video Dvd

    TV programs that have been recorded with Media Center can be recorded to DVD and replayed on another Media Center computer or on a non-Media Center computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as PowerDVD) installed. The non-Media Center computer must also have Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or later, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update.
  • Page 89 Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box. Click Video/Photo Disc in the left column, select your disc type in the right column, then click OK. The Select a Burning Task dialog box closes.
  • Page 90 To create a video DVD using Windows Media Center: Important We recommend that you do not use your computer for other tasks while creating CDs or DVDs. If you record copyrighted material on a CD or DVD, you need permission from the copyright owner.

  • Page 91: Creating And Copying Data Cds And Dvds

    Some CDs have copy protection software. You cannot create MP3 files from these CDs and you may not be able to listen to these CDs on your computer. Insert a blank, writable CD or DVD into your CD or DVD drive.
  • Page 92 CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box. Click Data Disc in the left column, select your disc type in the right column, then click OK. The Select a Burning Task dialog box closes.
  • Page 93 After you select all your files, click . The Configuration/Information dialog box opens. If you have one CD or DVD burner, click Burn. The Burning dialog box opens and Power2Go burns the files to the CD or DVD. -OR- If you have more than one CD or DVD burner, select the burner, then click Burn.

  • Page 94: Copying A Cd Or Dvd

    CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports Copying a CD or DVD To copy a disc: Click Start, All Programs, CyberLink DVD Solution, Power2Go, then click Power2Go. Power2Go opens along with the Select a Burning Task dialog box. Click Copy disc in the left column, then click OK. The Copy Disc dialog box opens. Insert the music CD, data CD, or data DVD you want to copy into your CD or DVD drive.

  • Page 95: Advanced Multimedia Software Features

    Click Copy. The Burning dialog box opens. If you are using one drive, Power2Go copies the tracks or files to your hard drive. If you are using two drives, Power2Go copies the tracks from the source disc to the blank, recordable disc.

  • Page 96: Using Windows Media Center

    CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports Using Windows Media Center If your computer came with Windows Media Center installed and with a Media Center remote control (optional), you can use the remote control to watch TV, videos, and DVDs, to listen to music, and to view photos.

  • Page 97: Manually Updating The Media Center Program Guide

    Lets you enter numbers and characters from the remote control. keypad/data entry button Power button Puts the Media Center computer in Standby mode (reduced power). Transport buttons Let you replay recorded (buffered) TV and radio programs and play the CD and DVD player.
  • Page 98 CHAPTER 7: Using Drives and Ports...

  • Page 99: Chapter 8: Networking Your Computer

    CHAPTER Networking Your Computer • Introduction to Networking • Creating an Ethernet network • Testing your network • Sharing resources • Using the network • Adding a printer to your network...

  • Page 100: Introduction To Networking

    The most common way to set up an Ethernet network is Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP) using a router. A DHCP network configuration uses a router to automatically assign IP addresses to each computer or network device. For information on setting up a router, see the router’s documentation.
  • Page 101 Determining if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer To determine if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer: Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and Maintenance.

  • Page 102: Creating An Ethernet Network

    Type a unique computer name in the Computer name box. This name identifies the computer to other users on the network. Use a computer name of up to 15 characters with no blank spaces. Each computer name must be unique on your network. All-numeric computer names are not allowed.

  • Page 103: Configuring The Tcp/Ip Protocol

    This number will be the same on all computers on a home network. Using a DHCP server In order to use the TCP/IP protocol on each computer with a router or access point router, you must set the protocol to “Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server.”...

  • Page 104: Setting Up An Ethernet Network

    Click OK to close the Local Area Connection Properties dialog box. Click X to close the Network Connections window. Repeat this procedure for every computer on your network. Setting up an Ethernet network We recommend using category 5, unshielded, twisted-pair cable (approximately 1/4-inch diameter with a thin outer-jacket, containing eight color-coded wires), and equipment compatible with this type of cable.

  • Page 105: Configuring Your Router

    Broadband Internet connection (cable or DSL modem), we recommend the use of a router. A router lets you access the Internet connection from any network computer. The router can assign IP addresses to the computers on the network and can provide firewall protection for your network as well.

  • Page 106: Testing Your Network

    Follow the instructions included with your printer to install the printer drivers on each computer. After the drives and printers on each network computer are shared, you can access them as though they were attached directly to your computer. Then you can: •...
  • Page 107 Un-sharing drives and folders To un-share drives or folders: In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right-click the drive or folder that you want to un-share, then click Sharing and Security. Make sure that the Share this folder on the network check box is not selected.

  • Page 108: Using The Network

    Mapping a network drive After a drive or folder on one computer is mapped as a drive on another computer, the contents of the drive or folder can be accessed as if the drive were attached directly to the computer.

  • Page 109: Copying Files Across The Network

    Click the arrow button to open the printer name list, then click the network printer. Click OK. Adding a printer to your network Instead of plugging a printer into your computer, you can add a printer to your network. To add a printer to the network, do one of the following: •...
  • Page 110 CHAPTER 8: Networking Your Computer...

  • Page 111: Chapter 9: Customizing Your Computer

    CHAPTER Customizing Your Computer • Adjusting the screen and desktop settings • Using a second monitor • Viewing the display on a television • Changing the mouse settings • Adding and modifying user accounts • Changing power-saving settings...

  • Page 112: Adjusting The Screen And Desktop Settings

    CHAPTER 9: Customizing Your Computer Adjusting the screen and desktop settings If you are using a monitor, you can adjust the screen settings for brightness, contrast, and horizontal and vertical image position using the controls on the front of your monitor.

  • Page 113: Adjusting The Screen Resolution

    Category View, click Appearance and Themes. Click/Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box opens. Click the Settings tab. Single-monitor computer Dual-monitor computer Drag the Screen resoluocmtion slider to the size you prefer. Click OK, then click Yes.

  • Page 114: Changing The Colors On Your Windows Desktop

    CHAPTER 9: Customizing Your Computer Changing the colors on your Windows desktop You can change the colors of Windows desktop items, such as the background color and dialog box title bars. To change desktop colors: Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Appearance and Themes.

  • Page 115: Changing The Desktop Background

    Changing the desktop background Help For more information about changing the desktop background, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type changing desktop background in the Search Help box, then press E NTER You can change the Windows desktop background picture. Windows provides several backgrounds, or you can use pictures that you have created or retrieved from other sources.

  • Page 116: Selecting A Screen Saver

    If you are using a monitor (not a flat-panel display), an image may get burned in on your monitor screen if you leave your computer on for long periods of time without using it. You should use a screen saver which constantly changes its image to avoid this damage.

  • Page 117: Using An Extended Desktop

    Using an extended desktop If your computer supports dual monitors (it must have multiple monitor ports), you can use a second monitor to roughly double the size of your Windows desktop. You can use the additional desktop space to accommodate additional windows.

  • Page 118: Viewing The Display On A Television

    DVD. DVD playback to a VCR will be scrambled by copyright protection software. The video out or S-Video out jack on your computer lets you view your display on a television screen using a standard RCA or S-Video cable.
  • Page 119 Click the Enable TV button if it is not already enabled, then click Apply. Important If the Enable TV and TV buttons are grayed out, your computer has not detected the television. Make sure that the television is turned on and connected...

  • Page 120: Modifying Television Settings

    CHAPTER 9: Customizing Your Computer Modifying television settings To modify television settings: On the Multiple Monitors Properties dialog box Displays tab, click TV. The TV Properties dialog box opens. Modify the settings, then click OK.

  • Page 121: Changing The Mouse Settings

    Click OK to save changes. Adding and modifying user accounts You can create and customize a user account for each person who uses your computer. You can also change between user accounts without turning off your computer. User account tips •...
  • Page 122 CHAPTER 9: Customizing Your Computer To add, delete, or modify user accounts: Click Start, then click Control Panel. Click/Double-click the User Accounts icon. The User Accounts window opens. Help For more information about user accounts, click Start, then click Help and Support.

  • Page 123: Changing Power-Saving Settings

    Changing power-saving settings Changing the power scheme Help For more information about changing the power scheme, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type power scheme in the Search Help box, then press E NTER Power schemes (groups of power settings) let you change power saving options such as when the monitor or hard drive is automatically turned off.

  • Page 124: Activating And Using Hibernate Mode

    Hibernate (also called save to disk) writes all current memory (RAM) information to the hard drive, then turns your computer completely off. The next time you turn on your computer, it reads the memory information from the hard drive and opens the programs and documents that were open when you activated Hibernate mode.

  • Page 125: Installing An Uninterruptible Power Supply

    Click the Hibernate tab. Click the Enable hibernation check box, then click Apply. Hibernate mode is now an option you can select in the Power Schemes and Advanced tabs and in the Shut Down Windows dialog box. Click OK.
  • Page 126 CHAPTER 9: Customizing Your Computer Click the UPS tab. Click Select. The UPS Selection dialog box opens. Click the manufacturer and model of the UPS device, then click the serial port where the UPS device is attached. Click Finish, then click OK.

  • Page 127: Chapter 10: Maintaining Your Computer

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

  • Page 128: Setting Up A Maintenance Schedule

    Cleaning your computer Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put together a computer cleaning kit: • A soft, lint-free cloth •...
  • Page 129 To clean a computer LCD screen or flat panel display, use a soft cloth and water to clean the LCD screen. Squirt a little water on the cloth (never directly on the screen), and wipe the screen with the cloth.

  • Page 130: Updating Windows

    Support. Type Windows Update in the Search Help box, then press E NTER Windows Update helps you keep your computer up-to-date. Use Windows Update to choose updates for your computer’s operating system, software, and hardware. New content is added to the site regularly, so you can always get the most recent updates and fixes to protect your computer and keep it running smoothly.

  • Page 131: Managing Hard Drive Space

    Windows provides several utilities you can use to manage your hard drive. Checking hard drive space To check hard drive space: Click Start, then click My Computer. The My Computer window opens. Right-click the drive that you want to check for available file space, then click Properties. Drive space information appears.

  • Page 132: Checking The Hard Drive For Errors

    If you use your computer several hours every day, you probably want to run Error-checking once a week. If you use your computer less frequently, once a month may be adequate. Also use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive problems.

  • Page 133: Defragmenting The Hard Drive

    This is called fragmentation, and it is normal. In order for your computer to use a file, Windows must search for the pieces of the file and put them back together. This process slows the hard drive performance.

  • Page 134: Backing Up Files

    Accessories Store at accessories.gateway.com. Scheduling maintenance tasks Important Your computer must be on during scheduled tasks. If your computer is off, scheduled tasks will not run. Help For more information about using the Scheduled Task Wizard, click Start, then click Help and Support.

  • Page 135: Moving From Your Old Computer

    You can move your data files and personal settings, such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings, from your old computer to your new one by using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. The wizard also moves specific files or entire folders, such as My Documents, My Pictures, and Favorites.

  • Page 136: Transferring Internet Settings

    • If your current Internet service provider (ISP) software came preinstalled on your new computer, run that setup program. If it asks to set up a new account or an existing one, choose to set up an existing account. •...

  • Page 137: Installing Your Old Printer Or Scanner

    Newer devices, however, usually require your original software installation discs or diskettes. If you have trouble after you install the software for your old devices, you can use System Restore to restore your computer’s previous settings. Installing a USB printer or scanner USB devices may have special installation instructions.

  • Page 138: Installing Your Old Programs

    CHAPTER 10: Maintaining Your Computer Installing your old programs You probably use some programs that did not come installed on your new computer, such as personal finance software, graphics programs, or games. If your new computer comes with a newer version of a program, it is usually better to use the newer version than to reinstall the old one.

  • Page 139: Chapter 11 Troubleshooting

    CHAPTER Troubleshooting • Safety guidelines • First steps • Troubleshooting • Telephone support...

  • Page 140: Safety Guidelines

    First steps If you have problems with your computer, try these things first: • Make sure that the AC power adapter is connected to your computer and an AC outlet and that the AC outlet is supplying power. • If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure that it is turned on.

  • Page 141: Battery

    “Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 132. • Restart your computer, then enter the BIOS Setup utility by pressing and holding F1 while your computer restarts. Make sure that the IDE controllers are enabled. • Make sure that the drive is configured correctly by following the instructions in the drive documentation.

  • Page 142: Computer

    CHAPTER 11: Troubleshooting Computer The computer will not start • Make sure that the power cord is connected to an AC power source and your computer is turned on. Diskette drive The diskette drive is not recognized • Shut down and restart your computer.

  • Page 143: Ethernet

    Ethernet You cannot see the other computers on your network • Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the Ethernet jack on your computer. Make sure that the other end is plugged into a router. • Make sure that all computers are plugged into a powered electrical outlet and turned on.

  • Page 144: Hard Drive

    • Press C to restart your computer. • If your computer has been subjected to static electricity or physical shock, you may need to reinstall the operating system. You see a “Non-system disk” or “disk error” error message • Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press E...

  • Page 145: Keyboard

    Liquid spilled in the keyboard • If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard dry before using it again.
  • Page 146 • VGA—If your TV includes a VGA port, connect the VGA cable from the Media Center computer’s VGA (monitor) port to the TV’s VGA In port for the best quality. Many TVs do not have a VGA port. •...

  • Page 147: Memory

    Yes, you can. A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be replayed on another Media Center computer or on a non-Media Center computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). The non-Media Center computer must also have Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or later, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update.

  • Page 148: Modem (Cable Or Dsl)

    See your hardware reference or setup poster to make sure that the connections have been made correctly. • Make sure that your computer is connected to the telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone. •...
  • Page 149 If your computer has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K. If your computer has a v.92 modem, the speed at which you can upload data is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads.

  • Page 150: Monitor

    Check the cable for bent or damaged pins. • Reinstall the device driver. • Connect a monitor that you know works to your computer. The color is not uniform • Make sure that the monitor warms up for at least 30 minutes before making a final judgment about color uniformity.

  • Page 151: Mouse

    Adjust the brightness and contrast controls. • Use the monitor degauss feature (see your monitor documentation) or turn off your computer and monitor, leave them off for at least a half hour, then restart your computer. • Change the display settings. For more information, see “Adjusting the screen and desktop...

  • Page 152: Power

    Make sure that your power cord is connected correctly to your computer. • If your computer is plugged into a surge protector, make sure that the surge protector is connected securely to an electrical outlet, turned on, and working correctly. To test the outlet, plug a working device, such as a lamp, into the outlet and turn it on.

  • Page 153: Sound

    If you have a technical problem with your computer, follow these recommendations before contacting Gateway Customer Care: • Make sure that your computer is connected correctly to a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use a surge protector, make sure that it is turned on. •...

  • Page 154: Telephone Numbers

    • Make sure that your computer is nearby at the time of your call. The technician may have you follow troubleshooting steps. Telephone numbers Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, Customer Care, and information services.

  • Page 155: Tutoring

    Tutoring Answers by Gateway is a telephone service that provides answers to all of your “How do I...” questions on Gateway computers. For more information, go to www.gateway.com/answers. Training Gateway provides the following computer-based training: Resource Service description For more information...
  • Page 156 CHAPTER 11: Troubleshooting...

  • Page 157: Appendix A: Safety, Regulatory, And Legal Information

    APPENDIX Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information • Important safety information • Regulatory compliance statements • Environmental information • Notices...

  • Page 158: Important Safety Information

    The product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the rating label. ■ If your computer has a voltage selector switch, make sure that the switch is in the proper position for your area. The voltage selector switch is set at the factory to the correct voltage.

  • Page 159: Regulatory Compliance Statements

    USA modems) Your modem complies with Part 68 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR 47) rules. On the computer or modem card is a label that contains the FCC registration number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this device. If requested, this information must be provided to the telephone company.

  • Page 160: Laser Safety Statement

    External television antenna grounding If an outside antenna or cable system is to be connected to your Gateway PC, make sure that the antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection against voltage surges and static charges.

  • Page 161: Lightning Protection

    Lightning protection For added protection of any Gateway product during a lightning storm or when it is left unattended or unused for long periods of time, unplug the product from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system.

  • Page 162: Environmental Information

    When your electrical or electronic equipment is no longer useful to you, “take it back” to your local or regional waste collection administration for recycling. ■ In some cases, your “end of life” product may be “traded in” for credit towards the purchase of new Gateway equipment. Call Gateway to see if this program is available in your area. ■...

  • Page 163: Macrovision Statement

    Due to continuing system improvements, Gateway is not responsible for inaccurate information which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates, consult the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special, exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this manual, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
  • Page 164 APPENDIX A: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information...

  • Page 165: Index

    Customer Service window Accounting Sales color cable modem Warranty changing depth Caps Lock indicator changing number of customizing capturing video to computer changing scheme cutting cards CompactFlash files and folders inserting memory card text and graphics computers installing memory card naming...
  • Page 166 Dynamic Host Configuration using screen saver transferring Protocol documentation troubleshooting Gateway Web site types help un-sharing editing Help and Support viewing list music track information online help Files and Settings Transfer video documents...
  • Page 167 Internet service provider (ISP) connecting to cleaning keyboard disconnecting from Gateway cleaning mouse...
  • Page 168 Program Guide selecting screen objects See Windows Media Center troubleshooting Program Guide moving programs online help files closing opening files from old computer closing unresponsive documents folders opening files Internet settings from old reinstalling files across network computer projector folders...
  • Page 169 Learn With Gateway Start menu screen objects transferring getting information starting files from Internet moving computer files from old computer selecting programs Internet settings from old Scroll Lock indicator starting programs computer scroll wheel subnet mask settings from old computer...
  • Page 170 Internet TV transferring to computer files Windows Movie Maker Video Capture Wizard general guidelines capturing video to computer hard drive viewing Internet connection shared drives editing video keyboard shared folders saving video LCD panel...
  • Page 172 MAN GW GENERIC DT USR GDE R2 2/07...

Table of Contents

Save PDF