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Gateway 8510946 User Manual

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  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Gateway contact information ........
  • Page 3 Networks ............73 www.gateway.com...
  • Page 4 ..............99 www.gateway.com...
  • Page 5 www.gateway.com...

  • Page 6: Getting Help

    Chapter 1 Getting Help • Using the Gateway Web site • Using Help and Support • Using Your Computer guide • Using online help • Contacting Gateway...
  • Page 7 Chapter 1: Getting Help Thank you for purchasing our computer! You have made an excellent decision choosing Gateway. We are sure that you will be pleased with the outstanding quality, reliability, and performance of your new computer. Each and every Gateway computer uses the latest technology and passes through the most stringent quality control tests to ensure that you are provided with the best product possible.

  • Page 8: 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: Click , then click .

  • Page 9: Searching For A Topic

    The Using Your Computer guide includes information on using Windows, using the Internet, sending a fax, and changing power-saving settings as well as other topics. To access the Using Your Computer guide: Click , then click ■ Start All Programs Gateway Documentation www.gateway.com...

  • Page 10: Online Help

    You can search for information by viewing the help contents, checking the index, searching for a topic or keyword, or browsing through the online help. Gateway contact information For Technical Support, see the Gateway Business Service Plans guide that came with your system. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 11 Chapter 1: Getting Help www.gateway.com...

  • Page 12: Checking Out Your Gateway Computer

    Chapter 2 Checking Out Your Gateway Computer • Identifying features • Locating your computer model and serial number • Locating the Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity • Locating the specifications for your computer • Purchasing accessories...

  • Page 13: Front

    Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Gateway Computer Front Your computer includes the following components. DVD/CD drive Diskette drive (optional) Power button/ power indicator USB ports Headphone jack Microphone jack IEEE port (optional) Component Icon Description Diskette drive Use this drive to read from or write to standard 3.5-inch diskettes. For...
  • Page 14 “Identifying drive types” on page Headphone jack Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external amplifier, or headphones into this jack. This jack is color-coded green. Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is color-coded red or pink. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 15: Back

    Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Gateway Computer Back Your computer includes the following components: Cover release lever Voltage switch Audio in/side speaker jack Headphone/front speaker jack Power connector Microphone jack Rear speaker jack (optional) Center/subwoofer jack (optional) Ethernet (network) jack...
  • Page 16 ) device card (optional) (such as a digital camcorder) into these 4-pin IEEE 1394 ports. For more information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device” on page Telephone jack Plug a telephone cable into this jack. (optional) www.gateway.com...
  • Page 17 Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Gateway Computer Component Icon Description Audio input (Line If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, this jack is in) jack (blue) user configurable for one of the following: -OR- Stereo in: plug an external audio input source (such as a ■...
  • Page 18 Plug a Personal System/2 (PS/2) keyboard into this port. PS/2 keyboard port Plug a PS/2 mouse into this port. Video port (add-in Plug a monitor into this port. optioinal) Modem jack Plug a modem cable into this jack. (optional) www.gateway.com...

  • Page 19: Locating Your Serial Number

    The labels shown in this section are for informational purposes only. Important Label information varies by model, features ordered, and location. The label on the side of your computer case includes your computer serial number. Gateway Technical Support will need this information if you call for assistance. Online support: Tech Support Phone: (U.S.)

  • Page 20: Finding Your Specifications

    Finding your specifications Finding your specifications For more information about your computer, such as memory size, memory type, and hard drive size, visit Gateway’s Support page at support.gateway.com. The Support page also has links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 21: Accessories

    Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Gateway Computer Accessories To order accessories, visit the Accessory Store at accessories.gateway.com. Memory Large programs, such as multimedia games or graphics programs, use a lot of memory. If your programs are running more slowly than you think they should, try adding more memory.

  • Page 22: Getting Started

    Chapter 3 Getting Started • Using your computer safely • Protecting your computer from power source problems • Turning your computer on and off • Adjusting the volume • Configuring audio jacks • Connecting the modem and network • Installing peripheral devices...

  • Page 23: 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. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 24: Setting Up Your Computer And Computer Accessories

    Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition. ■ Take breaks to change your position, stretch your muscles, and relieve your eyes. ■ Find ways to break up the work day, and schedule a variety of tasks. ■ www.gateway.com...

  • Page 25: Protecting From Power Source Problems

    United States. In other areas of the world, such as Europe, the utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your computer is operating in an environment such as this, the voltage switch should be moved to 230. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 26 Working safely To set the voltage selection switch: Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the voltage selection switch to ■ the correct voltage position. Voltage selection switch www.gateway.com...

  • Page 27: Starting Your Computer

    For more information about changing the power button mode, see Tips & Tricks “Changing Power-Saving Settings” in Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 28: Turning Off Your Computer

    If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the power button Important for about five seconds, then release it. As a part of the regular startup process, a program to check the disk status runs automatically. When the checks are finished, Windows starts. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 29: Using The Keyboard

    (Search utility), (Run utility), and (Explorer utility). Application key Access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows. Directional keys Move the cursor up, down, right, or left. Numeric keypad Type numbers when the numeric keypad ( ) is turned on. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 30: Adjusting The Volume

    “Adjusting the Volume” in Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation. Configuring the audio jacks If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks (which use a round mini-jack connector).

  • Page 31: Connecting The Modem

    To connect to an Ethernet network: Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack on the back of your computer. Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable modem, DSL modem, or Ethernet jack. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 32: Installing A Printer, Scanner, Or Other Peripheral Device

    For more information about port locations, “Checking Out Your Gateway Computer” on page IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and hot-swapping, which means that your computer will usually recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the appropriate port.
  • Page 33 Chapter 3: Getting Started www.gateway.com...

  • Page 34: Using Drives

    Chapter 4 Using Drives • Using the diskette drive • Using CD or DVD drives...

  • Page 35: Using The Diskette Drive

    , then click . Double-click the Start My Computer drive letter (for example, the A: drive), then double-click the file name. To remove the diskette, make sure that the drive activity light is off, then press the diskette eject button. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 36: 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 37: Inserting A Cd Or Dvd

    If the disc has two playable sides, place the disc so the name of the side you want to play is up or to the right. Press the eject button to close the tray. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 38: Playing A Cd

    For more information about playing DVDs, see “Playing DVDs” in Tips & Tricks Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation. Creating CDs and DVDs...
  • Page 39 Chapter 4: Using Drives www.gateway.com...

  • Page 40: Maintaining Your Computer

    Chapter 5 Maintaining Your Computer • Caring for your computer • Updating Windows • Protecting your computer from viruses • Cleaning your computer • Restoring your system • Opening the computer case • Adding memory and replacing the battery...

  • Page 41: Caring For Your Computer

    Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt can clog the internal ■ mechanisms. Do not block the ventilation fan. ■ When storing your computer for an extended period of time, unplug AC power. ■ www.gateway.com...

  • Page 42: Updating Windows

    All Programs Windows Update Click Scan for Available Updates For more information about Windows Update, click Start, then click Help and Support Help and Support. Type the keyword Windows Update in the HelpSpot Search box , then click the arrow. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 43: Protecting Your Computer From Viruses

    Tips & Tricks “Modifying Security Settings” in Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation. For more information about protecting your computer against viruses, Help and Support click Start, then click Help and Support.
  • Page 44 Protecting your computer from viruses To scan for viruses: Click , then click Start All Programs Norton Internet Security Norton Internet Security Norton Internet Security opens. Click Norton AntiVirus www.gateway.com...
  • Page 45 Norton Internet Security after the free subscription period, you must extend your subscription. Make sure that you are connected to the Internet. Click , then click Start All Programs Norton Internet Security Norton Internet Security Norton Internet Security opens. Click . The LiveUpdate wizard opens. LiveUpdate www.gateway.com...
  • Page 46 Protecting your computer from viruses Follow the on-screen instructions to update your Norton Internet Security program with the latest virus protection files. When the program has finished, click Finish www.gateway.com...

  • Page 47: Cleaning Your Computer

    If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off your computer and turn the keyboard upside down. Let the liquid drain, then let the keyboard dry before trying to use it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 48: Cleaning The Monitor

    To clean your optical mouse: Wipe the bottom of the mouse with a damp lint-free cloth ■ To clean your trackball mouse: Turn the mouse upside down. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 49 Remove any dust, lint, or dirt from the mouse ball with a soft cloth. Clean the mouse rollers with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Mouse rollers Replace the mouse ball and lock the retaining ring into place. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 50: Cleaning Cds Or Dvds

    Cleaning your computer Cleaning CDs or DVDs Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle, using a product made especially for the purpose. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 51: Restoring Your System

    If Windows does not start or if the two previous procedures do not correct the problem, you may need to restore your computer to the original configuration. To restore your computer to the original configuration: Turn on your computer, then press F11. Follow the on-screen instructions. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 52: Preventing Static Electricity Discharge

    Always hold expansion cards by their edges or their metal mounting brackets. ■ Avoid touching the edge connectors and components on the cards. Never slide expansion cards or components over any surface. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 53: Opening The Case

    Move the cover release lever to the side to release the cover. When you release the lever, the top of the side panel may fall away Caution from the computer. Hold the side panel in place and lower it slowly, then remove it. Cover release lever www.gateway.com...
  • Page 54 Opening the case Swing the side panel down from the top of the computer, then lift the panel away from the computer. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 55: Removing The Front Bezel

    Be careful not to pull or damage the hard drive power and data cables Caution when you remove the metal reinforcing beam/hard drive assembly. Set the assembly aside as far as the cables will permit. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 56 Swing the bottom of the bezel out until the top of the bezel can be disengaged from the top of the computer, then remove the bezel. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 57: Closing The Case

    Engage the tab on the top of the bezel with the slot in the top of the computer. Swing the bottom of the bezel in to engage the tabs on the bezel with the slots on the front of the chassis. Press the bottom of the bezel firmly until it snaps into place. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 58: Replacing The Side Panel

    Engage the panel tabs into the bottom of the case, then swing the side panel up toward the top of the computer until it clicks to secure it into place. Reconnect the cables and power cord. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 59: Installing Memory

    Find the memory module banks on your system board. If you are removing a DIMM from the memory module bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module and remove it. - OR - www.gateway.com...
  • Page 60 Click , then click (if in Category view). Start Control Panel Performance and Maintenance Click/Double-click . The amount of memory in your computer is shown at the System bottom of the System Properties dialog box in the General tab. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 61: Replacing The System Battery

    Remove the metal reinforcing beam/hard drive assembly and set it aside (as far as the hard drive cables will allow). Locate the old battery on the system board and note its orientation. You will need to install the new battery the same way. Battery release tab www.gateway.com...
  • Page 62 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord. Turn on your computer. Open the BIOS Setup utility. In the BIOS Setup utility, restore any settings that you wrote down in Step Save all your settings and exit the BIOS Setup utility. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 63 Chapter 5: Maintaining Your Computer www.gateway.com...

  • Page 64: Troubleshooting

    Chapter 6 Troubleshooting • Troubleshooting typical hardware and software problems...

  • Page 65: Safety Guidelines

    If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. The ■ message may help Gateway Customer Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem. If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the installation procedures you ■...

  • Page 66: Troubleshooting

    Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these ■ CDs on your computer. Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For more information, see ■ “Adjusting the volume” on page www.gateway.com...

  • Page 67: Computer

    If the DVD movie does not play, the disc’s regional code and your DVD drive’s regional code may not match. 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. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 68: Diskette Drive

    To access this guide, click , then click Start All Programs Gateway Documentation If errors are detected and corrected, try using the diskette again. You see a “Access Denied” or “Write protect” error message Move the write-protection tab in the upper-right corner of the diskette down ■...

  • Page 69: Dvd Drives

    If the Recycle Bin was emptied before you try to restore a file, the file cannot be restored. For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start, then Help and Support click Help and Support. Type the keyword System Restore in the Search box , then click the arrow. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 70: Hard Drive

    “Using Disk Cleanup” in Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start , then click Programs Gateway Documentation Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the icon, then clicking ■ Recycle Bin...

  • Page 71: Internet

    The condition of the Internet computers to which you connect and the number ■ of users accessing those computers The complexity of graphics and multimedia on Web pages ■ Having multiple Web browsers open, performing multiple downloads, and having ■ multiple programs open on your computer www.gateway.com...

  • Page 72: Keyboard

    If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it. Memory You see a “Memory error” message Use a third-party diagnostic program to help determine if a memory module is ■ failing. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 73: Modem (Dial-Up)

    Click the location from which you are dialing, then click Edit Make sure that all settings are correct. For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then click Help and Support Help and Support. Type the keyword dialing in the Search box then click the arrow. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 74 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads. Your fax communications program only sends and receives faxes at 14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem Current fax technology only supports a maximum send and receive rate of 14,400 bps. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 75 Handshaking is a digital “getting acquainted” conversation between the two modems that establishes connection speeds and communication protocols. You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems first connect. If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can turn down the modem volume. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 76: Monitor

    For more information, see “Adjusting the color depth” in Using Your Tips & Tricks Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation. For more information about changing the screen resolution, click Help and Support Start, then click Help and Support.

  • Page 77: Mouse

    For more information, see “Adjusting the screen and desktop settings” Tips & Tricks in Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation. Move the monitor away from sources of electrical interference, such as televisions, ■...

  • Page 78: Networks

    To test the outlet, plug a working device, such as a lamp, into the outlet and turn it on. Make sure that the power cord is free from cuts or damage. Replace any damaged ■ cables. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 79: Printer

    To make sure that the printer is not set to work offline: Click , then click . The Control Panel window opens. If your Start Control Panel Control Panel is in Category View, click Printers and Other Hardware Click/Double-click the icon. The Printers and Faxes window opens. Printers and Faxes www.gateway.com...

  • Page 80: Sound

    If you are using external speakers, see the speaker setup poster to check your speaker ■ connections. Make sure that the universal jacks are configured correctly. For more information, ■ “Configuring the audio jacks” on page www.gateway.com...
  • Page 81 Chapter 6: Troubleshooting www.gateway.com...

  • Page 82: Networking Your Computer

    Chapter 7 Networking Your Computer • Introducing networking • Creating an Ethernet network • Testing your network • Troubleshooting your Ethernet network...

  • Page 83: Introduction To Networking

    Using a router 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. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 84 Equipment you need for a router-based Ethernet network For an Ethernet network you need: Two or more computers with Ethernet jacks ■ One router ■ One broadband Internet connection (optional) ■ Ethernet cables connecting all of the network equipment ■ www.gateway.com...
  • Page 85 . The Device System Hardware Device Manager Manager window opens. Click the plus (+) in front of . The Ethernet device installed in your Network adapters computer is listed. If one is not listed, you must install one. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 86: Creating An Ethernet Network

    Ethernet cards and drivers on the computers that do not have Ethernet already installed. To order wired or wireless Ethernet PCI or PC cards, visit the Accessories Store at accessories.gateway.com. Use the documentation that comes with your Ethernet cards for instructions on installing the card and any required drivers.

  • Page 87: Configuring The Tcp/Ip Protocol

    . The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Start Control Panel Panel is in Category View, click . The Network and Network and Internet Connections Internet Connections window opens. Click/Double-click . The Network Connections window opens. Network Connections www.gateway.com...
  • Page 88 Click to select the check box in the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) This connection uses the list. If you do not see TCP/IP, drag the scroll bar to see more choices. following items Click The Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box opens. Properties. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 89: Setting Up An Ethernet Network

    This type of cable is equipped with RJ-45 connectors (like a large telephone jack connector, but with eight pins) on each end. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 90 The router can assign IP addresses to the computers on the network and can provide firewall protection for your network as well. In addition to a router, you need a straight-through cable for each computer you want to connect to the network. Cable/DSL modem Router WAN port www.gateway.com...

  • Page 91: Configuring Your Router

    E http://192.168.1.1 NTER When prompted for a username and password, leave the username box empty and type in the password box, then click . The Setup page opens. admin Enter the following values in the appropriate fields: www.gateway.com...
  • Page 92 DHCP Click the checkbox, then click Enable Apply Press the reset button on your cable or DSL modem, then restart the computer. Your network should be running. Go to “Testing your network” on page www.gateway.com...

  • Page 93: Testing Your Network

    Temporarily turn off any firewall software on your desktop computer ■ Turn off all of the devices, then power them back on ■ Refer to your router’s or access point’s troubleshooting information ■ Contact your Internet service provider ■ www.gateway.com...

  • Page 94: Troubleshooting Your Ethernet Network

    Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or 10/100/1000 Mbps). A mixture of Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet components will result in your network running at the slowest component speed. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 95 Chapter 7: Networking Your Computer www.gateway.com...

  • Page 96: A Safety, Regulatory, And Legal Information

    Appendix A Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information • Safety information • Regulatory statements • Notices...

  • Page 97: Important Safety Information

    Appendix A: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information Important safety information Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.
  • Page 98 To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger Warning telecommunications line cord. www.gateway.com...

  • Page 99: Regulatory Compliance Statements

    (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Gateway could Caution void the FCC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product.
  • Page 100 Users should make sure, for their own protection, that the electrical ground connections of the power utility, telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas. www.gateway.com...
  • Page 101 Equivalence Numbers of all the devices does not exceed 5. Laser safety statement All Gateway systems equipped with CD and DVD drives comply with the appropriate safety standards, including IEC 825. The laser devices in these components are classified as “Class 1 Laser Products” under a US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation Performance Standard.
  • Page 102 ■ 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 103 In the interest of continued product development, Gateway reserves the right to make improvements in this manual and the products it describes at any time, without notices or obligation.

  • Page 104: Index

    TCP/IP protocol connecting connecting modem PS/2 keyboard cable modem PS/2 mouse connecting to Ethernet network Caps Lock indicator to Internet cards to network troubleshooting add-in card connections case audio in closing center speaker opening www.gateway.com...
  • Page 105 Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol digital camera locating serial port locating USB port electrostatic discharge (ESD) DIMM entering See memory IP address directional keys subnet mask diskette ergonomics troubleshooting eSupport diskette drive Ethernet identifying connecting troubleshooting equipment needed using example www.gateway.com...
  • Page 106 Internet function keys troubleshooting IP address entering Gateway eSupport serial number Gateway contact information Gigabit Ethernet jacks See connections hard drive troubleshooting keyboard headphone jack buttons help cleaning online features using...
  • Page 107 Pad Lock indicator parallel port jack password protecting from power surge peripheral devices troubleshooting playing monitor audio CD cleaning port ports troubleshooting See connections mouse power cleaning button PS/2 port connector troubleshooting Hibernate mode USB port source problems multimedia www.gateway.com...
  • Page 108 TCP/IP protocol avoiding repetitive strain configuring caring for computer Technical Support general precautions technical support guidelines for troubleshooting eSupport posture telephone reducing eye strain jack setting up computer testing network www.gateway.com...
  • Page 109 Web site connection speed Zip drive turning off computer turning on computer TV out (S-Video out) jack uninterruptible power supply (UPS) updating device drivers Norton Internet Security Windows USB port video www.gateway.com...

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