USERGUIDE
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Contents
Chapter 1: Getting Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Thank you for purchasing our computer! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Using the Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Using Help and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Searching for a topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Using online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2: Using Windows Vista. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Using the Windows desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Using the Start menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Adding icons to the desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Identifying window items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Working with files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Viewing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Creating folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Deleting files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Searching for files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Using the Windows Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Browsing for files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Working with documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Creating a new document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Saving a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Opening a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Printing a document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Chapter 3: Using the Internet and Faxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Learning about the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Setting up an Internet account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Using the World Wide Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Connecting to a Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Downloading files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Using e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Sending e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Checking your e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Using faxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Using Windows Fax and Scan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Sending a Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Receiving and viewing a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Chapter 4: Using Drives and Media Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
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Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Using the diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Using an optical drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Inserting an optical disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Playing a CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Playing a DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Playing a Blu-ray Disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Playing an HD-DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Recording to optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Creating audio and video files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Copying optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Playing music and movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Playing audio and video files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Playing optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Creating audio files and music libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Creating music files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Building a music library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Editing track information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Creating music CDs and video DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Creating a music CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Creating a video DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Creating and copying data discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Creating a data disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Using Windows Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Introduction to networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Wired Ethernet networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, or Gigabit Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Using a router . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Setting up wired Ethernet network hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Wireless Ethernet networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Wireless Ethernet standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Using an access point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Setting up wireless Ethernet network hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Setting up your network connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Naming the computers and the workgroup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Configuring the TCP/IP protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Connecting to a wireless Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Wireless security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Testing your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Adding a printer to your network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
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Sharing resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Sharing drives and printers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Using the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Printing files across the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Hardware security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Kensington lock slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Data security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Windows user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Using McAfee SecurityCenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Security updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Windows Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Chapter 7: Customizing Windows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Changing screen settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Changing color depth and screen resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Changing the appearance of windows and backgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Selecting a screen saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Changing gadgets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Setting up multiple monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Changing system sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Changing mouse settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Adding and modifying user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Changing power-saving settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Changing the power scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Changing accessibility settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Using the Ease of Access Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Using voice recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
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Contents
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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.
Please read this manual carefully to familiarize yourself with our range of services and support.
We have highlighted some basic care and safety information to help you keep your computer
in good operating condition.
Gateway stands behind our value proposition to our customers—to provide best-of-class service
and support in addition to high-quality, brand-name components at affordable prices. If you ever
have a problem, our knowledgeable, dedicated customer service department will provide you
with fast, considerate service.
We sincerely hope that you will receive the utmost satisfaction and enjoyment from your new
Gateway computer for years to come.
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
computer. Visit the Gateway Support Web site at support.gateway.com.
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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:
•
Click Start, then click Help and Support. Help and Support opens.
You can find help information by clicking a general topic under Find an answer, selecting an
option under Ask someone, or picking a category from Information from Microsoft. You can
also search for a topic.
Searching for a topic
To search for a topic in Help and Support, type a word or phrase (keyword) in the Search Help
box located at the top of any Help and Support screen, then press ENTER.
For each search, you receive a list of suggested topics. To find the answer, click the result that
most closely matches your question. Additional results may be available if the first list does not
address your question.
Getting help for Windows Media Center
If your computer has Windows Vista Media Center Edition installed, you can access help for
information on how to use it.
To access Media Center help:
1
2
Click Start, then click Help and Support. Help and Support opens.
In the Help and Support window, type Win dows Media Cen ter in the Search Help
box, then press ENTER. The Media Center Help window opens.
-OR-
If you are connected to the Internet, click Windows Online Help, then type Win d ows
Media Cen ter in the Search Help For box.
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CHAPTER 1: Getting Help
Using online help
Many programs provide information so you can research a topic or learn how to perform a task
while you are using the program. You can access most online help information by selecting a
topic from a Help menu or by clicking the Help button on the menu bar and selecting Online
Support from the list.
Available information depends on the program. Many provide FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions),
a search feature, articles about their software, tutorials, and forums where problems and issues
are discussed.
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 Vista from the
installation DVD, you will need to enter these numbers to activate it.
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CHAPTER 2: Using Windows Vista
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.
Help
For more information about the Windows desktop, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type Win d ow s d esktop in the Search Help box, then press Enter.
Your desktop may be different from this example, depending on how your computer is set up.
The desktop contains the taskbar, the Start button, and the Recycle Bin icon.
Desktop elements
Description
The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the computer display containing
the Start button on the left and a clock on the right. Other buttons on the
taskbar represent programs that are running.
Click a program’s button on the taskbar to open the program’s window.
and computer tools and utilities.
Click the Start button, then open a file or
program by clicking an item on the menu that
opens.
The Recycle Bin is where files, folders, and
programs that you discarded are stored. You
must empty the Recycle Bin to permanently
delete them from your computer. For
instructions on how to use the Recycle Bin,
see “Deleting files and folders” on page 11.
The Windows Security Center icon may
appear on the taskbar near the clock. The icon
changes appearance to notify you when the
security settings on your computer are set
below the recommended value or when
updates are available. Double-click this icon to
open the Windows Security Center. For more
information, see “Modifying security settings”
on page 67.
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Using the Start menu
Help
For more information about the Windows Start menu, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type Win d ow s Start m en u in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for files and folders,
and more using the Start menu.
To use the Start menu:
Shortcut
Start Ö All Programs Ö
1
Click
(Start) on the lower left of the Windows desktop. The Start menu opens, showing
you the first level of menu items.
2
Click All Programs to see all programs, files, and folders in the Start menu. If you click
an item with a folder icon, the programs, files, and subfolders appear.
3
Click a file or program to open it.
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CHAPTER 2: Using Windows Vista
Adding icons to the desktop
Help
For more information about the desktop icons, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type d esktop icon s in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
You may want to add an icon (shortcut) to the desktop for a program that you use frequently.
To add icons to the desktop:
Shortcut
Start Ö All Programs Ö right-click programÖ Send To Ö Desktop (create shortcut)
1
2
3
Click
(Start), then click All Programs.
Right-click (press the right mouse button) the program that you want to add to the desktop.
Click Send To, then click Desktop (create shortcut). A shortcut icon for that program
appears on the desktop.
Identifying window items
Help
For more information about windows, click Start, then click Help and Support.
Type w in d ow in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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 Computer window.
Search box
Close
Maximize
Title bar
Menu bar
Minimize
Every program window looks a little different because each has its own menus, icons, and
controls. Most windows include these items:
Window item
Description
The title bar is the horizontal bar at the top of a window that shows
the window title.
The Search box lets you search for
a word or phrase in the current
window.
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Window item
Description
Clicking the minimize button
reduces the active window to a
button on the taskbar. Clicking the
program button in the taskbar
opens the window again.
Clicking the maximize button
expands the active window to fit
theentirecomputer display. Clicking
the maximize button again restores
the window to its former size.
Clicking the close button closes the
active window or program.
Clicking an item on the menu bar starts an action such as Print or
Save.
Working with files and folders
You can organize your files and programs to suit your preferences much like you would store
information in a file cabinet. You can store these files in folders and copy, move, and delete the
information just as you would reorganize and throw away information in a file cabinet.
Viewing drives
Help
For more information about files and folders, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type files an d fold ers in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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. You may
also have more drives such as a CD or DVD drive.
To view the drives, folders, and files on your computer:
1
Click
(Start), then click Computer.
Hard drives
Diskette drive
Disc drive
2
Double-click the drive icon.
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CHAPTER 2: Using Windows Vista
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
Files
To create a folder:
Shortcut
File ÖNew ÖFolder Ötype name
1
2
Click
(Start), then click Computer on the Start menu.
Double-click the drive where you want to put the new folder. Typically, Local Disk (C:) is
your hard drive.
3
4
5
If you want to create a new folder inside an existing folder, double-click the existing folder.
Click Organize, then click New Folder. The new folder is created.
Type a name for the folder, then press ENTER. The new folder name appears by the folder
icon.
For information about renaming folders, see “Shortcuts” on page 16.
Copying and moving files and folders
Important
The clipboard stores whatever you cut or copy until you cut or copy again. Then
the clipboard contains the new information only. Therefore, you can paste copies of a file
or folder into more than one place, but as soon as you copy or cut a different file or folder,
the original file or folder is deleted from the clipboard.
The skills you need to copy and move files are called copying, cutting, and pasting.
When you copy and paste a file or folder, you place a copy of the file or folder on the Windows
clipboard, which temporarily stores it. Then, when you decide what folder you want the copy
to go in (the destination folder), you paste it there.
When you cut and paste a file or folder, you remove the file or folder from its original location
and place the file or folder on the Windows clipboard. When you decide where you want the
file or folder to go, you paste it there.
To copy a file or folder to another folder:
1
Locate the file or folder you want to copy. For more information, see “Viewing drives” on
page 9 and “Searching for files” on page 12.
2
Right-click (press the right mouse button) the file or folder that you want to copy. A pop-up
menu opens on the desktop.
3
4
5
Click Copy on the pop-up menu.
Open the destination folder.
With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.
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6
Click Paste. A copy of the file or folder appears in the new location.
Help
For more information about copying files and folders or moving files or folders, click
Start, then click Help and Support. Type copyin g files an d folders or m ovin g files
an d fold ers in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
To move a file or folder to another folder:
1
Locate the file or folder you want to move. For more information, see “Viewing drives” on
page 9 and “Searching for files” on page 12.
2
Right-click (press the right mouse button) the file or folder that you want to move. A pop-up
menu opens on the desktop.
3
4
5
6
Click Cut on the pop-up menu.
With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click.
Click Paste. The file or folder you moved appears in its new location and is removed from
its old location.
Deleting files and folders
in a trash can. Eventually the trash can is emptied.
In Windows, you throw away files and folders by first moving them to the Windows trash can,
called the Recycle Bin, where they remain until you decide to empty the bin.
You can recover any file in the Recycle Bin as long as the bin has not been emptied.
To delete files or folders:
1
In the Computer or Windows Explorer window, click the files or folders that you want to
delete. For instructions on how to select multiple files and folders, see “Shortcuts” on
page 16.
If you cannot find the file you want to delete, see “Searching for files” on page 12.
2
Click Organize, then click Delete. Windows moves the files and folders to the Recycle Bin.
To recover files or folders from the Recycle Bin:
1
2
3
Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. The Recycle Bin window opens and lists the files and
folders you have thrown away since you last emptied it.
Click the files or folders that you want to restore. For instructions on how to select multiple
files and folders, see “Shortcuts” on page 16.
Click Restore. Windows returns the deleted files or folders to their original locations.
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CHAPTER 2: Using Windows Vista
To empty the Recycle Bin:
Caution
Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently erases any files or folders in the bin. These
files cannot be restored.
1
2
Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window opens.
Click Empty the Recycle Bin. Windows asks you if you are sure that you want to empty
the bin.
3
Click Yes. Windows permanently deletes all files in the Recycle Bin.
Help
For more information about emptying the Recycle Bin, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type em p tyin g th e Recycle Bin in the Search Help box, then
press ENTER.
Searching for files
If you are looking for a particular file or folder or a set of files or folders that have characteristics
in common, but you do not remember where they are stored on your hard drive, you can use
the Search utility. to search by:
Files and folders found using this utility can be opened, copied, cut, renamed, or deleted directly
from the list in the results window.
Using the Windows Search
To find files and folders using the Search:
1
2
Click
(Start), then click Search. The Search Results window opens.
If you want to search on your computer by file or folder name, type in all or part of the
file or folder name in the Search box in the top right of the window.
•
•
If you type all of the name, Search will list all files and folders of that name.
If you type part of the name, Search will list all of the file and folder names containing the letters
you typed.
3
Open a file, folder, or program by double-clicking the name in the list.
Help
For more information about searching for files and folders, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type search in g in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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Using advanced search options
Search can find files meeting more criteria than file name. You can narrow your search by
selecting the search options that you want. You can search by the:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Name or part of a name
Creation date
Modification date
File type
Tag
Author
Text contained in the file
Time period in which it was created or modified
You can also combine search criteria to refine searches.
Files and folders found using this utility can be opened, copied, cut, renamed, or deleted directly
from the list in the results window.
Browsing for files and folders
A file or folder that you need is rarely right on top of your Windows desktop. It is usually on a
drive inside a folder that may be inside yet another folder, and so on.
Windows drives, folders, and files are organized in the same way as a real file cabinet in that
they may have many levels (usually many more levels than a file cabinet, in fact). So you usually
will have to search through levels of folders to find the file or folder that you need. This is called
browsing.
To browse for a file:
1
2
Click
(Start), then click Computer. The Computer window opens.
Double-click the drive or folder that you think contains the file or folder that you want to
find.
3
Continue double-clicking folders and their subfolders until you find the file or folder you
want.
Help
For more information about browsing for files and folders, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type files an d fold ers in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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. Similar procedures apply to other programs such as Corel® WordPerfect®, Microsoft
Word, and Microsoft Excel.
For more information about using a program, click Help on its menu bar.
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CHAPTER 2: Using Windows Vista
Creating a new document
To create a new document:
1
Click
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, then click WordPad. Microsoft WordPad starts
and a blank document opens.
2
Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at the top of the
window to format the document.
Saving a document
After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later.
To save a document:
1
Click File, then click Save. The Save As dialog box opens.
File name
2
Click Browse Folders to open the Folders list, then click the folder where you want to
save the file.
3
4
Type a new file name in the File name box.
Click Save.
Help
For more information about saving documents, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type savin g in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
Opening a document
To view, revise, or print an existing document, first you need to open it. Open the document in
the program that it was created in.
To open a document:
1
2
Start the program.
Click File, then click Open.
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3
Click Folders to open the Folders list, then click the folder you want to open.
4
Double-click the document file name. The document opens.
Help
For more information about opening documents, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type open in g files in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
Printing a document
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.
To print a document:
1
2
3
4
Make sure that the printer is turned on and loaded with paper.
Start the program and open the document.
Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens.
Set the print options, then click Print. The document prints.
Help
For more information about printing documents, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type p rin tin g in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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CHAPTER 2: Using Windows Vista
Shortcuts
Help
For more information about Windows keyboard shortcuts, click Start, then click
Help and Support. Type Win d ow s keyboard sh ortcu ts in the Search Help box,
then press ENTER.
The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and almost all programs
that run in Windows. For more information about shortcuts, see your Windows or program
documentation.
To...
Do this...
Copy a file, folder, text, or
graphic
Click the item, then press CTRL + C.
Paste a file, folder, text, or
graphic
Click inside the folder or window where you want to
paste the object, then press CTRL + V.
Select multiple items in a
list or window
Click the first item, press and hold down the CTRL key,
then click each of the remaining items.
Select multiple adjacent
items in a list or window
Click the first item in the list, press and hold down the
SHIFT key, then click the last item in the list.
Permanently delete a file
or folder
Click the file or folder, then press SHIFT + DELETE. The file
or folder is permanently deleted. The file or folder is not
stored in the Recycle Bin.
Rename a file or folder
Click the file or folder, press F2, type the new name,
then press ENTER.
Close the active window
or program
Press ALT + F4.
Switch to a different file,
folder, or running
program
Press ALT + TAB.
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CHAPTER 3: Using the Internet and Faxes
Learning about the Internet
The Internet is a worldwide network of computers linked together to provide information to
people everywhere. 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).
Internet Servers
store information so other computers can
access it from the Internet.
ISP Servers
Your computer
connects to the Internet
through an ISP.
let you connect to the
Internet and access your
e-mail messages.
Important
To determine if you have an Ethernet jack on your computer, see your computer’s
hardware reference. If you do not have an Ethernet jack on your computer and would like
to purchase an Ethernet card, visit the Accessory Store at accessories.gateway.com.
If you want to access the Internet you need:
•
A modem—a device that connects your computer to other computers or servers using a
telephone, DSL, or cable television line. Your computer may have a built-in dial-up
telephone modem. Cable and DSL modems connect to your computer through an Ethernet
jack and provide a faster connection speed than a standard telephone modem.
•
An Internet service provider—a company that provides access to the Internet through an
ISP server. When you connect to an ISP, the ISP server lets you access the Internet and your
e-mail messages. Check your telephone book for a list of Internet service providers available
locally.
•
•
A Web browser—a program that displays information from the World Wide Web. Microsoft
Internet Explorer was included with your computer. For more information, see “Using the
World Wide Web” on page 19.
An e-mail program—a program that lets you create, send, and receive e-mail messages
over the Internet. Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express was included with your computer.
For more information, see “Using e-mail” on page 21.
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Setting up an Internet account
Before you can view the information on the World Wide Web, you need to set up an Internet
account with an 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. Because dial-up connections are designed to be temporary
connections to the Internet, dial-up charges (with both your telephone company and Internet
service provider) often increase the longer you connect to the Internet. To minimize the cost for
dial-up Internet users, we suggest that you only connect to the Internet during your e-mail and
Web browsing session, then disconnect when you are finished. Your Internet service provider
can provide instructions on how to connect to and disconnect from the Internet.
Cable and DSL modems, a connection known as broadband, use your cable television or special
telephone lines to connect to your ISP and access the Internet. In many instances, broadband is
considered an always-connected service. With this type of service, your cost is the same
regardless of the amount of time you use your Internet connection.
Accessing your Internet account
Help
For general information about using Internet accounts, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type ISP in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
The method you use to access your Internet account varies from ISP to ISP. Contact your ISP for
the correct procedure.
Using the World Wide Web
The World Wide Web is a multimedia window to the Internet that gives you access to millions of
information sources.
Information on the Web comes to you on Web pages, which are electronic documents that you
view using a Web page display program called a browser. You can use any of the commercially
available Web browsers, like Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.
Web pages can contain text, animations, music, and other multimedia features. A group of related
Web pages is called a Web site. You can access Web sites to shop, track investments, read the
news, download programs, and much more.
You can explore a Web site or visit other Web sites by clicking areas on a Web page called links
or hyperlinks. A link may be colored or underlined text, a picture, or an animated image. You
can identify a link by moving the mouse pointer over it. If the pointer changes to a hand, the
item is a link.
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CHAPTER 3: Using the Internet and Faxes
To learn more about using the Web browser features, click Help in the menu bar.
Link
Web
page
Linked Web page
Connecting to a Web site
After you set up an account with an Internet service provider (ISP), you can access the many
information sources on the World Wide Web.
To connect to a Web site:
1
2
Connect to your Internet account.
Depending on the method you use to connect to your Internet account, you may need to
start your Web browser. Click
(Start), then click Internet. Your default Web browser
opens showing an opening page or welcome screen.
3
To go to a different Web site, type the address (called a URL for “Universal Resource
Locator”) in the browser address bar (for example ww w.gateway.com ), then click GO
on the browser address bar.
- OR -
On the current Web page, click a link to a Web site.
Help
For more information about connecting to a Web site, click Start, then click
Help and Support. Type con n ectin g to a Web site in the Search Help box,
then press ENTER.
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. Additionally, the speed of your
connection will determine how fast Web pages display.
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Downloading files
Caution
To protect your computer against viruses, make sure that you scan the
files you download. For more information, see “Protecting your computer from
viruses” on page 63.
Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the Internet to your
computer.
To download files or programs from a Web site:
1
2
Connect to your Internet account.
In the address bar, type the address of the Web site that contains the file or program you
want to download, then press ENTER.
- OR -
Click a link on a Web page to navigate to the Web site containing the file that you want
to download.
3
Create or locate the folder where you want to store the file on your computer. For more
information, see “Working with files and folders” on page 9.
4
5
Click the link on the Web page for the file that you want to download.
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.
6
7
Open the folder that you created.
Install or view the downloaded file by double-clicking it. If applicable, follow the instructions
provided on the Web site to run or install the program.
Help
For more information about downloading files, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type dow n loadin g files in the Search Help box, then press
ENTER.
Using e-mail
E-mail (electronic mail) lets you send messages to anyone who has an Internet connection and
e-mail address. E-mail is usually a free service of your Internet account.
The Internet never closes, so you can send e-mail messages at any time. Your e-mail messages
arrive at most e-mail addresses in minutes.
An e-mail address consists of a user name, the @ symbol, and the Internet domain name of the
Internet service provider (ISP) or company that “hosts” that user. Your e-mail address is assigned
when you sign up for an account with an ISP. For example, a person with an account with Hotmail
might have an e-mail address that is similar to this one:
User name
Internet domain name
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CHAPTER 3: Using the Internet and Faxes
Sending e-mail
To send e-mail using Windows Mail:
1
2
3
4
5
6
Connect to your Internet service provider.
Click (Start), then click E-mail. Your default e-mail program opens.
Click Create Mail.
Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in the To box.
Type the subject of your e-mail in the Subject box.
Type the e-mail message.
Tip
Most e-mail programs let you attach files, such as photographs, to your
e-mail. For more information, see the help for your e-mail program.
7
When finished, click Send. Your e-mail is sent over the Internet to the e-mail address you
specified.
Checking your e-mail
Help
For general information about using e-mail, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type e-m ail in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
To check your e-mail using Windows Mail:
1
2
3
4
Connect to your Internet service provider.
Click (Start), then click E-Mail. Your default e-mail program opens.
Click Send/Receive.
Double-click the message you want to read.
Tip
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 63.
For more information about managing and organizing your e-mail messages, see the online help
in your e-mail program.
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Using faxes
Using Windows Fax and Scan
Windows Fax and Scan comes pre-installed with Windows Vista Business, Enterprise, or Ultimate
Editions. If your computer has a built-in fax modem, Windows automatically detects it during
the setup process. You can connect your computer to one local fax modem, although you can
connect to multiple fax servers or devices on a network. If you are not sure whether your
computer has a built-in fax modem, check the hardware information that came with your
computer. If you have an external fax modem, follow the manufacturer's instructions for
attaching it to your computer. Make sure that the modem is turned on before proceeding.
Your fax cover page, on which you can include all required information, is set up when you
prepare to send the first fax from this computer.
You cannot send or receive a fax using a cable or DSL modem by following these instructions.
Many Internet services exist that let you send or receive faxes using a broadband connection.
Your dial-up modem cable must be installed before you can send and receive faxes. You cannot
use your standard telephone modem to connect to the Internet while sending and receiving faxes.
Sending a Fax
Microsoft Fax lets you send and receive faxes using your dial-up modem.
To send a Fax:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Fax and Scan. Windows Fax and Scan
2
3
If Windows Fax and Scan is in Scan view, click Fax in the lower left corner of the window.
If you have never sent a fax on this computer before, click New Fax on the toolbar. The
Fax Setup window opens.
4
Click the type of connection you will be using (fax modem or fax server). The Choose a
modem name screen opens.
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CHAPTER 3: Using the Internet and Faxes
5
Type the name of the fax modem in the dialog box, then click Next. The Choose how to
receive faxes screen opens.
6
Click how you want to receive faxes, then click Unblock when the The Security Alert
window opens. The New Fax window opens.
7
Create your fax, then open the Cover Page menu by clicking the arrow and selecting a
cover page from the list. The Sender Information dialog box opens.
8
Type your information in the spaces provided, then click OK. The New Fax dialog box opens.
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9
To enter optional dialing rule information, click Dialing Rule and select a rule from the
menu. If you have not set up a dialing rule, select New Rule from the menu. The Location
Information dialog box opens.
10 Type your location information, then click OK. The Dialing Rules dialog box opens.
11 Highlight your location, then click Edit. The Edit Location dialog box opens.
12 Complete the location information, then click OK. You are returned to the Dialing Rules
dialog box.
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CHAPTER 3: Using the Internet and Faxes
13 Click OK. The New Fax dialog box opens.
14 Enter, scan, or attach the fax information you want to send, then click Send.
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. On this template, you insert information fields that automatically import values
you enter in both the Send Fax Wizard and the Fax Configuration Wizard when you send your fax.
To set up your fax cover page template:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Fax and Scan. Windows Fax and Scan
2
3
If Windows Fax and Scan is in Scan view, click Fax in the lower left corner of the window.
Click Tools, Cover Pages, then click New. The Fax Cover Page Editor opens.
•
If you want to include fields that are imported from the Send Fax Wizard or the Fax
Configuration Wizard (such as To or From), add them to the page by using the Insert
menu, then move them to the appropriate place on your template. You can also use
the Insert menu to include information that is automatically calculated (such as number
of pages or date and time sent).
•
•
If you want to include text that always appears on your cover page (such as a
letterhead or address), draw a box using the text box tool, type your text inside of it,
then move the box to the appropriate place on your template.
If you want to include a logo that appears on your cover page, copy it to the Windows
clipboard, then paste it into the Cover Page Editor and move it to the appropriate place
on your template.
4
5
To save your cover page template, click File, then click Save. The Save As dialog box opens
with your personal cover pages folder already in the Save in list.
Type the new cover page template name, then click Save.
Faxing a scanned document or from programs
To fax a scanned document or directly from most programs:
1
Scan the document using the program for your scanner, or open your document in the
program it was created in.
2
3
Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens.
Click the arrow button to open the Name list, then click the Fax printer.
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4
5
Click Print. The Send Fax Wizard opens.
Complete the wizard by following the instructions in “Sending a Fax” on page 23, or “Faxing
a scanned document or from programs” on page 26.
Canceling a fax
You can cancel a fax that you have set up to send at a time in the future.
To cancel a fax that has not been sent:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Fax and Scan. Windows Fax and Scan
2
3
4
5
If Windows Fax and Scan is in Scan view, click Fax in the lower left corner of the window.
Click Outbox, then right-click the fax you want to cancel.
Click Delete to cancel the fax.
Click Yes.
Receiving and viewing a fax
To receive and view a fax:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Fax and Scan. Windows Fax and Scan
2
3
If Windows Fax and Scan is in Scan view, click Fax in the lower left corner of the window.
To view a fax, click Inbox, then double-click the fax you want to view. The fax viewer
opens, where you can view and print the fax.
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CHAPTER 3: Using the Internet and Faxes
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• Using the diskette drive
• Using the memory card reader
• Using an optical drive
• Playing music and movies
• Creating audio files and music libraries
• Creating music CDs and video DVDs
• Creating and copying data discs
• Using Windows Media Center
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
Using the memory card reader
You can use the optional memory card reader to transfer pictures from a digital camera to your
computer. You can also use the memory card reader to transfer data between your computer
and a device that uses memory cards, such as a PDA, MP3 player, or cellular telephone. (Your
computer’s memory card reader may look different.)
Memory card reader slots
Activity indicator
Memory card types
The memory card reader supports several memory card types. To determine which types are
supported by your card reader, and what types the slots should be used for, examine the face
plate of the reader. Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, the E: and F: drives)
so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.
Using a memory card
Caution
Before inserting a memory card into a slot, make sure that the slot is empty, or you
could damage the card reader.
To insert a memory card:
1
2
Insert the memory card into the appropriate memory card slot.
To access a file on the memory card, click
(Start), then click Computer. Double-click
the drive letter (for example, the E: drive), then double-click the file name.
To remove a memory card:
•
Wait for the memory card reader access indicator to stop blinking, then pull the memory
card out of the slot.
Caution
Do not remove the memory card or turn off the computer while the memory
card reader access indicator is blinking. You could lose data. Also, remove the
memory card from the reader before you turn off the computer.
Important
Do not use the remove hardware icon in the taskbar to remove the
memory card, or you will have to restart the computer to re-enable the memory
card reader.
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Using the diskette drive
The optional diskette drive (not available on all systems) uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called
floppy disks). Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer. (Your
computer’s diskette drive may look different.)
Drive activity light
Diskette slot
Eject button
To use a diskette:
1
2
Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up.
To access a file on the diskette, click
(Start), then click Computer. Double-click the
diskette drive letter (for example, the A: drive), then double-click the file name.
3
To remove the diskette, make sure that the drive activity light is off, then press the diskette
eject button.
Using an optical drive
You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features using optical disc
drives, which include CD drives, Blu-ray drives, and DVD and HD-DVD drives.
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 optical drive has
this logo...
Your drive type is...
CD
Use your drive for...
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, and
accessing data.
Installing programs, playing audio CDs,
accessing data, and creating CDs.
CD-RW
Installing programs, playing audio CDs,
DVD/CD-RW
DVD
accessing data, creating CDs, and playing DVDs.
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs, and accessing data.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
If your optical drive has
this logo...
Your drive type is...
DVD+RW
Use your drive for...
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and
data to CDs and DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and
data to CDs and DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and
DVD-RW discs.
DVD R/RW
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and
data to CDs and double layer DVD+R discs.
Note: To use the double layer capability of the
double layer recordable DVD drive, the blank
DVDs you purchase must state Double Layer,
Dual Layer, or DL. Using other types of blank
media will result in less capacity.
Double layer DVD+RW
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and
data to CDs and DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW
discs.
DVD-RAM/-RW
Blu-ray Disc
HD-DVD
RECORDER
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs, playing Blu-ray Discs, accessing data, and
recording video and data to CDs, DVD-RAM,
DVD-R, DVD-RW, and Blu-ray discs.
Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing
DVDs and HD-DVDs, accessing data, and
recording video and data to CDs, DVD-RAM,
DVD-R, DVD-RW, and HD-DVD discs.
Inserting an optical disc
Activity indicator
(location varies)
Manual eject hole
(location varies)
Eject button
To insert an optical disc:
1
Press the eject button on the optical disc drive.
Important
When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure that the label side
is facing up. If the disc has two playable sides, place the disc so the name of the
side you want to play is facing up.
2
3
Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up.
Press the eject button to close the tray.
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Playing a CD
Important
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these
CDs on your computer.
A standard Compact Disc (CD) can hold an entire album of digital songs and can be played on a
CD player or your computer’s CD drive.
Use a music program or Windows Media Player on your computer to:
•
•
•
•
Play music CDs
Create MP3 music files from your music CDs
Use your music files to build a music library
For more information about playing CDs, see “Playing music and movies” on page 34.
Playing a DVD
A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because
of this increased capacity, full-length movies, several albums of music, or several gigabytes of
data can fit on a single disc. DVDs can be played on a DVD player or a DVD drive-equipped
computer. For more information about playing DVDs, see “Playing music and movies” on page 34.
Playing a Blu-ray Disc
Blu-ray Disc is a high-capacity optical disc that can store much more data than a DVD. A dual-layer
Blu-ray Disc can hold 50 GB of files, about 23 hours of standard-definition video, or about nine
hours of high-definition video. Blu-ray Discs can be played on a Blu-ray-compatible player or a
Blu-ray drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing Blu-ray Discs, see “Playing
music and movies” on page 34.
Playing an HD-DVD
HD-DVD is a high-capacity optical disc that can store much more data than a DVD. A dual-layer
HD-DVD can hold 30 GB of files, about 14 hours of standard-definition video, or about 5.5 hours
of high-definition video. HD-DVDs can be played on an HD-DVD-compatible player or an HD-DVD
drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing HD-DVDs, see “Playing music and
Recording to optical discs
You can use the disc burning program on your computer to copy tracks from a music CD to your
hard drive, copy or create data discs, create music CDs, create video DVDs, and more. For more
information about creating CDs and DVDs, see “Creating music CDs and video DVDs” on page 40.
Creating audio and video files
You can create audio and music files, either from scratch or from music CDs. You can also create
video files from home video. For more information, see “Creating audio files and music libraries”
on page 37.
Copying optical discs
You can copy optical discs to make backups of your data. For more information, see “Creating
and copying data discs” on page 43.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
Playing music and movies
Playing audio and video files
Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files, including WAV, MIDI, MP3,
AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. For more information about using Windows Media Player, click Help.
To play a file using Windows Media Player:
Shortcut
Start Ö Computer Ö find the file Ö double-click the file
1
2
Click
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player
opens.
Click Library, then double-click the media file you want to play.
Playback controls
Media library
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3
Click one of the following to control playback:
Repeat
Rewind
Fast forward
Volume
Shuffle
Stop
Pause/Play
Mute
•
•
•
•
Shuffle randomizes the playback order of the files in the playlist.
Repeat starts playing the list over again after it reaches the end.
Stop stops playback and rewinds the current file to the beginning.
Rewind quickly rewinds the current file (when you click and hold it) or skips to the
previous file in the playlist (when you click it).
•
•
Pause/Play alternately pauses and resumes playback.
Fast forward quickly fast forwards the current file (when you click and hold it) or
skips to the next file in the playlist (when you click it).
•
Volume adjusts the volume.
Playing optical discs
Optical discs are flat discs that use a laser to read and write data. CDs, DVDs, HD-DVDs, and Blu-ray
Discs are all optical discs.
Important
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these
CDs on your computer.
To watch a DVD you must have a DVD-compatible drive in your computer. If you do not
have a DVD-compatible drive and would like to add an internal or external drive, visit the
Help
For more information about playing optical discs, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type playin g d iscs in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
Playing an optical disc using Windows Media Player
Use Windows Media Player to listen to CDs or watch movies on DVDs, HD-DVDs, or Blu-ray Discs.
For more information about using Windows Media Player, click Help.
To play an optical disc:
Shortcut
Insert disc Ö Windows Media Player automatically plays
1
2
Make sure that the speakers are turned on or headphones are plugged in and that the
volume is turned up.
Insert an optical disc into the optical disc drive.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
3
If a dialog box opens and asks you what you want the computer to do with the disc, click
Play. Windows Media Player opens and begins playing the disc.
If Windows Media Player does not open automatically, click
click Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player opens.
(Start), All Programs, then
Playlist
Video screen
Playback controls
4
If the disc is not already playing, click (play).
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5
Click one of the following to control playback:
Repeat
Rewind
Fast forward
Volume
Shuffle
Stop
Pause/Play
Mute
•
•
•
•
Shuffle randomizes the playback order of the files in the playlist.
Repeat starts playing the list over again after it reaches the end.
Stop stops playback and rewinds the current file to the beginning.
Rewind quickly rewinds the current file (when you click and hold it) or skips to the
previous file in the playlist (when you click it).
•
•
Pause/Play alternately pauses and resumes playback.
Fast forward quickly fast forwards the current file (when you click and hold it) or
skips to the next file in the playlist (when you click it).
•
Volume adjusts the volume.
Creating audio files and music libraries
Creating music files
Help
For more information about making or playing an audio recording, click Start, then
click Help and Support. Type record in g au d io or rip p in g in the Search Help box,
then press ENTER.
You can create several types of audio files for your listening enjoyment, including WAV, MP3,
and WMA files.
Recording audio files
Sound recorder is a simple Windows program that lets you record and play audio files. For
information about playing audio files, see “Playing audio and video files” on page 34.
To record an audio file:
Shortcut
Start Ö All Programs Ö Accessories Ö Sound Recorder
1
2
Plug a microphone into one of the microphone jacks on your computer. For the location
of the microphone jacks, see your computer’s Reference Guide.
Click
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, then click Sound Recorder. The
Sound Recorder opens.
3
Click Start Recording, then speak or make other sounds into the microphone.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
4
5
When you finish recording, click Stop Recording. The Save As dialog box opens.
Type a name for the recording, specify the file type and location where you want to save
the recording, then click Save. The recording is saved.
Creating WMA and MP3 music files
Important
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You cannot copy tracks from
copy-protected 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. WMA files end in the file extension
WMA, and MP3 files end in the file extension MP3.
To create WMA or MP3 files:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player
2
3
4
Insert a music CD into your optical disc drive.
Click the Rip tab. The Rip screen opens.
Click to clear the check box for any track you do not want to record, then click Start Rip.
Windows Media Player records the tracks to your hard drive as WMA files. A progress bar
appears next to each track as it is recorded.
Tip
For more information about ripping music from CDs, click the Rip tab, then
click Help with Ripping.
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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.
You can add music tracks to your music library by:
•
Creating MP3 or WMA files—When you create MP3 or WMA files from the tracks on your
music CD, Windows Media Player automatically adds these files to your music library.
•
Dragging and Dropping—Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer or your desktop
to the music library.
Caution
During the download process, WMA and MP3 files may become corrupt. If
you are having trouble playing a downloaded file, try downloading the file again.
•
Downloading files from the Internet—When you are connected to the Internet, WMA
and MP3 files that you download are automatically added to your music library.
Editing track information
After you add a WMA or MP3 file to your music library, you can edit the track’s tags
(informational fields).
To edit track information:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player
2
3
Click the Library tab.
Right-click the track or album you want to edit, then click Advanced Tag Editor. The
Advanced Tag Editor dialog box opens.
4
Enter track information such as Title, Artist, Album, and Genre, then click OK. The new
track information appears in the Windows Media Player library.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
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. Otherwise, you may be violating copyright law and be subject to payment of
damages and other remedies. If you are uncertain about your rights, contact your legal
advisor
Creating a music CD using Windows Media Player
To create a music CD using Windows Media Player:
1
Click
opens.
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Media Player. Windows Media Player
2
3
Insert a blank, writable CD into your recordable disc drive.
Click the Burn tab, then click and drag songs that you want to burn to CD from the Library
to the Burn List.
Library
Burn List
4
Click Start Burn. The music is recorded onto the blank CD.
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Creating a video DVD
Creating a video DVD using Windows DVD Maker
If your computer has Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate Edition, you can
create video DVDs using Windows DVD Maker.
To create a video DVD using Windows DVD Maker:
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. Otherwise, you may be violating copyright law and be subject
to payment of damages and other remedies. If you are uncertain about your rights,
contact your legal advisor.
1
2
Insert a blank, writeable DVD into your recordable optical disc drive.
Click
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows DVD Maker. The Windows DVD Maker
introduction window opens.
3
Click Choose Photos and Videos. The main screen opens.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
4
Click Add items. The Add Items to DVD dialog box opens.
5
Find and select the videos you want to add to the video DVD, then click Add. The videos
are added to the video list, and a graphic in the lower left corner of the window shows
you how much disc capacity will be used.
6
Click Next. The Ready to burn disc dialog box opens.
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7
8
Click any of the following options to customize your video disc:
•
•
•
Preview shows how your DVD’s opening menu will look using the current settings.
Menu text changes the disc title, font, and button names.
Customize menu changes the menu fonts, background and foreground videos, audio
track, and button styles.
•
Slide show creates a slide show from photo files.
Click Burn. Your DVD is recorded.
Creating and copying data discs
You can burn two types of data discs:
•
Live File System writes files immediately to the recordable disc, making it a one-step
process like copying files to a flash drive. Windows XP and later versions of Windows
support this feature.
•
Mastered copies files to a temporary folder before you tell the computer to burn the files
to the disc. Although this is a slower process than Live File System, the resulting disc is
compatible with all operating systems.
The instructions below show you how to burn a disc using the Mastered format, which can be
read by all personal computers, regardless of the operating system installed.
Help
For information about burning a disc using the Live File System format, click Start,
then click Help and Support. Type live file system in the Search Help box, then
press ENTER.
Creating a data disc
To create a data disc:
Important
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.
1
Insert a blank, writable optical disc into your optical disc drive. The Autoplay dialog box
opens.
2
3
4
5
Click Burn files to disc. The Prepare this blank disc dialog box opens.
Type the title of the disc, then click Show formatting options.
Click Mastered, then click Next. An empty folder opens.
Open the folder that contains the files you want to burn to disc, then click and drag the
files to the empty disc folder.
6
Click Burn to disc. The files are burned to the disc.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
Using Windows Media Center
If your computer has Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate Edition, you can
use Windows Media Center to watch TV, videos, and movies, listen to music, and view photos.
Media Center is a simplified, streamlined interface that is ideally suited for playing and managing
media files.
Because the remote control is an optional accessory, most instructions in this section assume
you are using a mouse to navigate the Media Center menus.
Starting Windows Media Center
To start Windows Media Center:
1
Click
(Start), All Programs, then click Windows Media Center.
- OR -
Press the Start
button on the remote control.
The first time you start Windows Media Center, the Welcome screen opens.
2
For the easiest setup, click Express setup, then click OK. The Windows Media Center’s main
screen opens.
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3
Use the remote control navigation buttons to select a Media Center menu option, then
press OK.
•
TV + Movies lets you play TV programs you have recorded, play a DVD or Blu-ray
movie, or set up your TV tuner card (if installed).
•
•
Online Media lets you play online games.
Tasks lets you set up your display and media types, shut down or restart your
computer, burn an optical disc (CD or DVD), and synchronize with another digital media
device (such as an MP3 player).
•
•
Pictures + Videos lets you view individual pictures, pictures in a slideshow, or select
movies from your video library.
Music lets you select songs from your music library, set up and use your FM radio
tuner card (if installed), and play music playlists.
4
To exit Windows Media Center, click the X in the upper-right corner of the screen.
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CHAPTER 4: Using Drives and Media Files
Using the Media Center remote control
You can use the optional remote control to play all of your media files from across the room.
(The remote control included with your computer may look different from that shown below.)
Shortcut buttons
Power button
Start button
Transport buttons
Navigation buttons
Audio/Video (A/V) control buttons
Numeric keypad/data entry buttons
Button(s)
Functions
Shortcut buttons
Start button
Give you direct access to Media Center features.
Opens the Media Center’s main menu.
Audio/Video (A/V) control
buttons
Lets you control volume levels, volume mute, channel selections, and
the movie menu.
Numeric keypad/data entry
button
Lets you enter numbers and characters from the remote control.
Power button
Puts the Media Center computer in Sleep mode (reduced power).
Let you control the playback of media files and optical discs.
Transport buttons
Navigation buttons
Let you move the cursor around the Guide and menus, make selections,
navigate back to the previous screen, change the screen display aspect
ratio, and get more information. Press the OK button to make a
selection.
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
Introduction to networking
Making sure your broadband connection works
Important
If you do not have a broadband connection already installed, make the necessary
arrangements with your ISP. Be sure to find out how soon after the installation the line
will be activated.
Broadband Internet settings differ from ISP to ISP. Before you begin setting up your
network, you should contact your ISP for any specific instructions they have for setting
up a network.
Before you change anything about your home setup, make sure that your broadband connection
is working correctly. To test the connection, log onto the Internet using your current setup. If
the connection is not working, contact your Internet service provider.
Networking terms you should know
DHCP—Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) lets a router temporarily assign an IP address
to a computer on the network.
IP Address—Internet Protocol (IP) address is a number that uniquely identifies a computer on
the network.
Subnet Mask—Subnet mask is a number that identifies what subnetwork the computer is
located on. This number will be the same on all computers on a home network.
Wired Ethernet networking
An wired Ethernet network consists of two or more computers connected together through an
Ethernet cable. This connection type is commonly used in offices around the world and can be
used to build computer networks in the home.
Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, or Gigabit Ethernet
Important
Check local code requirements before installing Ethernet cable or other wiring in
your home or office. Your municipality may require you to obtain a permit and hire a
licensed installer.
Ethernet is available at three different speeds. Standard Ethernet runs at 10 Mbps, Fast Ethernet
runs at 100 Mbps, and Gigabit Ethernet runs at 1000 Mbps. Most home networks are built using
Standard or Fast Ethernet components. Business networks are typically built using Fast or Gigabit
Ethernet components.
To create a wired Ethernet network, you or your electrician must install special Ethernet cables
in your home or office.
Using a router
The most common way to set up a wired 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.
Example router-based Ethernet network
The following is an example of a wired Ethernet network. The network is made up of a router,
a cable or DSL modem, your computers, and cables connecting each of these components. The
router is the central control point for the network.
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Important
To add the ability to access a wireless Ethernet network to your wired Ethernet
network, connect an access point to the router or use a router that has a built-in access
point.
Attached to the router are all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to
the router is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.
Cable/DSL
modem
Router
Equipment you need for a router-based Ethernet network
Important
For best results, all Ethernet components should be either standard Ethernet (10
Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or
10/100/1000). A mixture of components rated at different speeds will result in your
network running at the speed of the slowest rated component.
For a wired 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
When buying your router, be sure the model includes everything your network needs, including:
•
Internet security features, such as a firewall, to protect your network from unwanted
intruders
•
•
4-port switch to eliminate the need for additional network hardware
DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment to automatically configure network and IP
addresses
Determining if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer
To determine if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer:
1
2
Click
(Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
Click System and Maintenance, then click System.
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
3
4
Click Device Manager from the task list on the left. The Device Manager window opens.
Click the plus (+) in front of Network adapters. The Ethernet device installed in your
computer is listed. If one is not listed, you must install one.
Setting up wired Ethernet network hardware
Installing Ethernet cards and drivers
After you have determined the type of Ethernet you are using for your network, you need to
install 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
Use the documentation that comes with your Ethernet cards for instructions on installing the
card and any required drivers.
Plug your Ethernet cable into your computer’s jack and the router or the cable or DSL modem
at this point, if you have not already done so.
Connecting network cables
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. This type of cable is equipped with RJ-45 connectors (like a large telephone
jack connector, but with eight pins) on each end.
Category 5 cables are available in two different types; straight-through cables, used to connect
computers to a router, and crossover cables, used to connect two computers.
To determine which type of cable you have, hold both ends of the cable with the connectors
facing away from you and with the spring clip on the bottom. For straight-through cable, the
wires on both connectors are attached to copper pins in the same order (same colors, left to
right). For a crossover cable, the wires on each connector are attached to the copper pins in a
different order (different colors, left to right).
Setting up a network using a router
If you are setting up a network for more than two computers and you will be connecting your
network to a high-speed 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.
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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
To set up a network using a router:
1
Plug one end of the power adapter into the AC connector on the router and the other end
into a grounded, 110V electrical outlet.
2
3
Turn on your computers.
Plug one end of a straight-through network cable into any numbered port on the router
(except the WAN port). The WAN port is used to connect the router to the DSL or cable
modem and is identified by a label or a switch. Plug the other end of the cable into the
network connector on the computer. As each computer is connected to the router, the
corresponding green indicator should light on the front of the router, indicating a good
connection.
4
5
Repeat Step 3 for each computer on the network.
For an Internet connection, plug a straight-through cable into the WAN port on the router
and the other end into the Ethernet jack on the DSL or cable modem.
Wireless Ethernet networking
Wireless Ethernet networking is the latest advance in computer communication. With a wireless
home network, you can set up your computer wherever you like.
A wireless Ethernet network uses radio waves to communicate. Typically, a wireless Ethernet
network is made up of an access point, a cable or DSL modem (for Internet access), and your
wireless computers.
Wireless Ethernet standards
Current wireless Ethernet standards include the following:
•
•
•
•
802.11a — 54Mbps
802.11b — 11Mbps
802.11g — 54Mbps
802.11n — 540Mbps
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
Speed is not the only issue if you decide to use equipment with different standards. Compatibility
can also be an issue. Take the following into consideration when you purchase wireless
equipment:
Access point
802.11a
Wireless cards supported
802.11a only
802.11b
802.11b only
802.11g
802.11b and 802.11g
802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n
802.11n
Using an access point
An access point is a small electronic device that serves as the central control point for your
network. You connect your modem to the access point, set up a network connection, then browse
the Internet, send e-mail, share files and folders with other networked computers, and access
other devices, like a printer or scanner.
Cable or DSL modem
Access point
Equipment you need for an access point-based network
Tip
When you buy your access point, make sure it has:
• IEEE 802.11n support. 802.11n is the fastest method for wireless
communications. 802.11n is compatible with the older IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11b
formats but not with the competing IEEE 802.11a format. Make sure that you get the correct
format that matches your computer.
• DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment capability that makes it easier to set
up and access your network.
• Internet security features like a firewall to keep intruders out of your network.
• Wireless security features like SecureEasySetup™ or 128-bit WEP encryption.
If you are not sure what to buy, check out Gateway’s accessory store at
For a wireless Ethernet network you need:
•
•
•
Your Gateway computer with a wireless Ethernet network card installed
A broadband Internet connection (optional)
An access point
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Determining if a wireless Ethernet device is already installed on your computer
To determine if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer:
1
2
3
4
Click
(Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
Click System and Maintenance, then click System.
Click Device Manager from the task list on the left. The Device Manager window opens.
Click the plus (+) in front of Network adapters. The wireless Ethernet device installed in
your computer is listed. If one is not listed, you must install one.
Setting up wireless Ethernet network hardware
Installing wireless cards and drivers
After you have determined the type of wireless equipment you are using for your network, you
need to install wireless cards and drivers on the computers that do not have them already
installed. To order wireless Ethernet PCI or PC cards, visit the Accessories Store at
Use the documentation that comes with your wireless cards for instructions on installing the cards
and any required drivers.
Setting up your access point
A wireless Ethernet network sends and receives information through radio waves. This means
that another computer outside your network can intercept the radio waves and take control of
your network.
If you do not set up security for your network, a hacker can gain access to your Internet
connection to send spam e-mail and to your hard drive to download viruses or view your personal
data, like credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, and personal online banking information.
Check your access point documentation for information about installing it and setting network
security.
Setting up your network connection
Naming the computers and the workgroup
Important
You must give each computer on the network a unique Computer Name
and the same Workgroup Name.
Make sure that you have set up your router (wired network) or access point (wireless network).
If you are setting up a wired network, make sure that you have connected the network cabling.
To identify this computer on the network:
1
2
3
Click
(Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
Click System and Maintenance. The System and Maintenance window opens.
Click System, then click Change Settings in the Computer Name, Domain and
Workgroup settings area. The System Properties dialog box opens.
4
5
Click Change.
If your computer does not already have a name, 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. Names
must contain some letters.
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
6
7
Type a name for your workgroup in the Workgroup box. Use a workgroup name of up
to 15 characters with no blank spaces. The workgroup name must be the same for all
computers in your network workgroup, and the name must be different than any computer
name on your network.
Click OK. When you are prompted to restart your computer, click Restart Now.
Configuring the TCP/IP protocol
A networking protocol is a language computers use to talk to each other. One of several available
protocols must be set up on each computer you plan to use on your network. We recommend
you use the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), which is widely accepted
and compatible for local area networks (LANs), as well as for Internet communications.
When networking is set up in Windows Vista, TCP/IP is automatically installed as the default
protocol.
Using a DHCP server
In order to use the TCP/IP protocol on a computer with a router or access point router, the
protocol must be set to “Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server.” This is typically preset when
you receive your computer.
Configuring your router
After you have named your computers and set up TCP/IP on them, you can configure your router
using your Web browser. For instructions, see your router’s documentation.
Connecting to a wireless Ethernet network
Important
Each computer on your network needs a unique Computer Name. All the computers
on your network need the same Workgroup Name. You may have already named your
computer and workgroup the first time you turned on your computer.
Connecting to your network
Help
For more information about connecting to your network, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type the following in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
• Con n ect to an available n etw ork
• Man u ally ad d a wireless Eth ern et n etw ork
• Con n ectin g to wireless Eth ern et n etw ork
After you have named your computer and workgroup, you need to set up the network connection
on your computer.
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To connect to your wireless Ethernet network:
1
Click
(Start), then click Network. The Network window opens.
2
Click Network and Sharing Center. The Network and Sharing Center window opens.
3
Click Connect to a network on the left of the window. The Connect to a network dialog
box opens.
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
4
Click a network, then click Connect.
If you can see the network name, but you cannot connect to it, your network is using
security. Right-click on the network, then click Properties. Modify the security settings to
match the settings you set on your access point.
Wireless security
For information on wireless security, refer to the documentation that came with your access point.
Help
For more information about wireless network security methods, click Start, then
click Help and Support. Type w ireless n etw ork secu rity m eth od s in the Search
Help box, then press ENTER.
Testing your network
Now that your home network is set up, log onto one of your computers and access a favorite
Internet Web site.
If you are unable to connect to the Internet:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, Network and Internet, then click the Network and
Sharing Center.
2
Choose Diagnose and Repair on the left of the window. Take any actions suggested.
•
•
If you are using a wired Ethernet network, check all physical cable connections
If you are using a wireless Ethernet network, make sure that your access point is
plugged in and compare the status lights on the front of the access point with the
patterns described in the access point documentation
•
Compare the status lights on the front of the router or access point with the patterns
described in the router or access point literature
•
•
•
•
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
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:
•
Connect your printer to your networked computer, then share the printer. For information
about sharing printers, see “Sharing drives and printers” on page 57.
•
Connect your printer to your router or access point if the router or access point includes
a USB or parallel port. For more information, see the instructions that came with your router
or access point.
•
•
Use a printer that has built-in networking.
Use a print server.
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Sharing resources
With a network, you can share your Internet connection, drives, and printers.
Sharing drives and printers
With a network, you can share drives (for example hard drives and DVD drives) and printers
among the computers connected to the network.
Important
To share a printer among the network computers, each computer must have the
shared printer’s drivers installed. 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:
•
•
•
View a network drive
Open and copy files stored on other network computers
Print documents on network printers
Sharing drives or folders
To share drives or folders:
1
2
Click
(Start), then click Computer.
Right-click the drive or folder that you want to share, then click Share. The Properties
dialog box opens.
If you share a drive, the entire contents of that drive will be available to everyone on your
network. If you share a folder, only the contents of that folder will be available to everyone
on the network.
3
Click the Sharing tab.
If Share is grayed out, click Advanced Sharing to set sharing for this drive/folder.
Click OK, then click Close.
4
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
Un-sharing drives and folders
To un-share drives or folders:
1
2
3
4
Click
(Start), then click Computer.
Right-click the drive or folder that you want to un-share, then click Share.
Click Advanced Sharing, then click Share this folder (or drive) to uncheck the box.
Click Apply, then click OK.
Sharing printers
To share printers:
1
2
3
Click
(Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
Under Hardware and Sound, click Printer The Printers window opens.
Right-click the name and icon of the printer you want to share, then click Sharing on the
menu.
4
On the Sharing tab, click Share this printer, then click OK.
Using the network
After the drives and printers on each network computer are shared, you can:
•
•
•
•
View shared drives and folders
Map a network drive
Open and copy files stored on other network computers
Print documents on network printers
Viewing shared drives and folders
Help
For more information about workgroups, click Start, then click Help and Support.
Type w orkgrou p s in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
To view shared drives and folders:
1
2
Click
(Start), then click Network. The Network window opens.
If no drives or folders are displayed, click the option bar under the menu bar, then click
Turn on network discover and file sharing.
3
Double-click the name of the computer containing the drive or folder you want to view.
All shared drives and folders are listed.
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Creating a shortcut to a network drive
After a shortcut is created on a computer for a drive or folder on another computer, the contents
of the drive or folder can be accessed as if the drive were attached directly to the computer.
For example, a shortcut is created on computer 2 to the Documents folder on computer 1. To
access the Documents folder on computer 1 from computer 2, double-click shortcut icon.
To map a network drive:
1
2
3
Locate the drive or folder by completing the steps in “Viewing shared drives and folders”
on page 58.
Right-click the drive or folder, then click Create Shortcut. A shortcut is created for the
drive or folder and the icon for the shortcut is placed on your desktop.
Click X to close the window.
Opening files across the network
To open files across the network:
1
2
3
4
Start the program for the file you want to open.
Click File, then click Open.
Browse to the network drive that contains the file you want to open.
Double-click the folder containing the file, then double-click the file.
Copying files across the network
To copy files across the network:
1
2
3
4
5
Click
(Start), then click Computer. The Computer window opens.
Browse to the network drive that contains the file you want to copy.
Browse to the file you want to copy.
Right-click the file, then click Copy.
Right-click the folder where you want to copy the file to, then click Paste.
Printing files across the network
Important
Before you can print a file across the network, you must install the driver for the
printer on the computer you are sending the file from. You can obtain the printer driver
and installation instructions from the CD that shipped with your printer or from the
manufacturer’s Web site.
To print files across the network:
1
2
3
Open the file you want to print, then click Print.
Click the arrow button to open the printer name list, then click the network printer.
Click Print.
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer
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CHAPTER 6: Protecting Your Computer
Hardware security
Although you may be able to replace your computer with a call to your insurance agent, you
cannot replace the information stored on your computer. Take steps to prevent theft of your
computer.
Kensington lock slot
The first step in computer security is preventing your computer from being stolen.
Attach a cable lock to the Kensington lock slot on 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.
For the location of the Kensington lock slot, see your reference guide.
Data security
The second step in computer security is keeping your data safe and secure.
Startup and hard drive password
Use a startup and hard drive password to keep other people from using your computer. You
have to enter your password when you turn on your computer or access your files.
These passwords are set in your computer’s BIOS setup utility. Use a password that you can
remember but that would be hard for someone else to guess.
Tip
For instructions on creating a startup and hard drive password, see your computer’s
Reference Guide. Make sure that you use a password you can remember. The password
feature is very secure, and you cannot bypass it. If you forget your password, you will
have to return your computer to Gateway so we can reset it.
Windows user accounts
Windows lets you set up a user account for each person who uses your computer. When you
set up user accounts, Windows sets up a Documents folder for each account. You can assign a
password to each account so only the account owner can access files in the Documents folder.
When you set up a user account, you can also limit the programs that a user can install or run.
Help
For more information about Windows user accounts, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type u ser accou n ts in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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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.
Protect your computer from a virus by:
•
Registering your copy of McAfee SecurityCenter and subscribing to the virus definition
update service. You may have received a free limited time subscription to one of these
services when you purchased your computer.
•
Using the McAfee VirusScan program to check files and programs that are attached to
e-mail messages or downloaded from the Internet.
•
•
Checking all programs for viruses before installing them.
Disabling macros on suspicious Microsoft Word and Excel files. These programs will warn
you if a document that you are opening contains a macro that might have a virus.
•
•
Periodically updating the McAfee VirusScan program to protect against the latest viruses.
Making sure the Windows Security Center is configured to provide you with the highest
level of protection. For more information about modifying security settings, see “Modifying
security settings” on page 67.
Your new Gateway computer may have the McAfee SecurityCenter installed. The McAfee
SecurityCenter includes the following components:
•
McAfee VirusScan is an anti-virus subscription service. You can use VirusScan to protect
your computer from viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and hybrid attacks.
•
McAfee Personal Firewall blocks unwanted inbound and outbound Internet traffic to
prevent hacker attacks.
•
•
McAfee Privacy Service protects against online identity theft by blocking the transmission
of personally identifiable information. This service also filters offensive online content
(including pop-ups, ads, and web-bugs) and monitors, controls, and logs where children
surf.
McAfee Spamkiller prevents identified spam from reaching your e-mail inbox and protects
you against known Phishing scams.
Help
For more information about protecting your computer against viruses, click Start,
then click Help and Support. Type viru ses in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
Using McAfee SecurityCenter
Scanning for and removing viruses
To scan for and remove viruses:
1
Click
(Start), All Programs, McAfee, then click McAfee SecurityCenter. McAfee
SecurityCenter opens.
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CHAPTER 6: Protecting Your Computer
2
Click Scan. McAfee scans your computer for viruses and automatically removes any that
it finds. When McAfee is finished scanning, the program displays a summary of the items
detected and removed from your computer.
Updating your virus definitions
McAfee is set up to automatically retrieve the latest virus definitions from the Internet and install
them on your computer. If you turn off this automatic feature, you should manually update your
virus definitions.
To update your virus definitions:
1
2
Make sure that you are connected to the Internet.
Click
(Start), All Programs, McAfee, then click McAfee SecurityCenter. McAfee
SecurityCenter opens.
3
Click Update. The McAfee SecurityCenter checks for updates.
Important
To update McAfee SecurityCenter after the subscription period expires, you must
extend your subscription.
Configuring McAfee VirusScan
You can configure McAfee VirusScan to perform a virus scan at certain times and on certain drives
on your computer. You can also configure the types of files that it scans for.
To configure McAfee VirusScan:
1
Click
(Start), All Programs, McAfee, then click McAfee SecurityCenter. McAfee
SecurityCenter opens.
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2
3
4
Click Computer & Files. A list of services appears to the right of Computer & Files category.
Click Configure in the services area. The Computer & Files Configuration screen opens.
Click the grey Virus protection is enabled bar to expand that area, then click Advanced.
5
6
Click the type of scan you want to configure, then set the options for that scan type.
Click OK.
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CHAPTER 6: Protecting Your Computer
Using McAfee Parental Controls
You can use McAfee Parental Controls to restrict your children from accessing specific Web sites
or spending too much time on the Internet.
To use McAfee Parental Controls:
1
2
3
Click
(Start), All Programs, McAfee, then click McAfee SecurityCenter. McAfee
SecurityCenter opens.
Click Parental Controls, then click Configure in the services area. The Parental Controls
Configuration screen opens.
Click the grey Parental controls are disabled bar to expand that area, then click
Advanced.
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4
5
Click the control you want to configure, then follow the instructions for modifying that
control.
Click OK.
Using Windows Security Center
Windows Security Center helps protect your computer through:
A firewall
Automatic Windows updates
•
•
•
•
Third party virus protection software
Security options in Internet Explorer
Modifying security settings
To modify security settings:
1
2
Click
(Start), Control Panel, then click Security.
Click Security Center. The Windows Security Center dialog box opens.
3
4
Click:
•
•
Windows Update to run Windows Update or modify the Windows Update settings.
Windows Firewall to prevent outsiders from accessing the information on your
computer.
•
Windows Defender to scan your computer for malicious or unwanted software that
may have been placed on your computer either from an Internet web site or from
other programs that you have installed.
•
Internet Options to prevent certain programs from running on your computer that
might be found on web sites.
For more information about the Windows Security Center, click Get help about Security
Center.
Help
For more information about Windows Security Center, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type secu rity cen ter in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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CHAPTER 6: Protecting Your Computer
Security updates
To keep your computer secure, you need to keep Windows 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, Microsoft creates a
high-priority Windows update to fix the problem. You should update Windows regularly to keep
your computer secure.
To update Windows:
1
2
3
Click
(Start), Control Panel, then click Security.
Click Security Center. The Windows Security Center dialog box opens.
Click Windows Update. Windows checks the Microsoft web site to see if any updates are
available.
4
Click:
•
Install Updates to download and install updates on your computer. These updates
include security updates.
•
Install Extras to download additional Windows software for your computer.
Help
For more information about Windows Update, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type Win d ow s u p d ate in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
Scheduling automatic updates
Use the Windows Security Center to schedule automatic updates. Windows can routinely check
for the latest updates for your computer and install them automatically.
To schedule automatic updates:
1
2
3
Click
(Start), Control Panel, then click Security.
Click Security Center. The Windows Security Center dialog box opens.
Click Windows Update.
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4
Click Change Settings. The Change Settings dialog box opens.
5
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
taskbar icon. To fix the problem, click on that icon to open BigFix.
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CHAPTER 6: Protecting Your Computer
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
Changing screen settings
Tip
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 or side of your
monitor. For more information about these adjustments, see your monitor’s user guide.
Adjusting the color depth and screen area are two of the most basic display settings you may
need to change. You can also adjust settings such as the screen background and screen saver.
Changing color depth and screen resolution
Color depth and screen resolution are two of the most basic monitor settings you may need to
change to suit your needs.
Color depth is the number of colors your computer uses to display images on your monitor. Most
images look best displayed with the maximum number of colors available. If the color in your
images seems “false” or “jumpy,” especially after you have played a game or run a video-intensive
program, check the color depth setting and return it to the highest color setting, if necessary.
Screen resolution is the number of pixels (individual colored dots) your computer uses to display
images on your monitor. The higher the resolution, the more information and screen components
(such as icons and menu bars) can be displayed on the monitor.
Help
For more information about adjusting the screen, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type ad ju stin g m on itor settin gs in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
To change the color depth or screen resolution:
1
Click (Start), Control Panel, then under Appearance and Personalization, click Adjust
Screen Resolution. The Display Settings dialog box opens.
2
To change the color depth, click the Colors list, then click the color depth you want.
•
•
•
Low (8-bit) = 256 colors
Medium (16-bit) = 65,500 colors
Highest (32-bit) = 16,700,000 colors
3
4
To change the screen resolution, drag the Resolution slider to the size you prefer.
Click Apply. If the new settings do not look right, click No. If the new settings make the
screen illegible and you cannot click No, the settings return to their previous values after
several seconds.
5
Click OK, then click Yes to save your changes.
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Changing the appearance of windows and backgrounds
You can change the appearance of Windows desktop items, such as the colors of windows and
dialog boxes and the color and design of the desktop background.
To change Window colors and effects:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, then under Appearance and Personalization, click
Customize colors. The Window Color and Appearance dialog box opens.
2
3
Click one of the color choices and adjust the Color intensity slider, then click OK. Your
new color settings are applied.
For even more color adjustment options, such as color schemes, shading effects, and screen
fonts, click
(Start), Control Panel, then under Appearance and Personalization, click
Change the color scheme. Change the setting you want, then click OK.
To change the Windows desktop background:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, then under Appearance and Personalization, click
Change desktop background. The Choose a desktop background dialog box opens.
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
2
3
Click the Picture Location list, then click the location where you want to look for
background images. If the location you want is not in the list, click Browse and locate the
drive and folder.
Click the picture or color you want to use for the background, then click OK.
Selecting a screen saver
Caution
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. Flat panel displays cannot be damaged with image burn-in.
You can use a screen saver to keep others from viewing your screen while you are away from
your computer. Windows supplies a variety of screen savers that you can choose from, and many
more are available from the Internet and as commercial products.
To select a screen saver:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, Appearance and Personalization, then click Change
screen saver. The Screen Saver Settings dialog box opens.
2
3
Click the Screen saver list, then click the screen saver you want to use. An example of
the screen saver plays on the preview screen.
•
To change the settings for the screen saver, click Settings, change the settings, then
click OK.
•
•
To see a full-screen preview of the screen saver, click Preview.
To change the length of computer inactivity time that passes before the screen saver
starts, change the number of minutes in the Wait box.
Click OK. Your screen saver changes are applied.
Help
For more information about selecting a screen saver, click Start, then click
Help and Support. Type screen savers in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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Changing gadgets
Gadgets are constantly running mini-programs that are visible on your Windows desktop. They
can be moved, removed, resized, and configured according to your preference. Although you
can position them anywhere on your desktop, gadgets are usually visible on the right edge of
your screen in the Sidebar.
Gadgets can include:
•
•
•
•
•
Clocks and timers
News feeds, weather forecasts, and stock tickers
Slide shows and puzzles
Calendars and contact lists
Sticky notes
To add a gadget:
1
Click the + at the top of the Sidebar, or right-click in an empty area of the Sidebar and
click Add Gadgets. The gadget selection window opens.
2
Click the gadget you want, then drag it to the Sidebar.
Tip
To shop online for more gadgets, click Get more gadgets online.
To delete a gadget, right-click the gadget, then click Close Gadget.
To configure a gadget:
1
In the Sidebar, right-click the gadget, then click Options. The gadget’s configuration
window opens.
2
Make the changes you want, then click OK. Your changes are saved.
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
Using a gadget’s control panel
Some gadgets have built-in control panels that you can use to control their behavior.
To use a gadget’s control panel:
1
In the Sidebar, hold the mouse pointer over the gadget. The gadget’s built-in control panel
appears on the gadget. (Slideshow gadget shown)
2
Click the control you want to operate.
Configuring the gadget Sidebar
You can change the appearance and behavior of the Sidebar.
To change Sidebar properties:
1
Right-click in an empty area of the Sidebar, then click Properties. The Windows Sidebar
Properties dialog box opens.
You can change:
•
•
•
•
Whether the Sidebar starts each time Windows starts
Whether the Sidebar is always on top of other windows (always visible)
The side of the screen the sidebar appears on
The monitor that the sidebar appears on (if you have multiple monitors)
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Setting up multiple monitors
Important
The dialog boxes shown in this section are for demonstrative purposes only and
may not represent the screens on your computer.
If your computer’s video card supports additional monitors (it must have two video connections),
you can connect an additional monitor or projector to your computer.
You can use the second monitor or projector as a duplicate of the primary display, or as an
extension to roughly double the size of your Windows desktop. Use the additional desktop space
to accommodate additional windows.
To use a projector or additional monitor:
1
2
Turn off your computer.
Plug the projector or monitor cable into the secondary monitor port on your computer.
For the location of the monitor port on your computer, see the setup poster or your
Reference Guide.
3
4
Plug the projector’s or monitor’s power cord into an AC power outlet, then turn it on.
Turn on your computer. Windows recognizes the new hardware and searches for its driver.
You may need to install the driver from the disc supplied by the manufacturer or download
the driver from the manufacturer’s Web site.
5
After the driver is installed, click
(Start), Control Panel, Appearance and
Personalization, Personalization, then click Display Settings. The Display Settings dialog
box opens.
Shortcut
Right-click an empty space on the desktop, click Personalize, then click
Display Settings.
6
7
Right-click the second monitor icon (labeled 2), click Attached, then click Apply.
Adjust properties such as Screen Resolution or Color Quality if necessary.
Tip
To help identify your multiple monitors in the Display Settings dialog box,
click Identify Monitors. A large number appears on the screen of each monitor.
8
To use the second monitor or projector as a “mirror” (duplicate) of the primary monitor
(both monitors have the same content), click to deselect the check box for Extend my
Windows desktop onto this monitor.
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
9
To use the second monitor or projector as an extension of your desktop (increasing the
size of your Windows desktop), click to select the check box for Extend my Windows
desktop onto this monitor. You can click and drag the “2” monitor icon to position it the
same way the physical monitor is arranged on your desk.
10 Click OK.
Changing system sounds
You can change the sounds that play for system events, such as Windows startup and shut down,
logging on and logging off, window maximizing and minimizing, and error messages.
To change system sounds:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, then under Sound, click Change
system sounds. The Sound dialog box opens.
2
Click the Sound Scheme list, then click the sound scheme you want.
- OR -
Click an event in the Program list, then click the Sounds list and click the sound file you
want associated with the event. If you do not see the sound file in the Sounds list, click
Browse and find the file in the appropriate folder.
3
4
To test a sound you have selected, click Test.
Click OK to save your changes.
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Changing mouse settings
Help
For more information about mouse settings, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type m ouse settin gs in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
You can adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, left-hand or right-hand configuration, and
other mouse settings.
To change your mouse settings:
Shortcut
Start Ö Control Panel Ö Hardware and Sound Ö Mouse
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, then under Hardware and Sound, click Mouse. The Mouse
Properties dialog box opens.
2
3
Change the settings you want. You can:
•
•
•
•
Switch the left and right buttons
Change the double-click speed
Change the pointer appearance and speed
Change the mouse wheel actions
Click OK to save your changes.
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
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
•
If you want to create an account for someone, but you do not want that user to have full
access to your computer, be sure to make that account limited. Remember that limited
accounts may not be able to install some older programs.
•
Files created in one account are not accessible from other accounts unless the files are
stored in the Shared Documents folder. The Shared Documents folder is accessible from
all accounts on that computer and from other computers on the network.
To add, delete, or modify user accounts:
Click (Start), Control Panel, then under User Accounts and Family Safety, click Add
or remove user accounts.
1
•
•
•
To create a new account, click Create a new account, then follow the on-screen
instructions to finish the setup.
To change an account, click the account name, then click the option you want to
change.
To delete an account, click the account name, then click Delete the account and
confirm the deletion of related files. The account is deleted. (You cannot delete the
administrator account.)
Help
For more information about user accounts, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type u ser accou n ts in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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To switch between user accounts:
1
2
Save any open documents that are being worked on in your current account.
Click
(Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then click Switch User or Log Off.
•
•
Switch User opens the account selection screen but does not log off the current user,
and any programs that were running for the previous user continue to run.
Log Off logs off the current user, then opens the account selection screen.
Caution
If you click Log Off, any programs that were running may be closed, and
unsaved document changes may be lost.
3
Click the user account that you want to use.
Changing power-saving settings
Changing the power scheme
Power schemes (groups of power settings) let you change power saving options such as when
the monitor or hard drive is automatically turned off. You can select one of the defined power
schemes or create a custom power scheme.
Help
For more information about power schemes, click Start, then click Help and
Support. Type p ower sch em e or pow er m an agem en t in the Search Help box, then
press ENTER.
To change the power scheme:
Shortcut
Start Ö Control Panel Ö System and Maintenance Ö Power Options
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, then under Power Options, click
Change power-saving settings. The Select a power plan dialog box opens.
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
2
Click a power plan (default plans shown):
•
Balanced uses several energy-saving features while maintaining reasonable
performance and convenience.
•
•
Power saver maximizes energy savings but reduces performance and convenience.
High performance maximizes performance but reduces energy savings.
3
4
To change a power plan, click Change plan settings, change the settings you want, then
click Save changes.
To change advanced power settings, click Change plan settings, Change advanced
power settings.
5
Change the settings you want, then click OK.
You can change:
•
Power-down times for your hard drive, wireless network adapter, USB devices, and
processor
•
•
Power management settings for your display, processor, and expansion cards
Behavior of your computer’s power button
The Edit Play Settings dialog box opens.
6
7
Click Save changes.
To create a new power plan, on the left side of the window click Create a power plan,
then follow the on-screen instructions.
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Changing accessibility settings
Your computer can be a powerful tool, but it may be less useful to you if items on the screen
are difficult to see, or if the mouse is difficult to control. Windows has several tools that help
you use it more easily.
Using the Ease of Access Center
Use the Ease of Access Center to change several system display settings.
To use the Ease of Access Center:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, Ease of Access, then click Ease of Access Center. The
Ease of Access Center opens.
2
In the Quick access to common tools section, click one of the following options to make
some of the most common accessibility changes to Windows:
•
•
Start Magnifier provides a close-up view of the area near your mouse pointer.
Start On-Screen Keyboard displays a keyboard on the screen. You can press keys
on the on-screen keyboard by clicking them with your mouse.
•
•
Start Narrator reads on-screen text and describes graphics.
Set up High Contrast changes the Windows color scheme to use high-contrast colors.
You can also use the Ease of Access Center to:
•
•
•
•
Use the computer without a display, mouse, or keyboard
Make the computer display easier to see
Make the mouse and keyboard easier to use
Use text or visual alternatives for sounds
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CHAPTER 7: Customizing Windows
Using voice recognition
You can attach a microphone to your computer and configure Windows to create typed text from
your voice.
To set up voice recognition:
1
Click
(Start), Control Panel, Ease of Access, then click Speech Recognition Options.
The Speech Recognition Options window opens.
2
3
Click one of the following settings to start setting up speech recognition:
•
Start Speech Recognition turns speech recognition on. With an attached microphone,
you can then control your computer using voice commands.
•
Set up microphone configures your attached microphone to work correctly with
speech recognition.
•
•
Take Speech Tutorial helps you learn how to use speech recognition.
Train your computer to better understand you helps you create several voice
samples that your computer can use to better recognize the words you speak.
•
Open the Speech Reference Card lets you view and print a list of common voice
commands.
You can also click Text to Speech on the left of the window to configure your computer’s
settings for reading aloud on-screen text.
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Index
CDs
A
copying 33
cellular phone
diskette drive
accessing
shared files 59
display
help
Help and Support
documents
accounts
clipboard 10
close button
4
Internet 19
ISP 19
user 80
9
2
adding
3
icons to desktop
8
program 9, 16
3
user accounts 80
address
color
e-mail 21
changing scheme 73
creating 14
opening 14
Web 20
AU file 34
audio
playing 34
recording 33
audio CD
computers
configuring
router 54
TCP/IP protocol 54
adding tracks to library 39
editing track information 39
playing 35
drives
to Web site 20
DVD 31
AVI file 34
connections
VGA 77
identifying drive types 31
mapping network 59
recordable CD 31
sharing 57
B
BigFix 69
Blu-ray
copying
CDs and DVDs 33
playing 33
recording 33
files across network 59
broadband Internet connection
18, 48
viewing contents
9
creating
browser
9
desktop icons
Web 18, 19
8
browsing for files and folders 13
drive 31, 32
inserting 32
playing 33, 35
recording 33
C
video DVD 41
cable modem 19, 48, 50
cards
inserting memory card 30
installing memory card 30
removing memory card 30
slots 30
types of memory cards
supported 30
customizing 71
cutting
files and folders 10
DVD drive
identifying 31, 32
using 31
D
DVD/DVD-RAM/DVD-R/CD-RW
deleting files and folders 6, 11, 16
CD
drive
desktop
adding tracks to your library
39
identifying 32
adding icons
8
DVDs
adding shortcuts
8
creating audio 40
creating data 43
editing track information 39
inserting 32
playing audio 33
playing music 35
recording 33
copying 33
adjusting settings 72
changing color scheme 73
selecting screen saver 74
Dynamic Host Configuration
Protocol 54
using
6
using Start menu
DHCP 54
disconnecting from Internet 19
7
E
editing
music track information 39
CD drive
identifying 31
diskette
e-mail
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Contents
address 21
starting 63
G
checking for messages 22
sending 22
Gateway
Web address
using 18, 21
updating 64
Web site
2
Ethernet network
McAfee VirusScan 63
equipment needed 49
example 48
H
installing cards 50, 53
installing drivers 50, 53
HD-DVD
F
help
Fast Ethernet 48
faxes
canceling 27
receiving and viewing 27
sending 26
menu bar
9
Help and Support
messages
sending a Fax 23
sending from program 26
sending scanned image 27
setting up cover page
template 26
checking e-mail 22
sending e-mail 22
Microsoft
Internet Explorer 18
I
files
Windows Media Player 34
Wordpad 13
copying 10, 16
cutting 10
Internet
deleting 6, 11, 16
downloading 21
finding 12, 13
moving 10
Microsoft Certificate of
Authenticity
4
MIDI file 34
minimize button
opening
7
9
opening shared 59
pasting 10, 16
recovering 11
renaming 16
modem
dial-up 18
DSL 19, 48, 50
IP address
searching for 12, 13
sharing 57
monitor
controls 72
ISP
un-sharing 58
viewing list
9
finding
K
files and folders 12, 13
mouse
Help and Support topics
3
keyboard shortcuts 16
folders
moving
copying 10, 16
creating 10
L
files 10
label
folders 10
cutting 10
Microsoft Certificate of
MP3 file
deleting 6, 11, 16
finding 12, 13
moving 10
Authenticity
4
creating 38
LCD panel
using screen saver 74
links 19
editing track information 39
playing 34
opening
9
MP3 player
memory cards 30
MPEG file
playing 34
multimedia
pasting 10, 16
recovering 11
renaming 16
M
searching for 12, 13
sharing 57
maintenance
virus protection 63
un-sharing 58
playing audio CD 35
playing Blu-ray 33
playing DVD 33, 35
playing HD-DVDy 33
recording audio 37
mapping network drives 59
maximize button
McAfee Personal Firewall Plus 63
McAfee Privacy Service 63
viewing list
9
9
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using DVD drive 31
using Windows Media Player
33, 34
Sound Recorder
R
Start button
Start menu
6
audio file 37
MultiMediaCard 30
audio files 33
optical discs 33
music library
starting programs
7
building 39
subnet mask
music tracks
entering 54
copying 38
support
recovering files and folders
11
using
2
N
name
T
computer 53
workgroup 53
TCP/IP protocol
configuring 54
telephone
remote control
see Windows Media Center
naming
computers 53
workgroup 53
receiving and viewing faxes
12, 16
network
testing 57
using 58
restoring files and folders 11
router
sending faxes from program
26
O
online help 3, 4
S
opening
documents 14
saving
files
7
documents 14
template 26
files across network 59
folders
programs
screen
9
saver 74
7
P
pasting
files and folders 10, 16
text and graphics 16
U
in Help and Support
3
un-sharing
PDA
drives 58
memory cards 30
updating
McAfee SecurityCenter 64
playing
drives 57
audio CD 33, 35
2
audio file 34
Media Player file 34
multimedia files 34
music CD 35
user accounts
shortcuts
adding in Windows XP 80
adding to desktop
8
switching in Windows XP 80
closing programs 16
closing windows 16
copying 16
Windows Media Player file 34
using
power
Fax 23
changing schemes 81
schemes 81
deleting files and folders 16
keyboard 16
V
printer
pasting 16
VGA port 77
sharing 58
renaming files and folders 16
selecting adjacent items in
list 16
video
printing
playing 33, 34
documents 15
viewing
shared drives 58
shared folders 58
selecting items in list 16
switching between files,
folders, or programs
16
files across network 59
programs
closing 16
opening
virus
7
protecting against 63
removing 63
SmartMedia 30
software
projector
color quality 77
See programs
screen resolution 77
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W
WAV file 34
Web browser 18, 19
Web page 19
Web site 19
connecting to 20
downloading files 21
Gateway
2
window
8
close button
9
closing 9, 16
maximize button
9
menu bar
minimize button
title bar
9
9
8
Windows
clipboard 10
Product Key Code
Search utility 12
4
Windows Media Center 44
help
3
remote control 46
Windows Media Player
building music library 39
creating music files 38
creating WMA files 38
editing tack information 39
playing audio CD 35
playing audio file 34
viewing video file 34
Windows Security Center
icon
6
using 63
Windows Update 68
WMA file
creating 38
editing track information 39
playing 34
Wordpad 13
workgroup
naming 53
World Wide Web (WWW) 19
downloading files 21
X
xD 30
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MAN GW GENERIC DT USR GDE V R0 11/06
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