Gateway Personal Computer FX530XG User Manual
GATEWAY COMPUTER  
REFERENCEGUIDE  
®
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Contents  
Chapter 1: About This Reference. . . . . . . . . . . . 1  
About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2  
Accessing the online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2  
Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3  
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3  
Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer . . . . . 5  
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6  
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8  
Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 11  
Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12  
Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13  
Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . 13  
Sitting at your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14  
Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . 14  
Preparing power connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14  
Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . 14  
Checking the voltage selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15  
Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . 15  
Connecting a dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16  
Starting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16  
Waking up your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17  
Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17  
Restarting (rebooting) your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18  
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19  
Premium multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . 19  
Elite multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20  
Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22  
Using optical drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24  
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24  
Loading an optical disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24  
Identifying optical drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25  
Playing discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26  
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Contents  
Creating discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28  
Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28  
Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29  
Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29  
Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30  
Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32  
Installing a printer, scanner, or other device . . . . . . . . . . . 33  
Chapter 4: Advanced Hardware Setup. . . . . . . 35  
Setting up your CrossFire video cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36  
Setting up RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
About RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
RAID 0 for performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
RAID 1 for security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40  
RAID 5 and 10 for both: performance and security . . . 41  
Preparing your computer for RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43  
Configuring RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43  
Adding or replacing a RAID drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46  
Getting help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46  
Overclocking the processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47  
Setting up multiple monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48  
Chapter 5: Upgrading Your Computer . . . . . . . 49  
Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50  
Opening the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51  
Removing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51  
Removing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53  
Closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54  
Replacing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54  
Replacing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54  
Adding or replacing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55  
Replacing the system battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57  
Adding or replacing an optical disc drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59  
Replacing the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60  
Adding or replacing a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62  
Replacing the front fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65  
Replacing the rear fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67  
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Replacing the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69  
Replacing the heat sink and processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70  
Replacing the I/O board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72  
Adding or replacing an expansion card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74  
Replacing the system board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76  
Chapter 6: Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . 83  
Setting up a maintenance schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84  
Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85  
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86  
Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86  
Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87  
Cleaning the monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87  
Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87  
Cleaning optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88  
Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88  
Using BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89  
Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90  
Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90  
Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91  
Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92  
Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93  
Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94  
Scheduling maintenance tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96  
Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97  
Transferring files and settings with Windows Easy Transfer  
97  
Transferring files and settings manually . . . . . . . . . . . . 98  
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101  
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102  
First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102  
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103  
Add-in cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103  
Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103  
CD or DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103  
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105  
DVD drives 105  
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Contents  
Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106  
Expansion cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107  
File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107  
Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108  
Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109  
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110  
Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111  
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114  
Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114  
Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115  
Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115  
Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118  
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119  
Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119  
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119  
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120  
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120  
Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122  
Restoring your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122  
Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . 123  
Using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129  
Recovering your system to its factory condition . . . . 132  
Recovering your system using the Windows DVD . . . 133  
Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134  
Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . 134  
Telephone numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135  
Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136  
Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136  
Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137  
Appendix A: Legal Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139  
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149  
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CHAPTER1  
About This Reference  
• About this guide  
• Accessing the online User Guide  
• Gateway contact information  
• Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity  
• For more information  
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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference  
About this guide  
This guide includes information and maintenance instructions  
that are specific to your model of Gateway computer. Some  
illustrations in this guide may look different than your  
computer because hardware options and port locations may  
vary. For all other computer information, see your online User  
Guide.  
For more information  
For more information about your computer, visit Gateway’s  
Support page at www.gateway.com or the Web address  
shown on your computer’s label. The Support page also has  
links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed  
specifications.  
Accessing the online User  
Guide  
In addition to this guide, your User Guide has been included  
on your hard drive. Your User Guide is an in-depth,  
easy-to-read manual that includes information on the  
following topics:  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Help and technical support  
Using and customizing Windows and other software  
Controlling audio and video settings  
Using the Internet  
Protecting your files  
Playing and recording media  
Networking  
To access your User Guide:  
Click (Start), All Programs, then click Gateway  
Documentation.  
•
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Gateway contact information  
The label on the side of your computer contains information  
that identifies your computer model and serial number.  
Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call  
for assistance.  
Serial number  
Technical Support telephone number  
Microsoft Certificate of  
Authenticity  
The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the  
back or side of your computer includes the product key code  
for your operating system. If you ever reinstall Windows from  
the installation DVD, you will need to enter these numbers to  
activate Windows.  
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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference  
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CHAPTER2  
Checking Out Your  
Computer  
• Front  
• Back  
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Front  
Optical disc drive  
Additional drive bay  
Memory card reader  
(optional)  
Power button/  
power indicator  
Hard drive indicator  
IEEE 1394 ports  
USB ports  
Headphone jack  
Microphone jack  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Optical disc drive  
Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install  
games and programs, watch DVDs, and store  
large files onto recordable discs (depending  
on drive type). This drive may be a CD,  
recordable CD, DVD, recordable DVD, Blu-ray,  
or HD DVD drive. For more information about  
your drive, see the online User Guide.  
Memory card  
reader (optional)  
Insert a memory card from a digital camera,  
MP3 player, PDA, cellular telephone, or other  
devices into the memory card reader.  
Power  
button/power  
indicator  
Press this button to turn the power on or off.  
You can also configure the power button to  
operate in Standby/Resume mode or  
Hibernate mode. The power indicator lights  
when the computer is turned on.  
Hard drive  
indicator  
Lights when the hard drive is active.  
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Component  
Icon  
Description  
®
IEEE 1394 ports  
Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire )  
devices (such as a digital camcorder) into  
these 6-pin IEEE 1394 ports.  
USB ports  
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such  
as a USB external drive, printer, scanner,  
camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports.  
Headphone jack  
Microphone jack  
Plug powered, analog front speakers, an  
external amplifier, or headphones into this  
jack. This jack is color-coded green.  
Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is  
color-coded pink.  
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Back  
Important  
Your computer’s hardware options and port locations may vary from this  
illustration.  
Power connector  
Cover release lever  
Case thumbscrew and  
Kensington lock slot  
Security tape  
5.1 audio jacks  
Ethernet (network) jack  
IEEE 1394/FireWire™ port  
S/PDIF (optical) jack  
USB ports  
Digitalcoaxial audio  
jack  
Parallel port  
Serial port  
PS/2 keyboard port  
PS/2 mouse port  
Video card  
TV tuner card  
Expansion slot cover  
thumbscrew  
Secondary video card  
(optional)  
Telephone jack (optional)  
Modem jack (optional)  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Cover release lever  
Case thumbscrew  
Lift this lever to open the computer cover  
Remove this screw before opening the  
case.  
Kensington lock slot  
Attach a cable lock to this slot, then attach  
the cable to a solid object like a desk or  
table to prevent your computer from being  
stolen.  
Security tape  
Remove or cut this tape before opening the  
computer case.  
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Component  
Icon  
Description  
Rear speaker jack  
(black plug)  
Plug your rear right and left speakers into  
this jack.  
For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 32.  
Audio input (Line in)  
jack (blue plug)  
-OR-  
This jack is user configurable for one of the  
following:  
Stereo in: Plug an external audio input  
source (such as a stereo) into this jack so  
you can record sound on your computer  
(Default).  
Side speaker jack  
Stereo out: Plug your side left and right  
speakers into this jack.  
For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 32.  
Headphone/analog  
speakers jack (green  
plug)  
This jack is user configurable for one of the  
following:  
Headphone: Plug headphones or amplified  
speakers into this jack (Default).  
Stereo out: Plug your front left and right  
speakers into this jack.  
-OR-  
Front speakers jack  
For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 32.  
Microphone jack  
(pink plug)  
Plug a microphone into this jack.  
Center/subwoofer  
jack  
Plug your center speaker and subwoofer  
into this jack.  
For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 32.  
(orange  
plug)(optional)  
Ethernet (network)  
jack  
Plug an Ethernet network cable or a device  
(such as a DSL or cable modem for a  
broadband Internet connection) into this  
jack. For more information, see “Learning  
about the Internet” in your online User  
Guide.  
®
IEEE 1394 port  
Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire )  
devices (such as a digital camcorder) into  
this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port. For more  
information, see “Installing a printer,  
scanner, or other device” on page 33.  
Parallel port  
Plug a parallel device (such as a printer) into  
this port.  
PS/2 mouse port  
Plug a PS/2 mouse into this port.  
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Expansion slot cover  
thumbscrew  
Remove this screw and open the expansion  
slot cover to unlock the expansion cards.  
Telephone jack  
(optional)  
Plug the cord from your telephone into this  
jack.  
Power connector  
Plug the power cord into this connector.  
S/PDIF output jack  
(optional)  
Plug an optical cable from an amplifier or  
entertainment system into this jack for  
digital sound.  
USB ports  
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices  
(such as a USB Iomega™ Zip™ drive,  
printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or  
mouse) into these ports. For more  
information, see “Installing a printer,  
scanner, or other device” on page 33.  
Digital coaxial audio  
port  
Plug a single digital coaxial audio connector  
into this jack for digital audio. Provides  
digital audio output from a CD or DVD.  
Serial port  
Plug a serial device into this port. For more  
information, see “Installing a printer,  
scanner, or other device” on page 33.  
PS/2 keyboard port  
Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port.  
Plug a monitor into a port on this card.  
Video card  
TV tuner card  
Connect a video tuner or an antenna to this  
card to watch TV on your computer.  
Modem jack  
(optional)  
Plug a modem cable into this jack. For more  
information, see “Connecting a dial-up  
modem” on page 16.  
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CHAPTER3  
Setting Up and Getting  
Started  
• Working safely and comfortably  
• Preparing power connections  
• Connecting to a broadband modem or  
network  
• Connecting a dial-up modem  
• Starting your computer  
• Turning off your computer  
• Restarting (rebooting) your computer  
• Using the keyboard  
• Using the mouse  
• Using optical drives  
• Using the memory card reader  
• Adjusting the volume  
• Configuring the audio jacks  
• Installing a printer, scanner, or other device  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Working safely and  
comfortably  
Before using your computer, follow these general guidelines  
for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding  
discomfort and strain:  
•
•
Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.  
Adjust the screen so it is perpendicular to your line of  
sight, and the top of the screen is no higher than eye  
level.  
•
•
Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.  
Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.  
Top of screen is not  
higher than eye level  
Screen is perpendicular to  
your line of sight  
Hands and arms are  
parallel to the floor  
Feet are flat on the floor  
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Reducing eye strain  
Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the  
monitor screen or shine directly into your eyes.  
•
Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid  
glare on your screen and light shining directly into your  
eyes. Reduce glare by installing shades or curtains on  
windows, and by installing a glare screen filter.  
•
•
•
Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use  
your computer in a dark room.  
Set paper holders at the same height and distance as  
the monitor.  
Avoid focusing your eyes on your computer screen for  
long periods of time. Every 10 or 15 minutes, look  
around the room, and try to focus on distant objects.  
Setting up your computer desk and chair  
When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make  
sure that the desk is the appropriate height and the chair helps  
you maintain good posture.  
•
•
Select a flat surface for your computer desk.  
Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands  
and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you  
use the keyboard and touchpad. If the desk is not  
adjustable or is too tall, consider using an adjustable  
chair to control your arm’s height above the keyboard.  
•
•
Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes  
your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.  
Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly  
below the level of your elbow. This position lets your  
shoulders relax while you type.  
•
•
Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of the  
seat, or use a footrest to distribute your weight evenly  
on the chair and relieve pressure on the back of your  
thighs.  
Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower  
curve of your spine. You can use a pillow or cushion to  
provide extra back support.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Sitting at your computer  
•
Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make  
sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type.  
•
Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your  
back straight so your knees, hips, and elbows form right  
angles when you work.  
•
•
Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.  
Avoid twisting your torso or neck.  
Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive  
strain  
•
•
Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.  
Take breaks to change your position, stretch your  
muscles, and relieve your eyes.  
•
Find ways to break up the work day, and schedule a  
variety of tasks.  
Preparing power connections  
Protecting from power source problems  
Warning  
High voltages can enter your computer through both the power cord  
and the modem connection. Protect your computer by using a surge protector.  
If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector that has a modem jack.  
If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an antenna/cable TV  
jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the  
modem.  
During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming  
into your computer can increase to far above normal levels  
and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your computer  
and peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge  
protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents them  
from reaching your computer.  
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power  
to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot  
run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS,  
a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your  
work and shut down your computer normally.  
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Checking the voltage selection  
Caution  
If you set the voltage selection switch incorrectly, your system will be  
damaged. Make sure this switch is set correctly for your location before turning  
on your computer. In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal  
115 volts at 60 Hz. The power supply should always be set to this when your  
computer is operating in the United States. In other areas of the world, such  
as Europe, the utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your computer  
is operating in an environment such as this, the voltage switch should be moved  
to 230.  
The power supply, a component built into your computer,  
provides power to the system board, add-in cards, and  
peripheral devices. The power supply’s voltage selection for  
your location is typically set at the factory, but you can change  
it to match the electrical service available in your usage area  
(such as while in another country). Use the power selection  
switch on the back of your computer to set the voltage to  
115V or 230V.  
To set the voltage selection switch:  
1
2
Disconnect your computer’s power cable.  
Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the  
voltage selection switch to the correct voltage position.  
The switch is located on the back of your computer,  
near the power cable connector.  
Connecting to a broadband  
modem or network  
Important  
Your computer may be equipped with a built-in Ethernet (network) jack.  
For information about setting up a wired or wireless Ethernet network, see your  
online User Guide.  
You can connect your computer to a cable or DSL modem or  
to a wired Ethernet network.  
To connect to a broadband modem or to an Ethernet  
network:  
1
Insert one end of the network cable into the network  
jack on the back of your computer.  
2
Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable  
modem, DSL modem, or network jack.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Connecting a dial-up modem  
Warning  
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger  
telecommunications line cord.  
Your computer may have a 56K modem that you can use with  
a standard telephone line to connect to the Internet or fax  
documents.  
To connect the modem:  
1
Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem  
jack on the modem at the back of your computer.  
2
Insert the other end of the modem cable into a  
telephone wall jack. (The modem will not work with  
digital or PBX telephone lines.)  
3
If you want, you can connect a telephone to the PHONE  
jack on the modem at the back of your computer.  
Starting your computer  
To start your computer:  
1
Connect the power, network, mouse, and keyboard  
cables to your computer according to the setup poster.  
2
Press the power button on the front of your computer.  
If your computer does not turn on, check the power  
cable connections.  
Important  
Your computer has a built-in, variable-speed fan. In addition,  
your computer uses a powerful processor which produces heat and has  
its own cooling fan. Both the system fan and processor fan can run at  
different speeds at times to ensure correct system cooling. You may  
notice an increase in the fan noise when the fan is running at high speed  
and a decrease in the fan noise when it switches to normal speed.  
3
4
If you are starting your computer for the first time,  
follow the on-screen instructions to select the language  
and time zone and to create your first user account.  
Attach and turn on any USB or audio peripheral devices,  
such as printers, scanners, and speakers. If you need to  
attach a peripheral device to the parallel or serial ports,  
turn off your computer first. See the documentation  
that came with each device for its setup instructions.  
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5
To open your computer’s Start menu, click  
(Start).  
From that menu, you can run programs and search for  
files. For more information on using your computer’s  
menus, see “Using Windows” and “Customizing  
Windows” in your online User Guide.  
Waking up your computer  
Tip  
For more information about changing the power button mode, see the  
“Customizing” chapter in your online User Guide.  
When you have not used your computer for several minutes,  
it may enter a power-saving mode called Sleep. While in Sleep  
mode, the power indicator on the power button flashes.  
If your computer is in Sleep mode, move the mouse, press a  
key on the keyboard, or press the power button to “wake” it  
up. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power  
button.  
Turning off your computer  
Warning  
When you turn off your computer, certain components in the power  
supply and system board remain energized. In order to remove all electrical  
power from your computer, unplug the power cord and modem cable from  
the wall outlets. We recommend disconnecting the power cord and modem  
cable when your computer will not be used for long periods.  
Important  
If for some reason you cannot use the Shut Down option in Windows to  
turn off your computer, press and hold the power button for about five seconds,  
then release it.  
Putting your computer into Sleep mode is the easiest way to  
power down your computer. Although it does not turn your  
computer completely off, it does turn off or slow down most  
system operations to save power, and saves your desktop  
layout so the next time you restore power, the programs are  
laid out just as you left them. Waking your computer from a  
Sleep state is much faster than turning on your computer after  
it has been turned completely off.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
To put your computer to sleep:  
1
Click  
(Start), then click  
(power). The  
computer saves your session and partially shuts down  
to save power.  
2
To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard  
or press the power button. If the computer remains in  
Sleep mode, press the power button.  
To turn off your computer:  
1
Click  
(Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon,  
then click Shut Down. The computer turns off.  
2
To completely disconnect all power (such as for  
servicing internal components), also disconnect the  
power cord.  
Restarting (rebooting) your  
computer  
If your computer does not respond to keyboard or mouse  
input, you may need to restart (reboot) your computer.  
To restart your computer:  
1
Click  
(Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon,  
then click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns  
on again.  
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2
If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the  
power button until the computer turns off (about five  
seconds), then press it again to turn the computer back  
on.  
Using the keyboard  
Premium multimedia keyboard features  
The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons.  
Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which  
keyboard feature is active.  
Function keys  
Indicators  
Editing buttons  
Internet buttons  
Audio playback buttons Navigation keys  
Internet buttons  
Application key Directional keys Numeric keypad  
Windows keys  
Feature  
Icon  
Description  
Editing buttons  
Function keys  
Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste.  
Press these keys to start program actions. Each  
program uses different function keys for  
different purposes. See the program  
documentation to find out more about the  
function key actions.  
Internet buttons  
Press these buttons to launch your Internet  
home page or search, or e-mail programs.  
Audio playback  
buttons  
Press these buttons to play your audio files and  
to adjust the volume.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Feature  
Icon  
Description  
Navigation keys  
Press these keys to move the cursor to the  
beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the  
page, down the page, to the beginning of a  
document, or to the end of a document.  
Indicators  
Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or  
SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the  
corresponding key to activate the function.  
Windows keys  
Press one of these keys to open the Windows  
Start menu. These keys can also be used in  
combination with other keys to open utilities like  
F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer).  
Application key  
Press this key to access shortcut menus and help  
assistants in Windows.  
Directional keys  
Numeric keypad  
Press these keys to move the cursor up, down,  
right, or left.  
Press these keys to type numbers when the  
numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on.  
Elite multimedia keyboard features  
The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons.  
Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which  
keyboard feature is active.  
Audio playback  
Sleep button Function keys  
Application buttons  
Indicators  
buttons  
Windows keys  
Application key  
Navigation keys Numeric keypad  
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Feature  
Icon  
Description  
Sleep button  
Press this button to activate your computer’s  
Sleep (power-saving) mode.  
Function keys  
Press these keys to start program actions.  
Each program uses different function keys for  
different purposes. See the program  
documentation to find out more about the  
function key actions.  
Application buttons  
Press these buttons to launch your Internet  
home page, search for files, or launch the  
calculator program.  
Audio playback  
buttons  
Press these buttons to play your audio files  
and to adjust the volume.  
Indicators  
Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or  
SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the  
corresponding key to activate the function.  
Windows keys  
Press one of these keys to open the Windows  
Start menu. These keys can also be used in  
combination with other keys to open utilities  
like F (Find/Search), R (Run), and  
E (Computer).  
Application key  
Press this key to access shortcut menus and  
help assistants in Windows.  
Editing buttons  
Navigation keys  
Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste.  
Press these keys to move the cursor to the  
beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the  
page, down the page, to the beginning of a  
document, or to the end of a document. Press  
the arrow keys to move the cursor.  
Numeric keypad  
Press these keys to type numbers when the  
numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Using the mouse  
Scroll wheel  
Right button  
Left button  
The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on  
the computer display. This illustration shows the standard  
mouse.  
As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the display  
moves in the same direction.  
You can use the left and right buttons on the mouse to select  
objects on the display.  
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You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through  
a document. This feature is not available in all programs.  
To...  
Do this...  
Move the  
Move the mouse around. If you  
pointer on the  
computer  
display  
reach the edge of your mouse  
pad and need to move the  
mouse farther, lift the mouse  
and place it in the middle of the  
mouse pad, then continue  
moving the mouse.  
Select an object  
on the computer  
display  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Quickly press and  
release the left mouse button.  
This is called clicking.  
Start a program  
or open a file or  
folder  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Quickly press and  
release the left mouse button  
twice. This is called  
double-clicking.  
Access a  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Quickly press and  
release the right mouse button  
once. This is called  
shortcut menu  
or find more  
information  
about an object  
on the display.  
right-clicking.  
Move an object  
on the computer  
display.  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Press the left mouse  
button and hold it down. Move  
(drag) the object to the  
appropriate part of the  
computer display. Release the  
button to drop the object  
where you want it. This is called  
clicking and dragging.  
For more information about how to adjust the double-click  
speed, pointer speed, right-hand or left-hand configuration,  
and other mouse settings, see the “Customizing” chapter in  
your online User Guide. For instructions on how to clean the  
mouse, see “Cleaning the mouse” on page 87.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Using optical drives  
Features  
Your optical drive has the following basic components:  
Activity indicator  
(location varies)  
Manual eject hole  
(location varies)  
Eject button  
Loading an optical disc  
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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Identifying optical drive types  
Your computer may contain one of the following drive types.  
Look on the front of the drive for one or more of the following  
logos:  
If your optical drive has  
this logo...  
Yourdrivetype Use your drive for...  
is...  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, and accessing data.  
CD  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, accessing data, and  
creating CDs.  
CD-RW  
Installing programs, playing  
DVD/CD-RW  
audio CDs, accessing data,  
creating CDs, and playing  
DVDs.  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs, and  
accessing data.  
DVD  
Installing programs, playing  
DVD+RW  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.  
Installing programs, playing  
DVD R/RW  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and  
DVD-RW discs.  
Installing programs, playing  
Double layer  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
DVD+RW  
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.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
If your optical drive has  
this logo...  
Yourdrivetype Use your drive for...  
is...  
Installing programs, playing  
DVD-RAM/-RW  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW  
discs.  
RECORDER  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
playing Blu-ray Discs,  
Blu-ray Disc  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs,  
DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW,  
and Blu-ray discs.  
Installing programs, playing  
HD-DVD  
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.  
Playing discs  
Playing a CD  
Important  
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able  
to play these CDs on your computer.  
A standard compact disc (CD) can hold an entire album of  
digital songs and can be played on a CD player or your  
computer’s CD drive.  
Use a music program or Windows Media Player on your  
computer to:  
•
•
•
•
Play music CDs  
Create MP3 music files from your music CDs  
Edit music track information  
Use your music files to build a music library  
For more information about playing CDs, see your online User  
Guide.  
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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 your online User Guide.  
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 your online User Guide.  
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  
your online User Guide.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Creating discs  
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 your  
online User Guide.  
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 your online User Guide.  
Copying optical discs  
You can copy optical discs to make backups of your data. For  
more information, see your online User Guide.  
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  
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Memory card types  
The memory card reader supports several memory card types.  
To determine which types are supported by your card reader  
and the slots to use for each type of card, 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
Insert the memory card into the appropriate memory  
card slot.  
2
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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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Adjusting the volume  
You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls or the  
Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of  
specific sound devices in your computer.  
To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls:  
•
If you are using external speakers, turn the knob on the  
front of the speakers.  
-OR-  
Use the mute and volume control buttons on the  
keyboard. For more information, see “Using the  
keyboard” on page 19.  
To adjust the volume from Windows:  
1
Click  
(Volume) on the taskbar. The volume control  
slider opens.  
2
3
Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and  
down to decrease volume.  
To mute the volume, click (Mute). To restore volume,  
click it again.  
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4
To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The Volume  
Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag  
sliders for individual devices.  
Tip  
Adjust the Windows Sounds slider to change system sounds  
volume independently of general volume (such as the volume used for  
music and game sounds).  
5
Click X in the top-right corner of the window to close it.  
Help  
For more information about adjusting the volume, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type ad ju stin g volum e in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Configuring the audio jacks  
If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are  
universal jacks. This means that they can be used for more  
than one purpose. For example, the blue jack on the computer  
can be a stereo in jack or a stereo out jack. To use the audio  
jacks for something other than the default audio device, you  
need to configure the audio jacks.  
To configure the audio jacks:  
Shortcut  
Start Ö Control Panel Ö Hardware and Sound Ö Advanced  
1
2
3
Connect your audio device(s) to the computer audio  
jack(s).  
Click  
(Start), then click Control Panel. The Control  
Panel window opens.  
Click Hardware and Sound, Sound, the Playback tab,  
then click Configure.  
-OR-  
If your computer has the Realtek Sound Effect Manager  
installed, double-click the Sound Effect Manager  
icon  
on the taskbar. The Realtek dialog box opens.  
4
Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the audio  
jacks for your speaker setup.  
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Installing a printer, scanner, or  
other device  
Important  
Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the  
device documentation and installation instructions.  
Your computer has one or more of the following ports:  
IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire®), Universal Serial Bus  
(USB), serial, and parallel. You use these ports to connect  
peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital  
cameras to your computer. For more information about port  
locations, see “Checking Out Your Computer” on page 5.  
IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and  
hot-swapping, which means that your computer will usually  
recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the  
appropriate port. When you use an IEEE 1394 or USB device  
for the first time, your computer will prompt you to install any  
software the device needs. After doing this, you can  
disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.  
Help  
For more information about installing peripheral devices, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type in stallin g devices in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
Parallel and serial port devices are not plug-and-play. See the  
device documentation for detailed information and  
installation instructions.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
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CHAPTER4  
Advanced Hardware Setup  
• Setting up your CrossFire video cards  
• Setting up RAID  
• Overclocking the processor  
• Setting up multiple monitors  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
Setting up your CrossFire video  
cards  
If your computer came with two CrossFire™ video cards  
installed, they must be connected correctly to work.  
To connect your CrossFire video cards:  
1
Connect the CrossFire cable’s VHDCI plug to the VHDCI  
port on the upper (“primary”) of the two Crossfire cards.  
Make sure that the VHDCI plug is oriented so that the  
shorter of the two cables branching away from the plug  
is closest to the card’s DVI port.  
VHDCI port  
(“primary”)  
DVI port  
(“secondary”)  
2
3
Use a flat-bladed screwdriver to secure the  
thumbscrews on the VHDCI plug to the graphics card.  
Connect the shorter of the two DVI cables (the cables  
branch away from the VHDCI plug) to the second  
CrossFire card (“secondary,” the one with two DVI  
ports).  
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4
If your monitor has a DVI connection, connect your  
monitor’s DVI cable to the longer of the two DVI cables.  
- OR -  
If your monitor has only a VGA connection, connect the  
DVI-to-VGA adapter to the longer of the two DVI cables,  
then connect your monitor’s VGA cable to the adapter.  
DVI connector  
Help  
For the latest information on setting up your CrossFire video  
cards, see www.ati.com/crossfire. For help on topics not covered here,  
see the ATI Catalyst Control Center’s online help.  
Configuring CrossFire  
CrossFire graphics cards let you divide graphics tasks between  
two cards, then send the combined signals to a single monitor.  
Graphics tasks can be shared in several ways, and each has  
its own advantages, depending on the program you are  
running and the type of monitor you have.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
To configure your CrossFire video cards:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, ATI Catalyst Control  
Center, then click ATI Catalyst Control Center. The  
Control Center opens.  
2
Change the settings you want, then click OK. For more  
information, see the program’s online help.  
Connecting multiple displays to your CrossFire  
video cards  
When CrossFire is disabled and the interconnect cable is not  
attached (when both cards are acting as standard video  
cards), you can attach up to four displays to the video cards.  
To use multiple displays on the CrossFire video cards:  
1
Turn off your computer, then connect the displays to  
the appropriate ports on your video cards.  
2
3
Turn on your computer.  
Click  
(Start), All Programs, ATI Catalyst Control  
Center, then click ATI Catalyst Control Center. The  
Control Center opens.  
4
5
Click View to switch to Advanced View.  
Click Disable CrossFire to disable Crossfire and enable  
multiple monitor support, then click Apply. All display  
devices are enabled.  
6
On the tree menu to the left, click Displays Manager.  
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7
8
Right-click the number 2 icon in the box to the right,  
then click Enable.  
Repeat Step 7 for each additional connected monitor.  
Setting up RAID  
About RAID  
RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive/ Independent Disks)  
lets your computer use multiple hard drives more efficiently.  
Your computer supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10.  
RAID 0 for performance  
RAID 0 lets your computer see multiple hard drives as a single  
drive. This type of RAID can increase file access speeds, which  
is important if you work with video editing, sound editing, and  
high-performance games. RAID 0 is also an affordable way to  
increase your total file storage capacity.  
How it increases performance  
The more drives you have in your RAID 0 array, the faster the  
potential drive reading performance. All hard drives have  
limitations on how fast they can read and write files. If half  
a file is stored on one RAID 0 drive and the other half on  
another RAID 0 drive, each drive only has to read half of the  
file. So, the entire file is accessed by the computer up to twice  
as fast (using a two-drive RAID 0 array). In a three-drive RAID 0  
array, if the file is evenly distributed among the drives, each  
drive must read only a third of the file, and so on. If the entire  
file happens to be stored on only one of the drives, the file  
is accessed at the same speed as if it were on a standard hard  
drive setup. Dividing up files between multiple hard drives like  
this is called striping.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
In the graphic below, each letter represents a unique block  
of data, and each column represents a separate hard drive.  
RAID 0  
A
C
E
B
D
F
How it makes file storage cheaper  
Because RAID 0 lets your computer see multiple hard drives  
as a single drive, you can install several lower capacity (less  
expensive) drives and have the same single-drive storage  
simplicity and capacity as a larger, more expensive hard drive.  
Drawbacks  
Unfortunately, RAID 0 lets multiple drives behave as one in  
another way. If part of the array fails (such as a hard drive  
crashing), the entire array fails. Because the drives are treated  
like a single drive, parts of files (including operating system  
files) can be spread across several drives, leaving the  
computer with only file fragments if one drive fails. Regular  
and frequent backups are critical.  
Another drawback is that RAID 0 treats each hard drive as if  
it has the storage capacity of the smallest drive in the array.  
So if you have three drives (300 GB, 250 GB, and 200 GB) in  
a RAID 0 array, your computer only recognizes 600 GB total  
capacity.  
RAID 1 for security  
RAID 1 maintains a complete copy of all files on each physical  
hard drive in the array. Maintaining simultaneous, complete  
copies of files across multiple hard drives is called mirroring.  
If a drive fails, the mirrored drive takes over and acts as the  
primary drive.  
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In the graphic below, each letter represents a unique block  
of data, and each column represents a separate hard drive.  
RAID 1  
A
B
C
A
B
C
File reading performance (seek time) is increased using the  
same methods that RAID 0 uses, although writing speed is the  
same as if writing to a single hard drive.  
Drawback  
RAID 1 treats the entire array as a single drive with the storage  
capacity of the smallest physical drive in the array. So if you  
have two drives (300 GB and 250 GB) in a RAID 1 array, your  
computer only recognizes a single drive with 250 GB total  
capacity.  
RAID 5 and 10 for both: performance and  
security  
Understanding RAID 5  
RAID 5 uses striping (at the file level) with on-the-fly error  
correction across all drives. Because of this error correction,  
small file read/write errors can be quickly and automatically  
fixed without a significant drop in system performance.  
RAID 5 offers good performance and data redundancy. This  
array preserves your files if a drive fails.  
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information  
(error-checking information) across multiple drives. Striping  
across drives improves overall performance, and the parity  
information provides data protection. Because of the  
error-correction capabilities, if a drive fails, the data can be  
quickly and automatically fixed.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
In the graphic below, each letter represents a unique block  
of data, and the number next to each number represents  
which copy of the data files are stored. The “P” next to a letter  
represents parity (error-checking) information, and each  
column represents a separate hard drive.  
RAID 5  
A1  
B1  
CP  
A2  
BP  
C1  
AP  
B2  
C2  
Understanding RAID 10  
RAID 10 (also called RAID 1+0 or RAID 1&0) contains sets of  
RAID 1 mirrors acting as drives within a RAID 0 striping array.  
With this setup, the array could survive one drive failure in  
each mirror array.  
In the graphic below, each letter represents a unique block  
of data, and each column represents a separate hard drive.  
RAID 0  
RAID 1  
RAID 1  
A
C
E
A
C
E
B
D
F
B
D
F
Drawback  
A RAID 5 array is treated as one drive with the capacity of all  
but one of the drives added together.  
RAID 10 treats the entire array as a single drive with twice the  
storage capacity of the smallest drive. So if you have four  
drives (350 GB, 300 GB, 250 GB, and 200 GB) in a RAID 10  
array, your computer recognizes a single drive with 400 GB  
total capacity.  
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Preparing your computer for RAID  
Setting up RAID on your computer can involve two major  
steps, depending on how your computer has been configured.  
To prepare your computer for RAID:  
1
Configure the RAID arrays. See the Array Manager User  
Guide, or “Configuring RAID” on page 43.  
2
Install the operating system.  
Configuring RAID  
Enabling RAID  
If you ordered your computer with a RAID configuration from  
the factory, RAID is already enabled, and you can skip this  
procedure. However, if your computer came without a RAID  
configuration and you set up RAID yourself, you must enable  
RAID before your computer can use it.  
To enable RAID on your computer:  
1
2
Start (or restart) your computer.  
As soon as your computer turns on and the Gateway  
logo appears on the screen, press F2. The BIOS Setup  
utility opens.  
3
Select the Advanced menu, then select Drive  
Configuration.  
4
5
6
Change the ATA/IDE Mode to Enhanced.  
Change the SATA mode to RAID.  
Press F10, then type Y to exit BIOS saving changes.  
Now that RAID is enabled, you can access the RAID  
setup.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
Creating a RAID volume  
Because RAID can be configured so many ways, this procedure  
covers only the basics.  
To configure RAID:  
1
Start (or restart) your computer. During startup, the  
RAID option screen appears. (Number and specifications  
of your drives may vary from the example.)  
2
3
While the RAID option screen is open, press CTRL+i. The  
Matrix Storage Manager opens.  
Highlight 1. Create RAID Volume, then press ENTER.  
The Create Volume menu opens.  
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4
Change the following settings:  
• Name—Type a volume name (up to 16 characters)  
or use the default name, then press ENTER.  
• RAID Level—Press ↑ or ↓ to select the RAID level,  
then press ENTER.  
• Select Disks—Press ↑ or ↓ to highlight drives, press  
the spacebar to select (mark with a green triangle)  
each drive to use in the array, then press ENTER. You  
must select a minimum of two drives.  
• Strip Size—If you have selected RAID 0, RAID 5, or  
RAID 10, select the strip (stripe) value for the array,  
then press ENTER. Defaults: 218 KB for RAID 0 and  
RAID 10, 64 KB for RAID 5. We recommend accepting  
the default strip value.  
• Capacity—Type the volume (virtual hard drive)  
capacity, or use the default capacity, then press  
ENTER. We recommend using the default value (the  
maximum capacity with the drives you selected).  
5
6
7
Highlight Create Volume, then press ENTER. A warning  
appears.  
Type Y. The RAID volume is created and the Main menu  
opens.  
Highlight 4. Exit, then press Enter. The Matrix Storage  
Manager closes, and your computer restarts.  
Deleting a RAID volume  
Deleting a RAID volume deletes all files on that volume,  
including operating system files.  
To delete a RAID volume:  
1
Start (or restart) your computer. During startup, the  
RAID option screen appears.  
2
While the RAID option screen is open, press CTRL+i. The  
Matrix Storage Manager opens.  
Caution  
If your computer has the operating system installed on a RAID,  
deleting the RAID will remove the operating system, and you will not  
be able to start your computer.  
3
Highlight 2. Delete RAID Volume, then press ENTER. The  
Delete Volume menu opens.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
4
5
Press ↑ or ↓ to highlight the RAID volume you want to  
delete, then press DELETE. A warning message appears.  
Type Y to confirm volume deletion.  
Resetting drives to non-RAID status  
To troubleshoot or repair incompatible RAID configurations,  
failed RAID volumes, or failed drives within a RAID volume,  
you can reset (remove from the RAID) the drives until the  
problems can be resolved.  
To reset drives to non-RAID status:  
1
2
3
4
Start (or restart) your computer. During startup, the  
RAID option screen appears.  
While the RAID option screen is open, press CTRL+i. The  
Matrix Storage Manager opens.  
Highlight 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID, then press  
ENTER. The Reset RAID Data menu opens.  
Press ↑ or ↓ to highlight each of the drives you want  
to reset, press the spacebar to select (mark with a green  
triangle) each drive you want to reset, then press ENTER.  
A warning message appears.  
5
Type Y to confirm the drive reset.  
Adding or replacing a RAID drive  
If your computer supports hot swapping (adding or replacing  
a drive without turning off the computer), you can replace a  
failed RAID drive with a working drive that is the same size  
or larger than the other array drives. When you add or replace  
a drive in an array, the array begins rebuilding the drive.  
To replace a failed RAID drive:  
•
Insert the new drive in the same drive slot as the failed  
drive. Your new drive acts as a “hot spare” for the array.  
Getting help  
For more information on RAID concepts, configuration, and  
maintenance, search for RAID FAQ information on the  
Gateway Technical Support Web site (www.gateway.com) and  
the Intel Support & Downloads Web site (support.intel.com).  
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Overclocking the processor  
If your computer comes with an Extreme Edition CPU, the CPU  
is “unlocked,” which means its clock speed (operating speed)  
can be increased (overclocked) beyond the default processor  
speed. Overclocking may result in system instability.  
To change the clock speed of your processor:  
1
2
Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord.  
Place your computer on its side with the side accesss  
panel facing up.  
3
4
Follow the anti-static precautions in “Preventing static  
electricity discharge” on page 50.  
Open the side panel and locate the jumper labeled J3C2  
BIOS Config on the system board.  
J3C2 BIOS Config  
jumper  
J2B3 jumper  
(
do not adjust  
)
5
Remove the jumper from its normal position (bridging  
pins 1-2), then place it in the maintenance boot position  
(bridging pins 2-3).  
6
7
8
Reconnect the power cord.  
Turn on your computer. The BIOS Setup utility opens.  
Press the arrow keys to select the Performance tab.  
Press the arrow keys to highlight Set Processor  
Multiplier, then press ENTER.  
9
Press the - (minus) or + (plus) key repeatedly to adjust  
the multiplier, then press ENTER.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
10 Press F10 to exit BIOS, then press Y to accept the  
changes. The screen displays the message “Turn off  
power and reinstall the jumper in Normal mode  
position.”  
11 Turn off the computer.  
12 Disconnect the power cord and follow all anti-static  
precautions.  
13 Return the jumper to the Normal position (bridging  
pins 1-2).  
14 Close the computer case.  
15 Reconnect the power cord.  
16 Turn the computer on. If the jumper is in the correct  
position and the multiplier is low enough, your  
computer should start normally.  
Setting up multiple monitors  
To set up multiple monitors, see the “Customizing” chapter in  
your online User Guide.  
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CHAPTER5  
Upgrading Your Computer  
• Preventing static electricity discharge  
• Opening and closing the case  
• Adding or replacing memory  
• Replacing the system battery  
• Adding or replacing an optical disc drive  
• Replacing the memory card reader  
• Adding or replacing a hard drive  
• Replacing the front fan  
• Replacing the rear fan  
• Replacing the power supply  
• Replacing the heat sink and processor  
• Replacing the I/O board  
• Adding or replacing an expansion card  
• Replacing the system board  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
Preventing static electricity  
discharge  
Warning  
To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts,  
turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network  
cables before opening the case.  
To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes  
of the power supply.  
The components inside your computer are extremely sensitive  
to static electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge  
(ESD).  
Before opening the computer case, follow these guidelines:  
•
Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most  
electronics stores) and attach it to a bare metal part of  
your computer.  
•
•
•
Turn off your computer.  
Touch a bare metal surface on the back of the computer.  
Unplug the power cord and the modem and network  
cables.  
Caution  
ESD can permanently damage electrostatic discharge-sensitive  
components in your computer. Prevent ESD damage by following ESD guidelines  
every time you open the computer case.  
Before working with computer components, follow these  
guidelines:  
•
Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors,  
plastic, and packing foam.  
•
Remove components from their antistatic bags only  
when you are ready to use them. Do not lay  
components on the outside of antistatic bags because  
only the inside of the bags provide electrostatic  
protection.  
•
Always hold expansion cards by their edges or their  
metal mounting brackets. Avoid touching the edge  
connectors and components on the cards. Never slide  
expansion cards or components over any surface.  
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Opening the case  
Your computer case provides easy access to internal  
components.  
Removing the side panel  
Warning  
To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts,  
turn off your computer, then unplug the power cord and modem cable before  
opening the case.  
To remove the side panel:  
1
Follow the instructions in “Preventing static electricity  
discharge” on page 50.  
2
Shut down your computer, then disconnect the power  
cord and modem, network, and all peripheral device  
cables.  
3
4
5
Press the power button for ten seconds to drain any  
residual power from your computer.  
Remove the security tape on the rear edge of the side  
panel.  
Remove the thumbscrew on the side panel cover. For  
the location of the thumbscrew, see “Back” on page 8.  
Important  
Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary  
from these illustrations.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
6
Lift the cover release lever, then swing the side panel  
away from the computer.  
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Removing the front bezel  
To remove the front bezel:  
•
Push on the three spring tabs, grasp the right side of  
the front bezel, then pull the bezel out and away from  
the case.  
Spring tabs  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
Closing the case  
Replacing the front bezel  
To replace the front bezel:  
1
Insert the tabs on the left side of the bezel into the slots  
in the left side of the computer.  
Tabs and slots  
2
3
Swing the right side of the bezel in so the tabs on the  
right side of the bezel go into the slots on the right side  
of the computer.  
Press the right side of the bezel firmly until it snaps into  
place.  
Replacing the side panel  
To replace the side panel:  
1
Make sure that all of the internal cables are arranged  
inside the computer so they will not be pinched when  
you close the computer.  
Important  
Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary  
from this illustration.  
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2
Insert the bottom edge of the side panel into the inside  
bottom edge of the computer, then swing the side panel  
in toward the top of the computer to secure it into  
place.  
3
4
Replace the side panel thumbscrew.  
Reconnect the cables and power cord.  
Adding or replacing memory  
When you upgrade the computer memory, make sure that you  
install the correct type of memory module for your computer.  
Your computer uses DIMM memory.  
To install or replace DIMM memory:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
3
Find the memory module banks on your system board.  
Channel B slot 1  
Channel B slot 0  
Channel A slot 1  
Channel A slot 0  
4
If you are removing a DIMM from the memory module  
bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides  
of the memory module and remove it.  
- OR -  
If you are adding a DIMM to an empty memory module  
bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides  
of the memory module bank. Make sure that you install  
modules of the same type into both slots of a memory  
channel (bank).  
5
6
Align the notches on the new DIMM with the notches  
on the memory module bank, then press the module  
firmly into the bank. The tabs on the sides of the  
memory module should secure the memory module  
automatically. When the module is secure, you hear a  
click.  
Return your computer to its upright position.  
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7
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
8
9
Reconnect the cables and the power cord.  
Turn on your computer. Windows starts and the  
Windows desktop appears.  
10 Click  
(Start), right-click Computer, then click  
Properties. The amount of memory in your computer  
is displayed.  
Replacing the system battery  
Warning  
Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with  
the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of  
used batteries according to local hazardous materials regulations.  
If the computer clock does not keep time or the settings in  
the BIOS Setup utility are not saved when you turn off your  
computer, replace the system battery. Use a battery of the  
same size and voltage as the original battery that was in your  
computer.  
To replace the battery:  
1
2
Restart your computer.  
During the restart, press and hold the F1 key. The main  
menu of the BIOS Setup utility opens.  
3
Write down all the values in the menus and submenus,  
then exit from the utility.  
4
5
Shut down your computer.  
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
6
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
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7
Locate the old battery on the system board and note  
its orientation. You will need to install the new battery  
the same way.  
Important  
Your computer’s battery location may vary from the illustration  
below.  
Battery  
8
9
Push the battery release tab. The battery pops out of  
the socket.  
Make sure that the positive (+) side of the new battery  
is facing up, then press the battery into the socket until  
it snaps into place.  
10 Return your computer to its upright position.  
11 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
12 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
13 Turn on your computer.  
14 Open the BIOS Setup utility.  
15 In the BIOS Setup utility, restore any settings that you  
wrote down in Step 3.  
16 Save all your settings and exit the BIOS Setup utility.  
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Adding or replacing an optical  
disc drive  
To add or replace an optical disc drive:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 53.  
Important  
The color and shape of your replacement drive's front cover may  
vary from your original drive.  
3
4
If you are installing a new drive, slide the drive release  
latch toward the back of the computer, then go to  
Step 7.  
- OR -  
If you are replacing an existing drive, disconnect the  
cables from the drive, noting their locations and  
orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new drive. (CD/DVD drive shown.)  
Remove the drive thumbscrew from the CD or DVD  
drive.  
Drive thumbscrew  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
5
Slide the drive release latch toward the back of the  
computer to release the drive.  
6
7
Slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay.  
If you are replacing a drive, note any jumper settings  
on the old drive and set the jumpers on the new drive  
to be the same. If you are installing a new drive, follow  
the manufacturer’s instructions.  
8
Slide the new drive into the drive bay, line up the  
thumbscrew hole on the drive bay with the screw hole  
on the drive, then slide the drive release latch toward  
the front of the computer to lock the drive into place.  
You do not need to replace the thumbscrew because it  
was originally installed for shipping purposes.  
9
Connect the drive cables using your notes from Step 3.  
If you are installing a new drive, follow the  
manufacturer’s instructions.  
10 Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the front bezel” on page 54.  
11 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
Replacing the memory card  
reader  
To replace the memory card reader:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 53.  
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3
4
Disconnect the memory card reader cables, noting their  
locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables  
after you install the new memory card reader.)  
Remove the thumbscrew holding the card reader in the  
drive bay.  
Thumbscrew  
5
Slide the drive release latch back to release the card  
reader, then slide the card reader out of the case.  
6
Slide the new card reader into the bay from the front  
of the case, then slide the drive release latch forward  
to lock the drive into place. You do not need to replace  
the thumbscrew because it was originally installed for  
shipping purposes.  
Important  
The color and shape of your replacement reader's front cover  
may vary from your original reader.  
7
8
9
Connect the new card reader cables, using your notes  
from Step 3.  
Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the front bezel” on page 54.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
Adding or replacing a  
hard drive  
To add or replace a hard drive:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
If you are adding a new drive, slide the drive release  
latch toward you, then go to Step 5.  
- OR -  
If you are replacing an existing drive, go to the next  
step.  
3
Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and  
orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new drive.)  
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4
Remove the hard drive by sliding it out of the drive bay.  
5
Note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the  
jumper on the new drive to be the same. If you are  
installing a new drive, follow the manufacturer’s  
instructions.  
Jumper  
6
Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then secure it in  
the drive bay by sliding the drive release latch in toward  
the computer.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
7
If you are replacing a drive, reconnect the drive cables  
using your notes from Step 3. If you are installing a new  
drive, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for  
connecting it to the system board.  
You can also refer to the following figure:  
SATA 0 port  
SATA 1 port  
SATA 2 port  
SATA 3 port  
8
9
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
10 Turn on your computer.  
11 If you installed a new drive, format and partition the  
drive according to the manufacturer’s instructions  
(available on the manufacturer’s Web site).  
12 Install Windows using the operating system DVD that  
came with your computer. For more information on  
restoring your system, see “Recovering your system”  
on page 122.  
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Replacing the front fan  
To replace the front fan:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
Remove the fan cover by squeezing the top (1) and  
bottom (1), then pulling the cover (2) out.  
1
2
1
3
Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. The  
location of the fan connection may vary, so trace the  
fan cable from the fan to the system board.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
4
Remove the fan mount by pressing in on the flat area (1)  
near the front, then rotating the fan mount (2) back.  
2
1
5
6
Slide the old fan out of the fan mount.  
Slide the new fan into the fan mount.  
Caution  
Be careful not to catch the wires connecting the power button  
to the system board when rotating the fan mount. A notch has been  
provided for routing these wires.  
7
Insert the tabs on the rear of the fan mount into the  
slots provided, then rotate the mount into place. The  
mount should lock into place.  
8
9
Reconnect the fan cable to the system board.  
Replace the fan cover.  
10 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
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Replacing the rear fan  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the rear fan.  
To replace the rear fan:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. The  
location of the fan connection may vary, so trace the  
fan cable from the fan to the system board.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
3
Remove the four screws that secure the fan to the inside  
back of the computer, then remove the fan from inside  
the computer. Note the orientation of the fan and install  
the new fan the same way.  
Screws  
4
Insert the new fan into the computer and line it up with  
the screw holes on the back of the computer, then  
replace the screws that secure it to the back of the  
computer.  
5
6
Reconnect the fan cable to the system board.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
7
8
Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
Turn on your computer.  
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Replacing the power supply  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the power supply.  
To replace the power supply:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
Disconnect the power supply cables from all  
components (such as hard drives, CD or DVD drives, and  
the system board), noting their locations and  
orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new power supply.)  
3
Remove the three screws that secure the power supply  
to the computer.  
Screws  
4
5
6
7
Slide the power supply away from the back of the  
computer, then lift up.  
Install the new power supply into the case, then install  
the three screws to secure the power supply to the case.  
Reconnect the power supply cables using your notes  
from Step 2.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
Replacing the heat sink and  
processor  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the heat sink.  
To replace the heat sink and processor:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
3
Remove the fan cover by squeezing the top (1) and  
bottom (1), then pulling the cover (2) out.  
1
2
1
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4
Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the  
system board, then remove the heat sink. (The screws  
cannot be completely removed.)  
Caution  
The heat sink has Thermal Interface Material (TIM) located on the  
bottom of it. Use caution when you remove the old heat sink or unpack  
the new heat sink so you do not damage the TIM.  
Screws  
5
Release the processor by pushing down on the lever,  
then lifting the lever completely up.  
6
7
Remove the processor from the system board.  
Install the new processor onto the system board making  
sure that Pin 1 on the processor (indicated by the  
silk-screened arrow on the corner of the processor)  
aligns with Pin 1 on the processor socket (indicated by  
the absence of a pin hole in the processor socket), then  
return the lever to its locked position.  
8
Place the heat sink on the system board, then tighten  
the screws that secure it to the system board.  
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9
Replace the fan cover.  
10 Return your computer to its upright position.  
11 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
Replacing the I/O board  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the I/O board.  
To replace the front I/O board:  
1
2
3
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 53.  
Remove the screw that secures the front I/O assembly  
to the computer, then remove the I/O assembly.  
Screw  
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4
Remove the screw that secures the front I/O panel  
board to the computer, then remove the I/O panel  
board by pushing it toward the back of the computer.  
Screw  
5
6
7
8
9
Disconnect the cable from the old I/O panel board and  
connect it to the new I/O panel board.  
Insert the new I/O panel board into the computer, then  
replace the screw.  
Place the front I/O assembly onto the computer, then  
replace the screw.  
Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the front bezel” on page 54.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
Adding or replacing an  
expansion card  
To add or replace an expansion card:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
Important  
Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary  
from the illustrations below.  
2
Loosen the thumbscrew on the expansion card cover.  
3
Open the expansion card cover.  
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4
To remove the PCIx card support brackets, slide them  
toward the back of the case (1) until they slip free, then  
pull the front of the brackets away from the  
computer (2) and remove them.  
5
6
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
If you are replacing a card, disconnect any cables that  
are attached to the card, noting their locations and  
orientation. (You may have to reconnect the cables after  
you install the new card.)  
7
Remove the old expansion card (if necessary). You can  
slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to loosen it, but do  
not bend the card sideways.  
To remove a card (such as a video card) from the PCI  
Express slot, press the card release lever before trying  
to remove the card.  
Caution  
Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion  
card. Touching the contacts can cause electrostatic damage to the card.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
8
Install the new card into the expansion slot. You can  
slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to help insert the  
card, but do not bend the card sideways.  
Refer to the following illustration for help:  
PCIe×16  
PCI  
PCI  
PCIe×16  
PCI  
9
Tighten the thumbscrew on the expansion card cover.  
10 Reconnect the expansion card cables (if any) using your  
notes from Step 6, or, if adding a new card, follow the  
manufacturers instructions.  
11 Return your computer to its upright position.  
12 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
Replacing the system board  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the system board.  
To replace the system board:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 51.  
2
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
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3
4
Disconnect any cables that are attached to any  
expansion cards, noting their locations and orientation.  
(You will reconnect the cables after you install the cards  
on the new board.)  
Remove the expansion cards by following the  
instructions in “Adding or replacing an expansion card”  
on page 74. You can slightly seesaw a card end-to-end  
to loosen it, but do not bend a card sideways.  
5
Remove the fan cover by squeezing the top (1) and  
bottom (1), then pulling the cover (2) out.  
1
2
1
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
6
Find the memory module banks on your system board.  
7
8
Gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the  
memory modules, then remove them.  
Caution  
The heat sink has Thermal Interface Material (TIM) located on the  
bottom of it. Use caution when you remove the old heat sink so you  
do not damage the TIM.  
Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the  
system board, then remove the heat sink. (These screws  
cannot be completely removed.)  
Screws  
9
Disconnect the power and data cables from the system  
board, noting their locations and orientation. (You will  
reconnect the cables after you install the new board.)  
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10 Remove the seven system board screws.  
Screws  
Screws  
11 Lift the system board up and out of the case.  
12 Align the new system board on the standoffs and secure  
it into the computer case with the screws.  
13 If your replacement system board does not include a  
processor, go to Step 14.  
-OR-  
If your replacement system board includes a processor,  
go to Step 17.  
14 Release the processor from the old system board by  
pushing down on the lever, then lifting the lever  
completely up.  
15 Remove the processor from the old system board.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
16 Install the processor onto the new system board making  
sure that Pin 1 on the processor (indicated by the  
silk-screened arrow on the corner of the processor)  
aligns with Pin 1 on the processor socket (indicated by  
the absence of a pin hole in the processor socket), then  
return the lever to its locked position.  
17 Connect the power and data cables using your notes  
from Step 9. You can also refer to the following  
illustration:  
Rear fan  
Front panel audio  
CPU fan  
12V power  
IDE data  
Intrusion  
2×12 power  
Auxiliary power for  
PCI Express  
Not used  
Front fan  
graphics  
Front panel  
18 Place the heat sink over the processor, then tighten the  
screws that secure it to the system board.  
19 Align the notches on the memory modules with the  
notches on the memory module banks and press the  
modules firmly into the banks. The tabs on the sides of  
the memory modules should secure the memory  
modules automatically. When a module is secure, you  
hear a click.  
Caution  
Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion  
card. Touching the contacts can cause electrostatic damage to the card.  
20 Install the expansion cards into the expansion slots. You  
can slightly seesaw a card end-to-end to help insert the  
card, but do not bend the card sideways.  
21 Reconnect the expansion card cables using your notes  
from Step 3.  
22 Install the fan cover.  
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23 Return your computer to its upright position.  
24 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 54.  
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CHAPTER6  
Maintaining Your  
Computer  
• Setting up a maintenance schedule  
• Caring for your computer  
• Cleaning your computer  
• Updating Windows  
• Using BigFix  
• Managing hard drive space  
• Scheduling maintenance tasks  
• Moving from your old computer  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
Setting up a maintenance  
schedule  
Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance  
schedule.  
Maintenance task  
Weekly Monthly  
When  
needed  
Check for viruses  
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Run Windows Update  
Manage hard drive space  
Clean up hard drives  
Scan hard drive for errors  
Defragment hard drive  
Back up files  
X
X
X
X
X
Clean computer case and  
peripheral devices  
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Caring for your computer  
To extend the life of your computer:  
•
Be careful not to bump or drop your computer, and do  
not put any objects on top of it. The case, although  
strong, is not made to support extra weight.  
•
•
•
When transporting your computer, we recommend that  
you put it in the original packaging materials.  
Keep your computer away from magnetic fields.  
Magnetic fields can erase data on hard drives.  
Never turn off your computer when the drive indicator  
is on because data on the hard drive could be lost or  
corrupted.  
•
Avoid subjecting your computer to extreme  
temperature changes. The case can become brittle and  
easy to break in cold temperatures and can melt or  
warp in high temperatures. Damage due to either  
extreme is not covered by your warranty. As a general  
rule, your computer is safest at temperatures that are  
comfortable for you.  
•
Keep all liquids away from your computer. When spilled  
onto computer components, almost any liquid can  
result in expensive repairs that are not covered under  
a standard warranty.  
•
•
Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt  
can clog the internal mechanisms and can lead to  
permanent damage to the computer.  
Do not block the ventilation fan slots. If these slots are  
blocked, your computer may overheat, resulting in  
unexpected shutdown or permanent damage to the  
computer.  
•
When storing your computer for an extended period of  
time, unplug AC power.  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
Cleaning your computer  
Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust  
helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may  
want to gather these items and put together a computer  
cleaning kit:  
•
•
A soft, lint-free cloth  
An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like  
extension  
•
•
Cotton swabs  
An optical disc drive cleaning kit  
Cleaning the exterior  
Warning  
When you shut down your computer, the power turns off, but some  
electrical current still flows through it. To avoid possible injury from electrical  
shock, unplug the power cord, modem cable, and network cable from the wall  
outlets.  
•
•
Always turn off your computer and other peripheral  
devices before cleaning any components.  
Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean your computer and  
other parts of your system. Do not use household  
abrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damage  
the finish on components.  
•
Your computer is cooled by air circulated through the  
vents on the case, so keep the vents free of dust. With  
your computer turned off and unplugged, brush the  
dust away from the vents with a damp cloth. Be careful  
not to drip any water into the vents.  
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Cleaning the keyboard  
You should occasionally clean the keyboard to remove dust  
and lint trapped under the keys.  
To clean the keyboard:  
1
Use an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like  
extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the  
keys.  
2
If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off your  
computer and turn the keyboard upside down. Let the  
liquid drain, then let the keyboard dry before trying to  
use it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries,  
you may need to replace it.  
Cleaning the monitor  
Caution  
A flat-panel display is made of specially coated glass and can be  
scratched or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based glass cleaners.  
To clean the monitor:  
•
To clean an LCD flat panel monitor, use a soft cloth and  
water to clean the screen. Dampen the cloth (never  
apply liquid directly to the screen), then wipe the screen  
with the cloth.  
•
To clean a CRT monitor, use a soft cloth and glass  
cleaner to clean the monitor screen. Squirt a little  
cleaner on the cloth (never directly on the screen), then  
wipe the screen with the cloth.  
Cleaning the mouse  
If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across the  
computer screen or becomes difficult to control precisely,  
cleaning the mouse will likely improve its accuracy.  
To clean the mouse:  
•
Wipe the bottom of the mouse with a damp, lint-free  
cloth.  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
Cleaning optical discs  
Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs) get dirty from  
frequent handling.  
To clean an optical disc:  
1
Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle,  
using a product made especially for the purpose.  
Updating Windows  
Windows Update helps you keep your computer up-to-date.  
Use Windows Update to choose updates for your computer’s  
operating system, software, and hardware. New content is  
added to the site regularly, so you can always get the most  
recent updates and fixes to protect your computer and keep  
it running smoothly. Windows Update scans your computer  
and provides you with a tailored selection of updates that  
apply only to the software and hardware on your computer.  
For information on running Windows Update, see “Windows  
Update” in your online User Guide. Windows Update can also  
be controlled through the Windows Security Center. For more  
information, see “Protecting Your Computer” in your online  
User Guide.  
Help  
For more information about Windows Update, click Start, then click Help  
and Support. Type windows update in the Search Help box, then press  
ENTER.  
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Using 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.  
To start BigFix:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click BigFix.  
2
To learn more about BigFix, click Help, then click  
Tutorial.  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
Managing hard drive space  
Windows provides several utilities you can use to check hard  
drive space, delete unnecessary files, defragment files, and  
back up files.  
Checking hard drive space  
To check hard drive space:  
Shortcut  
Start Ö Computer Ö right-click drive Ö Properties  
1
Click  
(Start) then click Computer. The Computer  
window opens.  
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2
Right-click the drive that you want to check for available  
file space, then click Properties. Drive space  
information appears.  
Deleting unnecessary files  
Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in  
the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space.  
To delete unnecessary files:  
Shortcut  
Start Ö Computer Ö right-click drive Ö Properties Ö  
Disk Cleanup  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog  
box opens.  
2
Click one of the options:  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
• My files only cleans only the folders for the  
currently logged in user.  
• Files from all users on this computer cleans all  
folders.  
The Disk Cleanup dilalog box opens.  
3
Click to select the types of files you want to delete, then  
click OK. The types of files you indicated are deleted.  
Help  
For more information about keeping the hard drive free of  
unnecessary files, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type d isk  
clean u p in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Checking the hard drive for errors  
The Error-checking program examines the hard drive for  
physical flaws and file and folder problems. This program  
corrects file and folder problems and marks flawed areas on  
the hard drive so Windows does not use them.  
If you use your computer several hours every day, you  
probably want to run Error-checking once a week. If you use  
your computer less frequently, once a month may be  
adequate. Also use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive  
problems.  
To check the hard drive for errors:  
1
Click  
(Start) then click Computer. The Computer  
window opens.  
2
Right-click the drive that you want to check for errors,  
click Properties, then click the Tools tab.  
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3
Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked  
for errors. This process may take several minutes.  
Important  
Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used,  
so if you try to check your hard drive for errors, you see a prompt asking  
you if you want to scan the hard drive later (the next time you restart  
your computer). If you see this prompt, click Schedule disc check.  
After Windows has finished checking the drive for  
errors, it provides a summary of the problems that it  
found.  
4
5
Correct any problems that are found by following the  
on-screen instructions.  
Click OK.  
Help  
For more information about checking the hard drive for errors,  
click Start, then click Help and Support. Type ch eckin g for d isk  
errors in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Defragmenting the hard drive  
When working with files, sometimes Windows divides the file  
information into pieces and stores them in different places on  
the hard drive. This is called fragmentation, and it is normal.  
In order for your computer to use a file, Windows must search  
for the pieces of the file and put them back together. This  
process slows the hard drive performance.  
Disk Defragmenter organizes the data on the drive so each  
file is stored as one unit rather than as multiple pieces  
scattered across different areas of the drive. Defragmenting  
the information stored on the drive can improve hard drive  
performance.  
While Disk Defragmenter is running, do not use your keyboard  
or mouse because using them may continuously stop and  
restart the defragmenting process. Also, if you are connected  
to a network, log off before starting Disk Defragmenter.  
Network communication may stop the defragmentation  
process and cause it to start over.  
Tip  
Because defragmenting a drive may take hours to complete (depending  
on the size of the drive being defragmented), consider starting the process  
when you will not need the computer for several hours.  
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To defragment the hard drive:  
1
2
Disconnect your computer from the network.  
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk  
Defragmenter dialog box opens.  
3
Click Defragment now. This process may take hours to  
complete, depending on the size of the drive being  
defragmented.  
Help  
For more information about defragmenting the hard drive, click  
Start, then click Help and Support. Type defragm en tin g in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Backing up files  
Backing up files and removing them from the hard drive frees  
space for new files on the hard drive. It also protects you from  
losing important information if the hard drive fails or you  
accidentally delete files.  
You should back up your files regularly to a writable optical  
disc (if you have a recordable drive). Use a backup device, such  
as a recordable disc drive, to do a complete hard drive backup.  
If you do not have a high-capacity backup device and you  
want to purchase one, you can visit the Accessories Store at  
www.gateway.com.  
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To back up files:  
1
Click  
(Start) then click Computer. The Computer  
window opens.  
2
Right-click the drive that you want to back up, click  
Properties, then click the Tools tab.  
3
4
Click Backup Now, then click Run a file backup now.  
Follow the on-screen instructions to select a backup  
storage location and the files and folders to back up.  
Help  
For more information about backing up files, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type backu p in the Search Help box, then  
press ENTER.  
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Scheduling maintenance tasks  
Task Scheduler lets you schedule maintenance tasks such as  
running Disk Defragmenter and checking your drives for  
errors.  
Important  
Your computer must be on during scheduled tasks. If your computer is  
off, scheduled tasks will not run.  
To start the Task Scheduler:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Task Scheduler. The Task Scheduler  
dialog box opens.  
2
Click Create Basic Task for basic tasks or click Create  
Task for more complex tasks, then follow the on-screen  
instructions to finish setting up and scheduling the task.  
Help  
For more information about scheduling tasks, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type task sch ed u ler in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
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Moving from your old  
computer  
Transferring files and settings with Windows  
Easy Transfer  
You can move your files, folders, software settings, and user  
account settings (such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings)  
from your old computer to your new one using Windows Easy  
Transfer, providing your old computer uses Windows XP or  
Windows Vista.  
While using Windows Easy Transfer, you will not be able to  
run other tasks on the computers.  
Important  
If your old computer does not use Windows XP or Windows Vista, you  
must manually move your data by using a writeable disc, flash drive, or external  
hard drive.  
To move files and settings from your old computer:  
1
If you want to transfer program settings to your new  
computer, install those programs on the new computer  
before running Windows Easy Transfer. Windows Easy  
Transfer copies only the software’s settings, not the  
software itself, to the new computer.  
2
3
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Windows Easy Transfer. The Windows  
Easy Transfer dialog box opens.  
Click Next, click Start a new transfer, then follow the  
on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.  
Help  
For more information about transferring files, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type tran sferrin g files in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
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Transferring files and settings manually  
You can manually transfer your personal data files by copying  
them to removable media, such as a writable disc, an external  
hard drive, a network location, or a flash drive.  
Finding your documents  
Many programs save your personal data files in the  
Documents or My Documents folder. Look in your old  
computer’s documents folder for personal data files.  
To find files in the documents folder:  
1
In Windows Vista, click  
(Start), then click  
Documents. The Documents folder opens and displays  
many of your saved personal data files. Go to Step 4.  
- OR -  
In Windows XP, click Start, then click My Documents.  
The My Documents window opens and displays many  
of your saved personal data files. Go to Step 4.  
- OR -  
In Windows 98, Windows Me, or Windows 2000,  
double-click the My Computer icon on the desktop. Go  
to the next step.  
2
3
Double-click the C:\ drive icon.  
Double-click the Documents or My Documents folder.  
The My Documents window opens and displays many  
of your saved personal data files.  
4
Copy your personal data files to removable media or to  
another computer on your network.  
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Finding other files  
Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data  
files. For more information, see your online User Guide.  
You can often identify different data file types by looking at  
the file’s extension (the part of the file name following the last  
period). For example, a document file might have a .DOC  
extension and a spreadsheet file might have an .XLS  
extension.  
File type  
File usually ends in...  
Documents  
Spreadsheets  
Pictures  
.DOC, .TXT, .RTF, .HTM, .HTML, .DOT  
.XLS, .XLT, .TXT  
.JPG, .BMP, .GIF, .PDF, .PCT, .TIF, .PNG, .EPS  
.MPEG, .MPG, .AVI, .GIF, .MOV  
.WAV, .CDA, .MP3, .MID, .MIDI, .WMA  
Movies  
Sound and music  
To find files using Find or Search:  
1
In Windows Vista, click  
(Start), then click Search.  
The Search Results window opens.  
- OR -  
In Windows XP, click Start, then click Search. The  
Search Results window opens.  
- OR -  
In Windows 98, Windows Me, or Windows 2000, click  
Start, Find or Search, then click For Files or Folders.  
The Search Results window opens.  
2
3
Type the filename you want to search for, then press  
ENTER. The search results are displayed.  
To learn about more search options, click Help.  
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CHAPTER7  
Troubleshooting  
• Safety guidelines  
• First steps  
• Troubleshooting  
• Restoring your computer  
• Telephone support  
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Safety guidelines  
While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety  
guidelines:  
Warning  
Never open your computer case while your computer is turned on and  
while the modem cable, network cable, and power cord are connected.  
Warning  
Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal  
components. For more information about preventing damage from static  
electricity, see “Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 50.  
Warning  
To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your computer  
problem if:  
• Power cords or plugs are damaged  
• Liquid has been spilled into your computer  
• Your computer was dropped  
• The case was damaged  
Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer technician.  
First steps  
If you have problems with your computer, try these things  
first:  
•
Make sure that the power cord is connected to your  
computer and an AC power outlet and that the power  
outlet is supplying power.  
•
•
If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure  
that it is turned on.  
If a peripheral device does not work, make sure that all  
connections are secure.  
•
•
Make sure that your hard drive is not full.  
If an error message appears on the screen, write down  
the exact message. The message may help Customer  
Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem.  
•
•
If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the  
installation procedures you performed and make sure  
that you followed each instruction.  
If an error occurs in a program, see the program’s  
printed documentation or the online help.  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type the keyword/phrase trou blesh ootin g  
in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
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Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order.  
Add-in cards  
See “Expansion cards” on page 107.  
Audio  
See “Sound” on page 122.  
CD or DVD drives  
The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD or DVD  
drive  
•
•
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.  
Try a different disc. Occasionally, discs are flawed or  
become scratched and cannot be read by the CD or DVD  
drive.  
•
•
If you are trying to play a DVD, make sure that you have  
a DVD drive. To identify your drive type, see “Identifying  
optical drive types” on page 25.  
Your computer may be experiencing some temporary  
memory problems. Shut down and restart your  
computer.  
•
•
•
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You  
may not be able to play these CDs on your computer.  
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning  
optical discs” on page 88.  
Restart your computer, then enter the BIOS Setup utility  
by pressing and holding F2 while your computer  
restarts. Make sure that the IDE controllers are enabled.  
•
•
Make sure that the drive is configured correctly by  
following the instructions in the drive documentation.  
Reinstall the device driver.  
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An audio CD does not produce sound  
•
•
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.  
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You  
may not be able to play these CDs on your computer.  
•
•
•
Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For  
more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on  
page 30.  
Make sure that the mute controls are turned off. For  
more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on  
page 30.  
If you have external speakers attached, make sure that  
the speakers are turned on and that the cables are  
connected correctly and securely.  
•
•
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning  
optical discs” on page 88.  
•
Reinstall the appropriate device drivers.  
A DVD movie will not play  
•
Make sure that you have a DVD drive. To identify your  
drive type, see “Identifying optical drive types” on  
page 25.  
•
•
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.  
Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed or  
become scratched and cannot be read by the DVD drive.  
•
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning  
optical discs” on page 88.  
•
•
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Make sure that the DVD program has been installed on  
your computer.  
•
DVDs and DVD drives contain regional codes that help  
control DVD title exports and help reduce illegal disc  
distribution. To be able to play a DVD, the disc’s regional  
code and your DVD drive’s regional code must match.  
The regional code on your DVD drive is determined by  
your computer’s delivery address. The regional code for  
the United States and Canada is 1. The regional code for  
Mexico is 4. Your DVD drive’s regional code must match  
the regional code for the disc. The regional code for the  
disc is on the disc, disc documentation, or disc  
packaging.  
If the DVD movie does not play, the disc’s regional code  
and your DVD drive’s regional code may not match.  
•
Reinstall the device driver.  
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Display  
The screen resolution is not correct  
•
Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings  
dialog box. For more information, see the “Customizing  
Windows” chapter in your online User Guide.  
The computer is running, but there is no picture  
•
Adjust the brightness and contrast controls to the  
center position.  
•
If you are using an external display:  
• Check the cable for bent or damaged pins.  
• Make sure that the display is plugged in and turned  
on. If the display is turned on, the power LED should  
be lit.  
• Make sure that the video cable is connected to the  
video port on your computer.  
• Connect an external display that you know works to  
your computer.  
•
Reinstall the device driver.  
The color is not uniform  
•
Make sure that the display warms up for at least  
30 minutes before making a final judgment about color  
uniformity.  
The text on the display is dim or difficult to read  
•
•
Adjust the brightness and contrast controls.  
Change the display settings. For more information, see  
the “Customizing” chapter in your online User Guide.  
For more information about display types, see your display  
and video card documentation.  
Help  
For more information about changing the screen resolution, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type the phrase screen resolu tion in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
DVD drives  
•
See “CD or DVD drives” on page 103.  
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Ethernet  
You cannot see the other computers on your network  
•
Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the  
Ethernet jack on your computer. Make sure that the  
other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub,  
or other network device.  
•
•
Make sure that all computers are plugged into a  
powered electrical outlet and turned on.  
Make sure that the router (if you are using one) is  
plugged into a powered electrical outlet and turned on.  
Most routers have lights that indicate they are working.  
For more information, see the documentation that came  
with your router.  
•
If you are using a router, try rebooting it by unplugging  
its power cord, waiting five seconds, then plugging it  
back in.  
•
•
•
Make sure that all computers on your network have the  
same workgroup name.  
Make sure that all computers are using the same Subnet  
Mask.  
If you assigned IP addresses to the computers, make  
sure that all computers have different IP addresses. For  
home networks, IP addresses should be 192.168.N.N  
where N is a number you assign between 0 and 254.  
The first N should be the same for all computers on your  
network and the second N should be different for all  
computers on your network.  
The computer does not recognize an Ethernet expansion  
card  
•
•
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Make sure that you have installed the required  
software. For more information, see the documentation  
that came with your Ethernet card.  
•
Reseat the card. For more information about opening  
your computer case, see “Opening the case” on  
page 51. For more information about your Ethernet  
card, see the documentation that came with your  
Ethernet card.  
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Your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect  
•
If your Ethernet network is running slower than you  
expect, check the speed of each Ethernet component.  
For best results, all Ethernet components should be  
standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps  
or 10/100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or  
10/100/1000 Mbps). A mixture of Ethernet, Fast  
Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet components will result  
in your network running at the slowest component  
speed.  
Expansion cards  
The computer does not recognize an expansion card  
•
•
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Make sure that you have installed the required  
software. For more information, see the documentation  
that came with your expansion card.  
•
Reseat the card.  
File management  
Help  
For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type the keyword/phrase System Restore in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
A file was accidentally deleted  
If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key, the file  
cannot be restored.  
To restore deleted files:  
1
2
Double-click the Recycle Bin icon.  
Right-click the file you want to restore, then click  
Restore. The file is restored to the place where it was  
originally deleted from.  
If the Recycle Bin was emptied before you try to restore  
a file, the file cannot be restored.  
You need to restore your computer to a working condition  
See “Restoring your computer” on page 122.  
•
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Hard drive  
You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message  
•
Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk  
Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files,  
see “Deleting unnecessary files” on page 91.  
Help  
For more information about file management, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type the phrase file m an agem en t in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
•
•
Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the Recycle Bin  
icon, then clicking Empty Recycle Bin.  
Caution  
All deleted files will be lost when you empty the Recycle Bin.  
Save your files to another drive. If the hard drive is full,  
copy any files not regularly used to backup media, then  
delete them from the hard drive.  
You see a “Data error” message  
•
This may be the result of a defective area on the hard  
drive. To fix hard drive problems, run the error checking  
program. For instructions on fixing hard drive problems,  
see “Checking the hard drive for errors” on page 92.  
The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you see a “General  
failure reading drive C” error message  
•
If a diskette is in the diskette drive, eject it and restart  
your computer.  
•
If your computer has been subjected to static electricity  
or physical shock, you may need to reinstall the  
operating system. See “Restoring your computer” on  
page 122.  
You see a “Non-system disk” or “disk error” error message  
•
Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press  
ENTER.  
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Internet  
See also “Modem (dial-up)” on page 115.  
You cannot connect to the Internet  
•
If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the  
modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not  
the Ethernet network jack. See your setup poster to  
make sure that the connections have been made  
correctly.  
- OR -  
If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that  
the modem cable is plugged into the Ethernet network  
jack and not the modem jack. See your setup poster to  
make sure that the connections have been made  
correctly.  
•
•
Make sure that your account with your Internet service  
provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP  
technical support for help.  
Make sure that you do not have a problem with your  
modem. For more information, “Modem (dial-up)” on  
page 115.  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting Internet  
connections, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the phrase  
trou blesh ootin g con n ection s in the Search Help box, then press  
ENTER.  
You see an “Unable to locate host” message and are unable  
to browse the Internet  
•
This problem can occur when you have typed a URL  
(Web address) incorrectly, you have lost your Internet  
connection, or your ISP is having technical difficulties.  
Double-check the URL or try a different URL. If the error  
message still appears, disconnect from the ISP  
connection and close your browser, then reconnect and  
open the browser. If you still get the error, your ISP may  
be having technical difficulties.  
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Connecting to a Web site takes too long  
Many factors can affect Internet performance:  
•
The condition of the telephone lines in your residence  
or at your local telephone service  
•
The condition of the Internet computers to which you  
connect and the number of users accessing those  
computers  
•
•
The complexity of graphics and multimedia on Web  
pages  
Having multiple Web browsers open, performing  
multiple downloads, and having multiple programs  
open on your computer  
People are sending you e-mail messages, but you have not  
received any mail  
•
•
Click the receive button in your e-mail program.  
Make sure that your account with your Internet service  
provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP for  
technical support.  
Keyboard  
The keyboard does not work  
•
Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in  
correctly. For more information, see your computer’s  
setup poster.  
•
•
Remove all extension cables and switch boxes.  
Clean the keyboard by using an aerosol can of air with  
a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint  
trapped under the keys.  
•
•
Try a keyboard that you know works to make sure that  
the keyboard port works.  
Reinstall the keyboard device driver.  
A keyboard character keeps repeating or you see a  
“keyboard stuck” or “key failure” error message  
•
•
Make sure that nothing is resting on the keyboard.  
Make sure that a key is not stuck. Press each key to  
loosen a key that might be stuck, then restart your  
computer.  
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Liquid spilled in the keyboard  
•
If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your  
computer and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard  
and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard  
dry before using it again. If the keyboard does not work  
after it dries, you may need to replace it.  
Media Center  
This section only covers problems relating to Media Center  
mode. Media Center mode is available only on Windows Vista  
Home Premium and Ultimate versions. To view Media Center  
troubleshooting information that is not covered in this section,  
go to the Gateway support Web Site at www.gateway.com.  
Help  
For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type the phrase Media Cen ter in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV  
Many factors, such as the display type, quality of the video  
source, type of connection used, quality of video cables,  
display device screen resolution, size of TV, age of the TV, or  
the type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan), can affect the  
video quality significantly:  
•
Display type—The Media Center is best viewed on  
computer displays. Other types of display devices,  
including retail TVs, may provide lower quality video. If  
you did not order a display device when you purchased  
your computer, a progressive scan display device with  
a VGA input is the best choice.  
•
Quality of video source—The quality of the video  
signal coming into the computer has an affect on the  
video quality. The video displayed from Media Center is  
only as good as the source video signal. Cable, digital  
cable, and satellite usually provide better quality than  
an antenna.  
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•
Type of connection used—You can connect the  
computer video output to a TV. However, the  
connection type has an affect on the video quality. The  
Media Center has two video outputs:  
• VGA—If your TV includes a VGA port, connect the  
VGA cable from the computer’s VGA (monitor) port  
to the TV’s VGA In port for the best quality. Many  
TVs do not have a VGA port.  
• S-Video—If your TV does not have a VGA port, but  
includes an S-Video port, connect the S-Video cable  
from the computer’s S-Video Out port to the TV’s  
S-Video In port. S-Video display quality is usually  
good for TV images. The display quality for the  
computer functions, however, is not as good as VGA  
output. S-Video display output is not optimized for  
computer video display.  
•
Quality of video cables—Poor quality or the incorrect  
type of video cables can cause problems and affect the  
video quality. Gateway recommends using high-quality  
video cables that can be purchased from  
www.gateway.com.  
Important  
Cable connections must be made correctly for  
optimal video quality. A loose cable connection can  
lower video quality.  
•
•
•
Screen resolution—Many TVs cannot display the high  
resolution that your computer’s video signal uses, and  
may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better  
picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the  
computer’s screen resolution to 800 × 600 or 640 × 480.  
For more information about changing the screen  
resolution, see the “Customizing Windows” chapter in  
the online User Guide.  
Size of display device—Small computer displays for  
standard computer applications are generally not  
optimized for motion video playback. Although they  
offer excellent resolutions and refresh rates, they are  
designed to make static white backgrounds with black  
text look readable. Some small display devices do not  
make colorful motion video look its best. Generally,  
video will look better on a larger display device.  
Age of the TV—Newer TVs usually have more  
advanced features, produce a better quality picture,  
and support higher screen resolutions. The Media  
Center video display will likely be better on a newer  
model TV.  
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•
Type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan)  
Many CRT (tube) TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced  
video displays a video frame with two passes of  
alternating scan lines. The TV screen first displays the  
video image odd lines one at a time, sequentially from  
top to bottom, then it fills in the other half of the video  
image with the even lines. Because most TVs use this  
interlaced method to display the picture on the screen,  
a standard interlaced analog TV will most likely flicker  
when displaying thin lines and small text. An interlaced  
video display device will produce a lower quality  
display, especially when viewing and using the  
computer functions.  
Progressive scan video displays a video frame with one  
pass of sequential scan lines. A progressive scan TV  
displays the entire picture, drawn sequentially from top  
to bottom, without the odd/even interlacing. This  
results in a fuller, sharper picture and better display  
quality for viewing and using the computer functions.  
The progressive scan picture is also brighter and easier  
on your eyes.  
You need to configure your computer to output to a TV  
•
Your computer detects whether you are using a VGA or  
an S-Video display device and automatically changes  
the display settings for the type of display device you  
are using. For more information, see the Gateway  
support Web site at www.gateway.com.  
You want to change display settings to get better TV or DVD  
image quality  
•
Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and  
saturation. For more information, see the Gateway  
support Web site at www.gateway.com or see the  
display’s user guide.  
You need to burn programs that were recorded with your  
computer to a DVD using Media Center  
•
Media Center saves recorded programs in the DVR-MS  
format. You can burn a DVR-MS file to a DVD with DVD  
recording (burning) software and with Media Center  
itself.  
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You want to play recorded programs on other computers  
•
A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be replayed on  
another computer running Media Center or on any  
computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder  
software (such as WinDVD). The non-Media Center  
computer must also have at least Windows XP with  
Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or  
later, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update.  
You get a “Download Error” message when Media Center  
tries to update the Program Guide  
•
You must be connected to the Internet to update the  
Program Guide. Make sure that your Internet account  
is set up and connected to the computer. For  
information about manually updating the Program  
Guide, see your online User Guide.  
Memory  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting memory errors, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type the phrase m em ory error in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
You see a “Memory error” message  
•
Use the Memory Diagnostic Tool to inspect your system  
memory.  
To run the Memory Diagnostic Tool:  
• Click  
(Start), type Mem ory Diagn ostic Tool,  
then press ENTER. Click Restart now and check for  
problems. Your computer restarts and runs the  
memory diagnostics.  
You see a “Not enough memory” error message  
Close all programs, then restart your computer.  
•
Memory card reader  
Drive letters for the memory card slots do not appear in  
the Computer window  
•
The memory card reader was temporarily uninstalled  
using the Remove Hardware icon in the system tray.  
Reboot your computer, and your card reader will be  
re-installed.  
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Modem (cable or DSL)  
My computer cannot connect to the Internet.  
•
Make sure that your modem is connected to the  
network jack.  
Tip  
For the location of your network jack, see your setup poster or  
“Back” on page 8.  
•
See the documentation that came with your modem for  
additional troubleshooting information.  
Modem (dial-up)  
See also “Internet” on page 109.  
Your modem does not dial or does not connect  
•
Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the  
modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. See  
your setup poster to make sure that the connections  
have been made correctly.  
•
•
•
Make sure that your computer is connected to the  
telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone.  
Make sure that the modem cable is less than 6 feet  
(1.8 meters) long.  
Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your  
telephone line, then check for a dial tone by plugging  
a working telephone into the telephone wall jack.  
•
If you have additional telephone services such as call  
waiting, call messaging, or voice mail, make sure that  
all messages are cleared and call waiting is disabled  
before using the modem. Contact your telephone  
service to get the correct code to temporarily disable  
the service. Also make sure that the modem dialing  
properties are set correctly.  
To check the dialing properties:  
1
Click  
(Start), then click Control Panel. The  
Control Panel window opens.  
2
Click Hardware and Sound, then click Phone and  
Modem Options. The Phone and Modem Options  
dialog box opens.  
3
If this is the first time you have accessed this  
category, the Location Information dialog box  
opens. Enter the information for your area, then  
click OK.  
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4
5
Click the Dialing Rules tab, click the location from  
which you are dialing, then click Edit.  
Make sure that all settings are correct.  
Help  
For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type the keyword dialin g in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
•
Disconnect any answering machine, fax machine, or  
printer that is on the same line as the modem. Do not  
connect these devices to the same telephone line as the  
modem.  
•
•
Make sure that you are not using a digital, rollover, or  
PBX line. These lines do not work with your modem.  
Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping  
sounds). Line noise is a common problem that can cause  
the modem to connect at a slower rate, abort  
downloads, or even disconnect. The faster the modem,  
the less line noise it can tolerate and still work correctly.  
Listen to the line using your telephone. Dial a single  
number (such as 1). When the dial tone stops, listen for  
line noise. Wiggle the modem cable to see if that makes  
a difference. Make sure that the connectors are free  
from corrosion and all screws in the telephone wall jack  
are secure.  
You can also call your telephone service and have the  
telephone line checked for noise or low line levels.  
•
•
Try another telephone line (either a different telephone  
number in your house or a telephone line at a different  
location). If you can connect on this line, call your  
telephone service.  
Try connecting with the modem at a lower connection  
speed. If reducing the connect speed lets you connect,  
call your telephone service. The telephone line may be  
too noisy.  
You cannot connect to the Internet  
•
The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact  
your ISP for technical support.  
•
See if the modem works with a different  
communications program. The problem may be with  
just one program.  
•
Review the troubleshooting information under  
“Internet” on page 109.  
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Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K  
Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over  
public telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise,  
telephone service provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may  
lower the speed even further.  
If your computer has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you  
can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K. If your computer  
has a v.92 modem, the speed at which you can upload data  
is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads.  
Your fax communications program only sends and receives  
faxes at 14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem  
•
Current fax technology only supports a maximum send  
and receive rate of 14,400 bps.  
The modem is not recognized by your computer  
•
Make sure that the line connected to the modem is  
working and plugged into the appropriate port on your  
computer. To make sure that the connections have been  
made correctly, see your setup poster or “Connecting  
a dial-up modem” on page 16.  
•
•
If the modem shares the telephone line with another  
device, make sure that the telephone line is not in use  
(for example, someone is on the telephone, or another  
modem is in use).  
Use the modem cable that came with your computer.  
Some telephone cables do not meet required cable  
standards and may cause problems with the modem  
connection.  
•
•
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Run Windows modem diagnostics.  
To run modem diagnostics:  
1
2
Close all open programs.  
Click  
(Start), then click Control Panel. The  
Control Panel window opens.  
3
Click Hardware and Sound, then click Phone and  
Modem Options. The Phone and Modem Options  
dialog box opens.  
4
5
If the Location Information dialog box opens, enter  
your location information, then click OK.  
Click the Modems tab, click your modem, then click  
Properties. The Modem Properties dialog box  
opens.  
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6
Click the Diagnostic tab, then click Query Modem.  
If information about the modem appears, the  
modem passed diagnostics. If no modem  
information is available, a white screen appears with  
no data, or if you get an error such as port already  
open or the modem has failed to respond, the  
modem did not pass diagnostics.  
Help  
For more information about modem troubleshooting, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type the phrase m odem  
trou blesh ootin g in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
The modem is noisy when it dials and connects  
When your modem tries to connect to another modem, it  
begins handshaking. Handshaking is a digital “getting  
acquainted” conversation between the two modems that  
establishes connection speeds and communication protocols.  
You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems  
first connect. If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can  
turn down the modem volume.  
To turn down the modem volume:  
1
Click  
(Start), then click Control Panel. The  
Control Panel window opens.  
2
Click Hardware and Sound, then click Phone and  
Modem Options. The Phone and Modem Options  
dialog box opens.  
3
4
5
Click the Modems tab, click the modem you want  
to adjust, then click Properties.  
Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker  
volume control.  
Click OK twice to close the Phone and Modem  
Options dialog box.  
Monitor  
See “Display” on page 105.  
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Mouse  
The mouse does not work  
•
•
•
•
Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly.  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Remove all extension cables and switch boxes.  
Try a mouse you know is working to make sure that the  
mouse port works.  
The mouse works erratically  
•
If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across  
the computer display or becomes difficult to control  
precisely, cleaning the mouse will likely improve its  
accuracy.  
•
•
Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean,  
damp cloth. Make sure that the optical sensor is clean  
and free of debris.  
The mouse pad may have a printed or fabric pattern on  
it that interferes with your mouse. Try a different mouse  
pad.  
Networks  
You cannot connect to your company network  
Every network is unique. Contact your company computer  
department or network administrator for help. For more  
information about setting up a network in your home, see  
“Connecting to a broadband modem or network” on page 15  
or “Ethernet” on page 106.  
Help  
For more information about network troubleshooting, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type the phrase n etw ork trou blesh ootin g in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Passwords  
Your computer does not accept your password  
•
Make sure that CAPS LOCK is turned off, then retype the  
password.  
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Power  
Printer  
Your computer will not turn on  
•
Make sure that the power cord is connected to an  
AC power source and to your computer, and that your  
computer is turned on.  
•
If your computer is plugged into a surge protector,  
make sure that the surge protector is connected  
securely to a power outlet, turned on, and working  
correctly. To test the outlet, plug a working device, such  
as a lamp, into the outlet and turn it on.  
•
Make sure that the power cord is free from cuts or  
damage. Replace any damaged cables.  
The printer will not turn on  
•
Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have  
an online/offline button that you may need to press.  
•
Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an  
AC power source.  
The printer is on but will not print  
•
Check the cable between the printer and your  
computer. Make sure that it is connected to the correct  
type of port.  
•
Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have  
an online/offline button that you may need to press so  
the printer can start printing. Press the button to put  
the printer online.  
•
•
Check the cable for bent or broken pins.  
If the printer you want to print to is not the default  
printer, make sure that you have selected it in the  
printer setup.  
To set a default printer:  
1
Click  
(Start), then click Control Panel. The  
Control Panel window opens.  
2
Click Hardware and Sound, then click the Change  
Default Printer option under the Printers  
category. The Printer window opens.  
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3
Right-click the printer you want to be the default  
printer, then click Set as Default Printer.  
•
Reinstall the printer driver. See the guide that came with  
your printer for instructions on installing the printer  
driver.  
You see a “Printer queue is full” error message  
•
Make sure that the printer is not set to work offline.  
To make sure that the printer is not set to work offline:  
1
2
3
Click  
(Start), then click Control Panel. The  
Control Panel window opens.  
Click Hardware and Sound, then click the Printers  
category. The Printers window opens.  
Right-click the printer you want to use. If the menu  
shows a check mark next to Use Printer Offline,  
click Use Printer Offline to clear the check mark.  
•
•
Wait until files have been printed before sending  
additional files to the printer.  
If you print large files or many files at one time, you  
may want to add additional memory to the printer. See  
the printer documentation for instructions for adding  
additional memory.  
You see a “Printer is out of paper” error message  
After adding paper, make sure that the printer is online. Most  
printers have an online/offline button that you need to press  
after adding paper.  
Help  
For more information about printer troubleshooting, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type the phrase p rin ter trou blesh ooter in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
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Sound  
You are not getting sound from the speakers  
•
Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For  
more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on  
page 30.  
•
•
Make sure that mute controls are turned off. For more  
information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 30.  
If you are using external speakers:  
• Make sure that the speakers are turned on.  
• See the speaker setup poster to check your speaker  
connections.  
• Make sure that the universal jacks are configured  
correctly. For more information, see “Configuring  
the audio jacks” on page 32.  
Help  
For more information about sound troubleshooting, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type the phrase sou n d trou blesh ooter in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
Restoring your computer  
Recovering your system  
You can solve most computer problems by following the  
information in this chapter or in the technical support pages  
at www.gateway.com. Problem solving may also involve  
re-installing some or all of the computer’s software (also  
called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides  
everything you need to recover your system under most  
conditions.  
Caution  
To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you  
should create a set of software and driver recovery discs as soon as possible.  
For instructions, see “Preparing for software and device driver recovery” on  
page 124.  
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•
If only one or two items of software or hardware have  
stopped working correctly, the problem may be solved  
by re-installing the software or the hardware drivers.  
To recover software and drivers that were pre-installed  
at the factory, see “Recovering pre-installed software  
and drivers” on page 123. For instructions on  
reinstalling software and drivers that were not  
pre-installed, see that product’s documentation or  
support Web site.  
•
•
If re-installing software or drivers does not help, then  
the problem may be solved by returning your system  
to a previous state when everything was working  
correctly. For instructions, see “Using Microsoft System  
Restore” on page 129.  
If nothing else has solved the problem and you want  
to return your system to factory condition, see  
“Recovering your system to its factory condition” on  
page 132.  
If you upgrade or exchange your hard drive or if your hard  
drive is completely erased or corrupted, your only option for  
system recovery may be to reinstall Windows from the  
Windows DVD, then recover your pre-installed software and  
device drivers using recovery discs that you created. (Your  
computer must have a DVD-compatible drive to use these  
options.)  
•
To re-install Windows using the Windows DVD, see  
“Recovering your system using the Windows DVD” on  
page 133.  
•
To re-install your pre-installed software and device  
drivers using recovery discs, see “Recovering  
pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”  
on page 127.  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers  
You can perform a partial recovery by recovering the software  
and device drivers that were pre-installed at the factory. If you  
need to recover software that did not come pre-installed on  
your system, you need to follow that software’s installation  
instructions.  
You can recover pre-installed software and drivers from a set  
of recovery discs (you must create the discs) or by using  
Gateway Recovery Center.  
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Preparing for software and device driver recovery  
You can usually recover your pre-installed software and  
drivers from your hard drive. However, if you ever re-install  
Windows from the Windows DVD or install a new hard drive,  
you need to recover your pre-installed software and drivers  
using a set of software and driver recovery discs. Because  
these discs do not come with your computer, you should  
create your own set.  
Caution  
Although you may not be expecting to need recovery discs, we  
recommend that you prepare for any eventuality and create a set of recovery  
discs while you have the opportunity.  
You should create a set of discs for recovering your  
pre-installed software and device drivers, in case you need to  
use them later for a complete system recovery. (Your  
computer must have a recordable disc drive to perform this  
procedure.)  
To create discs for recovering pre-installed software  
and drivers:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery  
Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The  
Gateway Recovery Center opens.  
2
3
Click Applications and drivers external media, then  
click Next. The What would you like to do? dialog box  
opens.  
Click Create system recovery discs, then click Next.  
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4
Insert a blank, recordable disc into a recordable disc  
drive, then click Next. If an AutoPlay dialog box opens,  
click the x in the upper-right corner to close it.  
A dialog box opens that tells you the number of blank  
discs you need to create a full set of recovery discs.  
5
If you have enough blank discs of the specified type,  
click I have enough discs, then click Next. If you do  
not have enough discs, choose a different disc type, or  
click Cancel.  
The disc recording begins. Label the discs as they are  
completed.  
Important  
Use a permanent marker to label each disc “Software and Driver  
Recovery,” along with a short description of which computer the discs  
are for. If you are recording multiple discs, as you remove each disc  
from the drive, use the marker to label each disc 1 of x, 2 of x, 3 of x,  
and so on.  
Tip  
After a recovery disc is created, your computer names the disc  
Recovery13 for disc 1 of a 3-disc set, Recovery23 for disc 2, and  
so on.  
6
7
If multiple discs are required, insert the additional blank  
disks when prompted.  
When the process is finished, the Congratulations!  
window opens.  
8
9
Click Finish.  
Remove your final disc, then label all of the discs and  
store them in a safe place.  
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Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using  
Gateway Recovery Center  
To recover specific drivers and software:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery  
Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The  
Gateway Recovery Center opens.  
Important  
If you have recently reinstalled Windows or installed a new hard  
drive, and your Start menu does not contain Gateway Recovery Center  
as an option, you must recover your software and drivers using  
software and driver recovery discs you have created. For instructions,  
see “Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”  
on page 127.  
2
To recover software that was pre-installed, click  
Programs, then click Application recovery.  
- OR -  
To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click  
Hardware, then click Device driver recovery.  
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3
Click the software or driver you want to recover, then  
click Next.  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using  
recovery discs  
If you created a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, each disc  
contains a unique set of software and drivers. If a recovery  
disc does not offer the software or driver you need to recover,  
try another disc.  
To recover software and drivers using recovery discs:  
1
Insert a software and driver recovery disc into a CD or  
DVD drive. If an AutoPlay dialog box appears,  
click Run Grc_Vista.exe. If an AutoPlay dialog box does  
not appear and Gateway Recovery Center does not  
start, open Computer and run the file Grc_Vista.exe  
on the disc.  
The Gateway Recovery Center starts.  
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2
To recover pre-installed software, click Application  
recovery, then click the software you want to recover.  
- OR -  
To recover pre-installed device drivers, click Device  
driver recovery, then click the type of driver you want  
to recover.  
3
4
Click Next.  
If the software or driver is not shown on the list, and  
you have a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, close  
Gateway Recovery Center and try another disc.  
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Using Microsoft System Restore  
Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of  
your system settings and saves them as restore points. In  
most cases of hard-to-resolve software problems, you can  
return to one of these restore points to get your system  
running again.  
Windows automatically creates an additional restore point  
each day, and also each time you install software or device  
drivers. You can also create a restore point manually. For  
instructions, see “Manually creating a restore point” on  
page 131.  
Help  
For more information about using Microsoft System Restore, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type w in d ow s system restore in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
To restore using Microsoft System Restore:  
1
Click  
(Start), Control Panel, System and  
Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center.  
The Backup and Restore Center opens.  
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On the left side of the window, click Repair Windows  
using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a  
restore point dialog box opens.  
3
4
Click the restore point you want, click Next, then click  
Finish. A confirmation message box appears.  
Click Yes. Your system is restored using the restore  
point you specified. This process may take several  
minutes, and may restart your computer.  
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Manually creating a restore point  
To manually create a restore point:  
1
Click  
(Start), Control Panel, System and  
Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center.  
The Backup and Restore Center opens.  
2
On the left side of the window, click Create a restore  
point or change settings, then click Next. The System  
Properties dialog box opens to the System Protection  
tab.  
3
Click Create. The Create a restore point dialog box  
opens.  
4
5
Type a description for the restore point (such as the date  
and time), then click Create. The restore point is  
created.  
Click OK.  
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Recovering your system to its factory  
condition  
If your computer’s problems are not solved by any of the  
other recovery options, you may need to recover its hard drive  
to its factory condition. This process is called a factory  
recovery.  
Caution  
A complete factory recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then  
reinstalls Windows and any pre-installed software and device drivers. If you can  
access important files on your hard drive, back them up now.  
To delete everything on your hard drive and re-install all  
factory software:  
1
2
3
If you can still run Windows:  
a
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery  
Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The  
Gateway Recovery Center opens.  
b
Click Recovery, then click Next. Your computer  
restarts.  
If you cannot run Windows:  
a
Turn on or restart your computer.  
b
While the computer is starting up, repeatedly press  
F8 until the Recovery Options screen opens. If  
Windows starts to load instead, restart the computer  
and try again.  
Press the arrow keys on your keyboard to select Repair  
Your Computer, then press ENTER.  
Gateway System Recovery starts, and the System  
Recovery Options dialog box opens.  
4
5
Select a language and keyboard layout, then click Next.  
Click the User name box to select a Windows user  
account, click in the Password box and type the user  
account’s password (if any), then click Next. The System  
Recovery Options menu opens.  
6
7
Click Restore Application. The Welcome to Gateway  
System Recovery window opens.  
Click Next.  
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8
To perform a recovery with data backup  
(recommended), click Recovery with automatic data  
backup, then click Next.  
Important  
Before your hard drive is recovered, your personal files will be  
automatically backed up to c:\backup.  
- OR -  
To perform a full factory recovery without data backup,  
click Full factory recovery, then click Next.  
Caution  
Continuing with the full factory recovery will delete everything  
on your hard drive. Make sure that you have backed up any important  
files you want to save.  
9
Click Yes, then click Next. The Factory image recovery  
window opens, which shows you the progress of the  
system recovery.  
When recovery is finished, the Recovery is complete  
window opens.  
10 Click Finish, then click Restart. Your computer restarts  
in its original factory condition. You still need to reinstall  
any software that was not pre-installed on your  
computer.  
If you selected Recovery with automatic data  
backup in Step 8, you can find your backed up files in  
c:\backup.  
Recovering your system using the  
Windows DVD  
If you install a new hard drive or completely re-format your  
original hard drive, you must recover your system using the  
Windows Vista operating system DVD. You also need to  
recover your computer’s pre-installed software and device  
drivers.  
To completely re-install Windows:  
1
If you can still run Windows, back up your personal files,  
and create a set of software and driver recovery discs  
(if you have not already done so). For instructions, see  
“To create discs for recovering pre-installed software  
and drivers:” on page 124.  
2
Insert the Windows DVD into one of your computer’s  
DVD-capable drives, then turn on or restart your  
computer.  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
3
4
5
When the prompt “Press any key to boot from CD  
or DVD” appears, press any key on your keyboard. A list  
of valid boot devices appears.  
Press the arrow keys to select the drive containing the  
Windows DVD, then press ENTER and follow the  
on-screen instructions.  
After Windows is completely re-installed, use the  
software and driver recovery discs you created to  
recover your computer’s pre-installed software and  
device drivers. For instructions, see “Recovering  
pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”  
on page 127.  
Telephone support  
Before calling Gateway Customer Care  
If you have a technical problem with your computer, follow  
these recommendations before contacting Gateway Customer  
Care:  
•
•
•
Make sure that your computer is connected correctly to  
a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use  
a surge protector, make sure that it is turned on.  
If a peripheral device, such as a keyboard or mouse,  
does not appear to work, make sure that all cables are  
plugged in securely.  
If you have recently installed hardware or software,  
make sure that you have installed it according to the  
instructions provided with it. If you did not purchase the  
hardware or software from Gateway, see the  
manufacturer’s documentation and technical support  
resources.  
•
•
If you have “how to” questions about using a program,  
see:  
• Online Help  
• Printed documentation  
• The Microsoft Windows documentation  
• The software publisher’s Web site  
See the troubleshooting section of this chapter.  
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Warning  
To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your  
computer problem if:  
• Power cords or plugs are damaged  
• Liquid has been spilled into your computer  
• Your computer was dropped  
• The case was damaged  
Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer  
technician.  
•
•
Have your customer ID, serial number, and order  
number available, along with a detailed description of  
your problem, including the exact text of any error  
messages, and the steps you have taken.  
Make sure that your computer is nearby at the time of  
your call. The technician may have you follow  
troubleshooting steps.  
Telephone numbers  
Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, Customer  
Care, and information services.  
Automated troubleshooting system  
Service description  
How to reach  
Use an automated menu system and your telephone  
keypad to find answers to common problems.  
800-846-2118  
(US and Canada)  
Telephone numbers  
You can access the following services through your telephone  
to get answers to your questions:  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
Resource  
Service description  
How to reach  
Answers by  
Gateway  
Get tutorial assistance for  
hardware and software issues.  
www.gateway.com/answers  
Gateway  
Customer  
Care  
Talk to a Gateway Customer  
Care representative about a  
non-tutorial technical support  
question.  
(See “Before calling Gateway  
Customer Care” on page 134  
before calling)  
Gateway Customer Care  
telephone numbers vary by  
country or region. See the  
label on the front or side of  
your computer.  
TDD Customer Care (for hearing  
impaired) is available:  
Weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.  
Pacific Time  
Weekends 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.  
Pacific Time  
605-232-2191  
Sales,  
Get information about available  
systems, pricing, orders, billing  
statements, warranty service, or  
other non-technical issues.  
800-846-2000 (US)  
888-387-7752 (Canada)  
accounting,  
and  
warranty  
Self-help  
If you have how-to questions about using your  
Gateway-supplied hardware or software, see the following  
resources:  
•
The printed or online documentation that came with  
your hardware or software. In many cases, additional  
product information and online documentation for  
Gateway-supplied hardware can be found in our Web  
site's Documentation Library.  
•
•
This Reference Guide and your online User Guide.  
The software publisher’s Web site.  
Help  
For more how-to information about Windows, click Start, then click Help  
and Support. Type the keyword p ractice in the Search Help box, then press  
ENTER.  
Tutoring  
Answers by GatewaySM is a telephone service that provides  
answers to all of your “How do I...” questions on Gateway  
computers. For more information, go to  
www.gateway.com/answers.  
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Training  
Gateway provides the following computer-based training:  
Resource  
Service description  
For more information  
Gateway  
Learning  
Libraries  
A variety of courses and  
tutorials are available on CD.  
Select from several  
www.gateway.com/training  
easy-to-use learning libraries.  
Online  
More than 450 online courses  
www.learnwithgateway.com  
Trainingfrom are available from  
Learn With  
Gateway  
Learn With Gateway. All you  
have to do is go online and log  
in. You select the subject  
matter, and the learning  
format (self-paced tutorials or  
virtual classrooms), all from  
the comfort of your computer.  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
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APPENDIXA  
Legal Notices  
• Important safety information  
• Regulatory compliance statements  
• Environmental information  
• Notices  
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APPENDIX A: Legal Notices  
Important safety information  
Warning  
Always follow these instructions to help guard against personal injury  
and damage to your Gateway system.  
Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of  
information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important  
that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.  
Setting up your system  
•
Read and follow all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation  
before you operate your system. Retain all safety and operating instructions for future  
use.  
•
•
•
Do not use this product near water or a heat source such as a radiator.  
Set up the system on a stable work surface.  
The product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the  
rating label.  
•
If your computer has a voltage selector switch, make sure that the switch is in the  
proper position for your area. The voltage selector switch is set at the factory to the  
correct voltage.  
•
Openings in the computer case are provided for ventilation. Do not block or cover these  
openings. Make sure you provide adequate space, at least 6 inches (15 cm), around the  
system for ventilation when you set up your work area. Never insert objects of any  
kind into the computer ventilation openings.  
•
Some products are equipped with a three-wire power cord to make sure that the  
product is properly grounded when in use. The plug on this cord will fit only into a  
grounding-type outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into  
an outlet, contact an electrician to install the appropriate outlet.  
•
•
If you use an extension cord with this system, make sure that the total ampere rating  
on the products plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the extension cord  
ampere rating.  
If your system is fitted with a TV Tuner, cable, or satellite receiver card, make sure  
that the antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection  
against voltage surges and buildup of static charges.  
Care during use  
Warning  
Do not use Gateway products in areas classified as hazardous locations.  
Such areas include patient care areas of medical and dental facilities,  
oxygen-laden environments, or industrial facilities.  
Warning  
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger (for example,  
No. 24 AWG ) UL-listed or CSA-certified telecommunication line cord for your  
dialup modem connection.  
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•
•
Do not walk on the power cord or allow anything to rest on it.  
Do not spill anything on the system. The best way to avoid spills is to avoid eating  
and drinking near your system.  
•
Some products have a replaceable CMOS battery on the system board. There is a danger  
of explosion if the CMOS battery is replaced incorrectly. Replace the battery with the  
same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of batteries  
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.  
•
When the computer is turned off, a small amount of electrical current still flows through  
the computer. To avoid electrical shock, always unplug all power cables and modem  
cables from the wall outlets before cleaning the system.  
•
•
•
•
•
•
Unplug the system from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified personnel if:  
The power cord or plug is damaged.  
Liquid has been spilled into the system.  
The system does not operate properly when the operating instructions are followed.  
The system was dropped or the cabinet is damaged.  
The system performance changes.  
Replacement parts and accessories  
Use only replacement parts and accessories recommended by Gateway.  
Regulatory compliance  
statements  
United States of America  
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)  
Unintentional emitter per FCC Part 15  
This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,  
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection  
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and  
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the  
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or television reception. However, there is  
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does  
cause interference to radio and television reception, which can be determined by turning the  
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more  
of the following measures:  
•
•
•
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver  
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit from that to which the receiver  
is connected  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
Compliance accessories: The accessories associated with this equipment are: shielded  
video cable when an external monitor is connected. These accessories are required to be used  
in order to ensure compliance with FCC rules.  
141  
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APPENDIX A: Legal Notices  
FCC declaration of conformity  
Responsible party:  
Gateway, Inc.  
7565 Irvine Center Drive  
Irvine, CA 92618  
Phone: 800-846-2000  
Caution  
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Gateway could void  
the FCC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this device is subject to the  
following two conditions: (1)this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device  
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired  
operation.  
California Proposition 65 Warning  
Warning  
This product contains chemicals, including lead, known to the State of  
California to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm.  
Telecommunications per Part 68 of the Code of  
Federal Regulations (CFR 47) (applicable to products  
fitted with USA modems)  
Your modem complies with Part 68 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR 47) rules. On the  
computer or modem card is a label that contains the FCC registration number and Ringer  
Equivalence Number (REN) for this device. If requested, this information must be provided to  
the telephone company.  
A telephone line cord with a modular plug is required for use with this device. The modem is  
designed to be connected to the telephone network or premises wiring using a compatible  
modular jack which is Part 68-compliant. See installation instructions for details.  
The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) is used to determine the number of devices which may  
be connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on a telephone line may result in the devices  
not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most areas, the sum of RENs should not exceed  
five (5.0). To be certain of the number of devices that may be connected to a line, as determined  
by the total RENs, contact the local telephone company.  
If this device causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in  
advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. The telephone company may  
request that you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved.  
The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations, or procedures  
that could affect the operation of this equipment. If this happens, the telephone company will  
provide advance notice in order for you to make necessary modifications to maintain  
uninterrupted service.  
This equipment cannot be used on telephone company-provided coin service. Connection to  
party line service is subject to state tariffs. Contact the state public utility commission or public  
service commission for information.  
When programming or making test calls to emergency numbers:  
•
Remain on the line and briefly explain to the dispatcher the reason for the call.  
Perform such activities in the off-peak hours such as early morning or late evenings.  
•
The United States Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person  
to use a computer or other electronic device to send any message via a telephone fax machine  
unless such message clearly contains, in a margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted page  
or on the first page of the transmission, the date and time it is sent, an identification of the  
business, other entity, or other individual sending the message, and the telephone number of  
the sending machine or such business, other entity, or individual. Refer to your fax  
communication software documentation for details on how to comply with the fax-branding  
requirement.  
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Canada  
Industry Canada (IC) Unintentional emitter per  
ICES-003  
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital  
apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of Industry Canada.  
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites  
applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage  
radioélectrique édicté par Industrie Canada.  
Telecommunications per Industry Canada CS-03 (for  
products fitted with an IC-compliant modem)  
The Industry Canada label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the  
equipment meets certain telecommunications network protective, operation, and safety  
requirements. The Department does not guarantee the equipment will operate to the users’  
satisfaction.  
Before installing this equipment, users should make sure that it is permissible to be connected  
to the facilities of the local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed  
using an acceptable method of connection. In some cases, the inside wiring associated with a  
single-line individual service may be extended by means of a certified connector assembly. The  
customer should be aware that compliance with the above conditions may not prevent  
degradation of service in some situations.  
Repairs to certified equipment should be made by an authorized Canadian maintenance facility  
designated by the supplier. Any repairs or alterations made by the user to this equipment, or  
equipment malfunctions, may give the telecommunications company cause to request the user  
to disconnect the equipment.  
Warning  
To avoid electrical shock or equipment malfunction do not attempt to  
make electrical ground connections by yourself. Contact the appropriate  
inspection authority or an electrician, as appropriate.  
Users should make sure, for their own protection, that the electrical ground connections of the  
power utility, telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected  
together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas.  
The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) assigned to each terminal device provides an  
indication of the maximum number of terminals allowed to be connected to a telephone  
interface. The termination on an interface may consist of any combination of devices subject  
only to the requirement that the sum of the Ringer Equivalence Numbers of all the devices does  
not exceed 5.  
Laser safety statement  
Warning  
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than  
those specified in this manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure. To  
prevent exposure to laser beams, do not try to open the enclosure of a CD or  
DVD drive.  
All Gateway systems equipped with CD and DVD drives comply with the appropriate safety  
standards, including IEC 825. The laser devices in these components are classified as “Class 1  
Laser Products” under a US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation  
Performance Standard. Should the unit ever need servicing, contact an authorized service  
location.  
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Television antenna connectors protection (for  
systems fitted with TV/cable TV tuner cards)  
External television antenna grounding  
Important  
The instructions are for the person who installs cable to the system.  
Gateway assumes you are qualified in the servicing of computer equipment and  
trained in recognizing hazards in products with electric shock.  
If an outside antenna or cable system is to be connected to your Gateway PC, make sure that  
the antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection against voltage  
surges and static charges.  
Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPSA 70, provides information with regard to  
proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an  
antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit,  
connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.  
Cable distribution system should be grounded (earthed) in accordance with ANSI/NFPA 70, the  
National Electrical Code (NEC), in particular Section 820.93, Grounding of Outer Conductive Shield  
of a Coaxial Cable.  
Lightning protection  
For added protection of any Gateway product during a lightning storm or when it is left  
unattended or unused for long periods of time, unplug the product from the wall outlet and  
disconnect the antenna or cable system.  
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Power lines  
Warning  
When installing or realigning an outside antenna system, extreme care  
should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits. Contact  
with them could be fatal.  
Do not locate the antenna near overhead light or power circuits, or where it could fall into such  
power lines or circuits.  
7
6
5
4
3
1
2
Antenna and satellite grounding  
Reference  
Grounding component  
1
2
Electric service equipment  
Power service grounding electrode system  
(NEC Art 250, Part H)  
3
4
5
6
7
Ground clamps  
Grounding conductors (NEC Section 810-21)  
Antenna discharge unit (NEC Section 810-20)  
Ground clamp  
Antenna lead-in wire  
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Environmental information  
The product you have purchased contains extracted natural resources that have been used in  
the manufacturing process. This product may contain substances known to be hazardous to  
the environment or to human health.  
To prevent releases of harmful substances into the environment and to maximize the use of our  
natural resources, Gateway provides the following information on how you can responsibly  
recycle or reuse most of the materials in your “end of life” product.  
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (commonly known as WEEE) should never  
be disposed of in the municipal waste stream (residential garbage collection). The  
“Crossed-Out Waste Bin” label affixed to this product is your reminder to dispose  
of your “end of life” product properly.  
Substances such as glass, plastics, and certain chemical compounds are highly  
recoverable, recyclable, and reusable. You can do your part for the environment  
by following these simple steps:  
•
•
When your electrical or electronic equipment is no longer useful to you, “take it back”  
to your local or regional waste collection administration for recycling.  
In some cases, your “end of life” product may be “traded in” for credit towards the  
purchase of new Gateway equipment. Call Gateway to see if this program is available  
in your area.  
•
If you need further assistance in recycling, reusing, or trading in your “end of life”  
product, you may contact us at the Customer Care number listed in your product’s  
user guide and we will be glad to help you with your effort.  
Finally, we suggest that you practice other environmentally friendly actions by understanding  
and using the energy-saving features of this product (where applicable), recycling the inner and  
outer packaging (including shipping containers) this product was delivered in, and by disposing  
of or recycling used batteries properly.  
With your help, we can reduce the amount of natural resources needed to produce electrical  
and electronic equipment, minimize the use of landfills for the disposal of “end of life” products,  
and generally improve our quality of life by ensuring that potentially hazardous substances are  
not released into the environment and are disposed of properly.  
Notices  
Copyright © 2007 Gateway, Inc.  
All Rights Reserved  
7565 Irvine Center Drive  
Irvine, CA 92618 USA  
All Rights Reserved  
This publication is protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of it may be  
reproduced or transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior consent in writing from  
Gateway.  
The information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate.  
However, changes are made periodically. These changes are incorporated in newer publication  
editions. Gateway may improve and/or change products described in this publication at any time.  
Due to continuing system improvements, Gateway is not responsible for inaccurate information  
which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates, consult the Gateway Web site  
at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special,  
exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this  
manual, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.  
In the interest of continued product development, Gateway reserves the right to make  
improvements in this manual and the products it describes at any time, without notices or  
obligation.  
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Trademark acknowledgments  
Gateway and the Black-and-White Spot Design are trademarks or registered trademarks of  
Gateway, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Intel, Intel Inside logo, and Pentium are registered  
trademarks and MMX is a trademark of Intel Corporation. Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, and Windows  
are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other product names  
mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and may be the trademarks or  
registered trademarks of their respective companies.  
Macrovision statement  
If your computer has a DVD-compatible drive and an analog  
TV Out port, the following paragraph applies:  
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims  
of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation  
and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by  
Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless  
otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is  
prohibited.  
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Index  
recording 28  
A
broadband  
AC power connector 10  
connection 15  
modem 15  
accessories  
safety precautions 141  
broadband connection  
activity indicators  
connecting  
9
See indicators  
buttons  
application buttons 21  
application key 20, 21  
arrow keys 20, 21  
audio  
See keys and buttons  
C
cable modem 15  
audio in jack  
9
connecting  
9
center speaker jack  
configuring jacks 32  
9
troubleshooting 115  
Caps Lock indicator 20, 21  
front speaker jack  
9
cards  
headphone jack  
9
adding expansion 74  
inserting memory card 29  
installing memory card 29  
removing memory card 29  
replacing expansion 74  
slots 28  
troubleshooting add-in  
card 107  
troubleshooting Ethernet  
line in jack  
9
line out jack  
9
microphone jack 7, 9  
muting 30  
rear speaker jack  
recording 28  
9
S/PDIF jack 10  
side speaker jack  
subwoofer jack  
9
9
106  
troubleshooting 122  
troubleshooting expansion  
107  
troubleshooting memory  
card 114  
types of memory cards  
audio CD  
cleaning 88  
audio in jack  
audio playback buttons 19, 21  
9
supported 29  
B
case  
backing up files 94  
closing 54  
opening 51  
battery  
replacing 57  
CD  
cleaning 88  
copying 28  
inserting 24  
playing audio 26  
recording 28  
troubleshooting 103  
bezel  
removing 53  
replacing 54  
BigFix 89  
Blu-ray  
6
playing 27  
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Index  
CD drive  
adding 59  
digital coaxial audio 10  
digital video camera 7, 9, 33  
DSL modem 15  
identifying 25  
locating drive  
replacing 59  
6
Ethernet 9, 15  
external audio  
9
See also optical drive  
troubleshooting 103  
external speakers  
9
Firewire 7, 9, 33  
front speaker  
9
cellular phone  
headphone  
9
memory cards 28  
i.Link 7, 9  
Certificate of Authenticity  
3
IEEE 1394 7, 9  
keyboard 7, 10  
cleaning  
audio CD 88  
case 86  
line in  
9
line out  
9
CD 88  
microphone 7, 9  
modem 10  
computer screen 87  
DVD 88  
monitor 10  
keyboard 87  
LCD panel 87  
mouse 87  
screen 87  
mouse 7, 9, 10  
network 9, 15  
parallel  
9
power 10  
cleaning CRT screen 87  
clicking 23  
clock speed 47  
power cord 10  
printer 7, 9, 10  
PS/2 keyboard 10  
PS/2 mouse  
9
closing  
rear speakers  
9
computer case 54  
front bezel 54  
scanner 7, 10  
serial 10  
unresponsive program 18  
CompactFlash 29  
side speaker  
9
subwoofer  
9
configuring  
universal aduio 32  
audio jacks 32  
speakers 32  
universal audio 122  
USB 7, 10  
connecting  
video camera 7, 9  
Zip drive 7, 10  
cable modem 15  
dial-up modem 16  
DSL modem 15  
PS/2 keyboard 10  
copying  
CDs and DVDs 28  
CrossFire video cards  
configuring 37  
PS/2 mouse  
to Ethernet network 9, 15  
to Internet  
to network 9, 15  
connections  
audio in  
cable modem 15  
9
connecting cards 36  
connecting multiple  
displays 37, 38  
9
CRT screen  
9
cleaning 87  
Customer Service  
Accounting 136  
Sales 136  
center speaker  
9
dial-up modem 16  
digital camera 7, 10, 33  
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Warranty 136  
recordable DVD 25  
troubleshooting 103, 105,  
108  
D
DSL modem 15  
default printer  
setting 120  
connecting  
9
troubleshooting 115  
defragmenting hard drive 93  
deleting files and folders 91  
dial-up modem 16  
adjusting volume 118  
diagnostics 117  
DVD  
cleaning 88  
copying 28  
drive 25  
inserting 24  
playing 27  
dialing properties 115  
troubleshooting 115  
troubleshooting connection  
speed 117  
recording 28  
troubleshooting 103, 105  
DVD drive  
digital audio out 10  
digital camera  
adding 59  
identifying 25  
locating serial port 10  
locating USB port 7, 10  
replacing 59  
See also optical drive  
troubleshooting 103, 105  
digital video camera  
locating IEEE 1394 port 7, 9  
DIMM  
E
See memory  
editing buttons 19, 21  
electrostatic discharge (ESD) 50  
ergonomics 12  
directional keys 20, 21  
Disk Cleanup 91  
Disk Defragmenter 93  
Error-checking 92  
display  
Ethernet jack  
9
cleaning 87  
troubleshooting 105  
Ethernet network  
connecting 15  
jack 15  
documentation  
User Guide  
2
expansion card  
double-clicking 23  
dragging 23  
adding 74  
replacing 74  
external audio jack  
drivers  
9
recovery discs 124, 127  
re-installing 123  
F
drives  
fan  
backing up files 94  
CD 25  
replacing 65, 67  
variable-speed 16  
checking for errors 92  
checking for free space 90  
defragmenting 93  
DVD 25  
faxes  
troubleshooting 117  
files  
backing up 94  
deleting 91  
finding 99  
optical 24  
recordable CD 25  
151  
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Index  
opening 23  
heat sink  
replacing 70  
Hibernate mode  
transferring 98  
troubleshooting 107  
types 98  
6
hot-swapping 33  
finding  
files 99  
I
files and folders 98  
IBM Microdrive 29  
Firewire port 7, 9, 33  
IEEE  
9
folders  
IEEE 1394 port 7, 9, 33  
indicators  
opening 23  
fragmentation 93  
Caps Lock 20, 21  
Num Lock 20, 21  
numeric keypad 20, 21  
Scroll Lock 20, 21  
front bezel  
removing 54  
replacing 54  
front I/O panel  
installing  
replacing 72  
battery 57  
function keys 19, 21  
CD drive 59  
devices 33  
G
digital camera 33  
digital video camera 33  
DVD drive 59  
Gateway  
contact information  
3
expansion card 74  
front bezel 53  
front fan 65  
model number  
serial number  
3
3
Support  
2
front I/O panel 72  
hard drive 62  
heat sink 70  
Gateway Recovery Center  
re-installing drivers 126  
re-installing programs 126  
re-installing software 126  
memory 55  
memory card reader 60  
peripheral devices 33  
power supply 69  
printer 33  
H
hard drive  
adding 62  
processor 70  
backing up files 94  
rear fan 67  
checking for errors 92  
checking for free space 90  
defragmenting 93  
scanner 33  
side panel 51  
system battery 57  
system board 76  
deleting files and folders 91  
replacing 62  
Internet  
scanning for errors 92  
buttons 19, 21  
troubleshooting 109, 116  
troubleshooting 108  
HD DVD drive  
HD-DVD  
6
J
playing 27  
jacks  
recording 28  
See connections  
headphone jack 7, 9  
152  
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www.gateway.com  
cleaning computer display  
K
87  
keyboard  
cleaning computer screen  
buttons 19, 20  
87  
cleaning 87  
cleaning DVD 88  
features 19, 20  
PS/2 port 10  
cleaning keyboard 87  
cleaning monitor 87  
cleaning mouse 87  
cleaning optical disc 88  
defragmenting 93  
deleting files 91  
troubleshooting 110  
USB port 7, 10  
keys and buttons  
application 20, 21  
arrow 20, 21  
extending computer life 85  
suggested schedule 84  
using Task Scheduler 96  
audio playback 19, 21  
directional 20, 21  
editing 19, 21  
function 19, 21  
Internet 19, 21  
mouse 22  
media reader  
See memory card reader  
memory  
adding 55  
navigation 20, 21  
numeric 20, 21  
sleep 21  
installing 55  
replacing 55  
troubleshooting 114  
Windows 20, 21  
memory card reader  
inserting card 29  
L
locating  
6
labels  
memory card types  
supported 29  
removing card 29  
replacing 60  
Microsoft Certificate of  
Authenticity  
3
model number  
serial number  
LCD panel  
cleaning 87  
troubleshooting 105  
lights  
See indicators  
line in jack  
3
3
using 28  
Memory Stick 29  
microphone jack 7, 9  
Microsoft Certificate of  
Authenticity  
3
model number  
modem  
cable 15  
3
9
line out jack  
9
connecting 16  
dial-up 16  
DSL 15  
M
maintenance  
backing up files 94  
BigFix 89  
checking for drive errors 92  
checking hard drive space  
90  
cleaning case 86  
cleaning CD 88  
jack 16  
modem jack 10  
monitor  
cleaning 87  
port 10  
setting up multiple 48  
troubleshooting 105  
153  
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Index  
mouse  
indicator 20, 21  
buttons 22  
changing settings 23  
cleaning 87  
clicking 23  
O
opening  
computer case 51  
double-clicking 23  
moving pointer 22, 23  
moving screen objects 23  
opening files, folders, and  
programs 23  
files 23  
folders 23  
front bezel 53  
programs 23  
shortcut menu 23  
pointer 22  
optical connection 10  
optical drive  
PS/2 port  
9
right-clicking 23  
eject button 24  
eject hole 24  
indicator 24  
inserting disc 24  
using 24  
scroll wheel 23  
selecting screen objects 23  
troubleshooting 119  
USB port 7, 10  
moving  
overclocking processor 47  
files from old computer 97,  
98  
pointer 22, 23  
screen objects 23  
settings from old computer  
97  
P
Pad Lock indicator 20, 21  
parallel port 9, 33  
password  
MP3 player  
troubleshooting 119  
memory cards 28  
PDA  
multimedia  
memory cards 28  
adjusting volume 30  
playing Blu-ray 27  
playing DVD 27  
peripheral devices 33  
playing  
audio CD 26  
Blu-ray Disc 27  
DVD 27  
playing HD-DVD 27  
using Windows Media  
Player 27  
HD-DVD 27  
MultiMediaCard 29  
muting sound 30  
Plug and Play devices  
IEEE 1394 support for 33  
USB support for 33  
N
pointer  
navigation keys 20, 21  
moving 22, 23  
network  
ports  
jack 9, 15  
See connections  
troubleshooting 106, 119  
power  
non-technical support  
Accounting 136  
Sales 136  
button  
6
connector 10  
Hibernate mode  
6
Warranty 136  
source problems 14  
numeric keypad 20, 21  
Standby/Resume  
6
154  
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www.gateway.com  
troubleshooting 120  
recording  
audio files 28  
optical discs 28  
turning off computer 17  
turning on computer 16  
power button  
6
recovering  
defaults 132  
power supply 15  
drivers 123  
replacing 69  
programs 123  
software 123  
printer  
installing 33  
parallel port  
system 122  
9
Windows 123  
setting default 120  
troubleshooting 120  
USB port 7, 10  
with Gateway Recovery  
Center 126  
with Windows DVD 133  
with Windows System  
Restore 129  
processor  
overclocking 47  
replacing 70  
recovery discs  
programs  
creating 124  
closing unresponsive 18  
opening 23  
drivers 124, 127  
programs 124, 127  
software 124, 127  
using 127  
recovery discs 124, 127  
re-installing 123  
PS/2 port  
keyboard 10  
mouse  
re-installing  
defaults 132  
9
drivers 123  
programs 122, 123  
software 122, 123  
Windows 122, 123  
with Gateway Recovery  
Center 126  
with Windows DVD 133  
with Windows System  
Restore 129  
R
RAID  
adding drive 46  
configuring 43  
creating volume 44  
deleting volume 45  
enabling 43  
help information 46  
preparing computer 43  
replacing drive 46  
resetting to non-RAID  
status 46  
removing files and folders 91  
resetting computer 18  
restarting computer 18  
restoring  
defaults 132  
setting up 39  
drivers 123  
RAID 0 39  
RAID 1 40  
RAID 10 41, 42  
RAID 5 41  
files from Recycle Bin 107  
programs 123  
software 123  
system 122  
Windows 123  
RAM  
with Gateway Recovery  
Center 126  
See memory  
rebooting computer 18  
with Windows DVD 133  
recordable drive  
6
155  
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with Windows System  
Restore 129  
sleep button 21  
sleep mode 17  
Resume mode  
6
using 18  
right-clicking 23  
SmartMedia 29  
software  
S
recovery discs 124, 127  
re-installing 123  
S/PDIF out 10  
sound  
safety  
adjusting 30  
controls 30  
muting 30  
avoiding repetitive strain  
14  
general precautions 140  
guidelines for  
troubleshooting 122  
speaker jack  
speakers  
9
troubleshooting  
102  
posture 14  
configuring 32  
reducing eye strain 13  
setting up computer 13  
sitting at computer 12, 14  
static electricity 50  
Standby mode  
6
starting  
computer 16  
programs 23  
scanner  
starting computer  
static electricity 50  
surge protector 14  
6
installing 33  
screen  
troubleshooting 105  
system battery  
screen objects  
replacing 57  
getting information 23  
moving 23  
system board  
replacing 76  
system identification label  
selecting 23  
3
Scroll Lock indicator 20, 21  
scroll wheel 23  
Secure Digital 29  
T
Task Schdeuler 96  
techinal support  
serial number  
3
serial port 10, 33  
Support  
2
setting up  
technical support  
safety precautions 140  
automated  
settings  
troubleshooting  
transferring 97, 98  
135  
shortcut menus  
Technical Support 136  
accessing 23  
tips before contacting 134  
tutorial service 136  
shortcuts  
opening menu 23  
telephone support 134  
shutting down computer 17, 18  
training  
side panel  
CD 137  
removing 51  
replacing 51  
classroom 137  
Gateway Learning Libraries  
156  
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www.gateway.com  
137  
Learn With Gateway 137  
turning on computer 6, 16  
tutoring  
transferring  
fee-based 136  
files from old computer 97,  
98  
U
settings from old computer  
uninterruptible power supply  
(UPS) 14  
97  
troubleshooting  
updating  
add-in cards 103, 107  
audio 122  
Windows 88  
UPS 14  
USB port 7, 10, 33  
automated system 135  
cable modem 115  
cards 103, 107  
CD drive 103, 105  
dial-up modem 115  
dial-up modem speed 117  
display 105  
V
video  
playing 27  
voltage  
DSL modem 115  
DVD drive 103, 105  
Ethernet network 106  
faxes 117  
checking selection 15  
selection switch 15  
volume  
adjusting 30  
adjusting dial-up modem  
118  
files 107  
general guidelines 102  
hard drive 108  
controls 30  
Internet connection 109,  
116  
muting 30  
troubleshooting 122  
keyboard 110  
LCD panel 105  
W
memory 114  
memory card reader 114  
monitor 105  
waking computer 17  
Windows  
mouse 119  
Product Key Code  
3
network 106, 119  
passwords 119  
power 120  
Windows Easy Transfer 97  
Windows key 20, 21  
Windows Media Center  
printer 120  
troubleshooting 111  
safety guidelines 102  
screen 105  
Windows System Restore 123  
creating restore point 131  
Windows Update 88  
screen area 105  
screen resolution 105  
sound 122  
wired Ethernet  
technical support 134  
telephone support 134  
Web site connection speed  
110  
troubleshooting 106  
working safely 12  
X
Windows Media Center 111  
xD 29  
turning off computer 6, 17, 18  
157  
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Index  
Z
Zip drive 94  
Zip drive port 10  
158  
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MAN BTX CONS REF GDE V R1 2/07  
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