Gateway Personal Computer FX542X User Manual
REFERENCE GUIDE  
®
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Contents  
Chapter 1: About This Reference . . . . . . . . . . . 1  
About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2  
Accessing your online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2  
Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3  
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3  
Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer. . . . . 5  
Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6  
Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8  
Video card ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11  
Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 13  
Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14  
Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15  
Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . . .15  
Sitting at your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16  
Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . .16  
Preparing power connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16  
Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . .16  
Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . . .17  
Connecting a dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17  
Starting your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18  
Waking up your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18  
Turning off your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19  
Restarting (rebooting) your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20  
Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21  
Premium multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21  
Elite multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22  
Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24  
Using optical drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26  
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26  
Loading an optical disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26  
Identifying optical drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27  
Playing discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28  
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Creating discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29  
Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30  
Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30  
Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30  
Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31  
Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33  
Installing a printer, scanner, or other device . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34  
Chapter 4: Advanced Hardware Setup . . . . . . 35  
Setting up dual video cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36  
Setting up multiple monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38  
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42  
Configuring RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43  
Getting help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44  
Chapter 5: Upgrading Your Computer. . . . . . . 45  
Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46  
Opening the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47  
Removing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47  
Removing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49  
Closing the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50  
Replacing the front bezel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50  
Replacing the side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50  
Adding or replacing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51  
Adding or replacing an optical disc drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53  
Replacing the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55  
Adding or replacing a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57  
Replacing the front fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59  
Replacing the rear fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62  
Replacing the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64  
Replacing the heat sink and processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65  
Replacing the I/O board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67  
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Adding or replacing an expansion card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69  
Replacing the system battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72  
Replacing the system board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73  
Chapter 6: Maintaining Your Computer . . . . . 81  
Setting up a maintenance schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82  
Caring for your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83  
Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84  
Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84  
Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85  
Cleaning the monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85  
Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85  
Cleaning optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86  
Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86  
Using BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87  
Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88  
Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88  
Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89  
Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90  
Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91  
Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92  
Scheduling maintenance tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94  
Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95  
Transferring files and settings automatically . . . . . . . . . .95  
Transferring files and settings manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96  
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99  
Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100  
Try these steps first . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100  
Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101  
Internet and networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102  
Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102  
Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103  
Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104  
Networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106  
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107  
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107  
Printing 108  
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Contents  
Optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109  
Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110  
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110  
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111  
Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111  
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113  
Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114  
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114  
Expansion cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115  
Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115  
Checking for device problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117  
Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118  
Creating recovery discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . 121  
Returning to a previous system condition . . . . . . . . . . . 122  
Returning your system to its factory condition . . . . . . 123  
Technical support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126  
Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126  
Calling Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126  
Appendix A: Legal Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127  
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137  
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CHAPTER1  
About This Reference  
• About this guide  
• Accessing your 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 your 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:  
•
•
•
•
•
•
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  
See your setup poster for Customer Care contact information.  
The label on the top of your computer contains information  
that identifies your computer model and serial number.  
Customer Care will need this information if you call for  
assistance.  
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 and  
USB port (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, or Blu-ray drive. For  
more information about your drive, see  
“Identifying optical drive types” on page 27.  
Additional drive  
bay  
Install any 5.25-inch device into this bay, such  
as an additional optical drive, a removable  
hard drive, or a system monitor display.  
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. For more  
information, see “Using the memory card  
reader” on page 30.  
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Component  
Icon  
Description  
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.  
®
IEEE 1394 ports  
Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire )  
devices (such as a digital camcorder) into these  
6-pin IEEE 1394 ports. For more information,  
see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other  
device” on page 34.  
USB ports  
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as  
a USB external drive, printer, scanner, camera,  
keyboard, or mouse) into these ports. For more  
information, see “Installing a printer, scanner,  
or other device” on page 34.  
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.  
Cover release lever  
Power connector  
Case cover thumbscrew  
Cable lock slot  
Center/Subwoofer jack  
Surround left/right jack  
S/PDIF (optical audio) jack  
Audio in/side speaker jack  
Microphone jack  
Headphone/Front speaker jack  
Ethernet (network) jacks  
USB ports  
IEEE 1394 port  
PS/2 mouse port  
PS/2 keyboard port  
Video card (number and  
type vary)  
Expansion slot cover  
thumbscrew  
Telephone jack (optional)  
Modem jack (optional)  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Cover release lever  
Lift this lever to open the computer cover.  
Remove this screw before opening the case.  
Case cover  
thumbscrew  
Cable 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.  
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Component  
Icon  
Description  
Surround left/right  
jack (black)  
Plug your rear right and left speakers into  
this jack. This jack is disabled when an audio  
expansion card is installed.  
For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 33.  
Audio in (Line in) jack  
(blue)  
This jack is user configurable for one of the  
following:  
■
-OR-  
Stereo in: Plug an external audio input  
Side speaker jack  
source (such as a stereo) into this jack so  
you can record sound on your computer  
(Default).  
■
Stereo out: Plug your side left and right  
speakers into this jack.  
This jack is disabled when an audio  
expansion card is installed. For more  
information, see “Configuring the audio  
jacks” on page 33.  
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 and “Connecting to a broadband  
modem or network” on page 17.  
PS/2 mouse port  
Plug a PS/2 mouse into this port.  
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.  
Center/subwoofer  
jack (orange)  
Plug your center speaker and subwoofer  
into this jack. This jack is disabled when an  
audio expansion card is installed.  
For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 33.  
S/PDIF output jack  
(optional)  
Plug an optical cable from an amplifier or  
entertainment system into this jack for  
digital sound.  
Microphone jack  
(pink)  
Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is  
disabled when an audio expansion card is  
installed.  
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Headphone/analog  
speakers jack (green)  
-OR-  
This jack is user configurable for one of the  
following:  
■
Headphone: Plug headphones or  
Front speakers jack  
amplified speakers into this jack  
(Default).  
Stereo out: Plug your front left and right  
■
speakers into this jack.  
This jack is disabled when an audio  
expansion card is installed. For more  
information, see “Configuring the audio  
jacks” on page 33.  
USB ports  
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such  
as a USB printer, scanner, camera, keyboard,  
or mouse) into these ports. For more  
information, see “Installing a printer,  
scanner, or other device” on page 34.  
®
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 34.  
PS/2 keyboard port  
Video card  
Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port.  
Plug a monitor into a port on this card. If the  
card is a high-performance video card, the  
expansion slot opening above the card may  
be occupied by the card’s ventilation fan.  
Modem jack  
(optional)  
Plug a modem cable into this jack. For more  
information, see “Connecting a dial-up  
modem” on page 17.  
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Video card ports  
S-Video out jack  
DVI ports  
If your computer came with high-end video cards installed  
(number and type may vary), you can connect multiple  
monitors for a multi-screen panel array, or you can enable the  
SLI connection between the two cards so that both cards work  
as a single card, delivering ultra-high frame rates for your  
single gaming monitor. For more information on configuring  
your cards, see “Setting up dual video cards” on page 36.  
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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
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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 monitor so the screen 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  
screen or shine directly into your eyes.  
•
Position the computer desk and monitor 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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Connecting to a broadband  
modem or network  
Important  
Your computer has 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 broadband (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.  
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 to 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, connect a telephone to the PHONE jack on  
the modem at the back of your computer.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
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. See the  
documentation that came with each device for its setup  
instructions.  
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.  
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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.  
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.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
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.  
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.  
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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, search for files, or launch your e-mail  
program.  
Audio playback  
buttons  
Press these buttons to play your audio files and  
to adjust the volume.  
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.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Feature  
Icon  
Description  
Indicators  
Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or  
SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the  
corresponding key to activate the function.  
Windows keys  
Application key  
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).  
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 screen. This illustration shows the standard mouse.  
As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the screen  
moves in the same direction.  
You can use the left and right buttons on the mouse to select  
objects on the screen.  
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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...  
Movethepointer  
on the screen  
Move the mouse around. If you  
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 screen  
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 screen.  
right-clicking.  
Move an object  
on the screen.  
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 screen.  
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 85.  
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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...  
Your drive type  
is...  
Use your drive for...  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, and accessing data.  
CD  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, accessing data, and  
creating CDs.  
CD-RW  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, accessing data,  
creating CDs, and playing DVDs.  
DVD/CD-RW  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs, and  
accessing data.  
DVD  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.  
DVD+RW  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and  
DVD-RW discs.  
DVD R/RW  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
double layer DVD+R discs.  
Note: To use the double layer  
capability of the double layer  
recordable DVD drive, the blank  
DVDs you purchase must state  
Double Layer, Dual Layer, or DL.  
Using other types of blank  
media will result in less  
Double layer  
DVD+RW  
capacity.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
If your optical drive has  
this logo...  
Your drive type  
is...  
Use your drive for...  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
accessing data, and recording  
video and data to CDs and  
DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW  
discs.  
DVD-RAM/-RW  
RECORDER  
Installing programs, playing  
audio CDs, playing DVDs,  
Blu-ray Disc  
playing Blu-ray Discs, accessing  
data, and recording video and  
data to CDs, DVD-RAM, DVD-R,  
DVD-RW, and Blu-ray 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.  
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.  
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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.  
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.  
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Using the memory card reader  
You can use the optional memory card reader to transfer  
pictures from a digital camera to your computer. You can also  
use the memory card reader to transfer data between your  
computer and a device that uses memory cards, such as a PDA,  
MP3 player, or cellular telephone. (Your computer’s memory  
card reader may look different.)  
Memory card reader slots  
Activity indicator  
Memory card types  
The memory card reader supports several memory card types.  
To determine which types are supported by your card reader  
and 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.  
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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.  
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 21.  
To adjust the volume from Windows:  
Click (Volume) on the taskbar. The volume control  
slider opens.  
1
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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
2
3
4
Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and down  
to decrease volume.  
To mute the volume, click  
click it again.  
(Mute). To restore volume,  
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 × 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 adjusting volume in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
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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. For a description of the default  
audio jack setup, see “Back” on page 8.  
Important  
If an audio expansion card is installed in your computer, then the  
computer’s built-in audio jacks are disabled.  
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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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
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 IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire®) ports  
and Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports. 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 installing devices in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
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CHAPTER4  
Advanced Hardware Setup  
• Setting up dual video cards  
• Setting up multiple monitors  
• Setting up RAID  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
Setting up dual video cards  
If your computer has two high-end graphics cards installed,  
you can enable the SLI connection between two cards so that  
both cards work as a single card, delivering ultra-high frame  
rates for a single gaming monitor.  
To set up the single-monitor SLI connection:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Opening the case” on page 47.  
2
Verify that you have multiple SLI video cards installed in  
your computer and that the SLI bridge cable is  
connecting the two. If you ordered the computer with  
two graphics cards, the bridge cable is already installed.  
SLI bridge cable  
3
4
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Closing the case” on page 50.  
Connect your monitor to the upper right DVI port.  
DVI port for single monitor  
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5
Right-click on the Windows desktop, then click NVIDIA  
Control Panel. The NVIDIA Control Panel View Selection  
dialog box opens (this dialog box opens only the first  
time that you open the NVIDIA Control Panel).  
6
Click Advanced Settings, then click OK. The NVIDIA  
Control Panel opens.  
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7
In the Select a Task list on the left side of the control  
panel, under 3D Settings, click Set SLI configuration.  
The Set SLI Configuration screen opens.  
8
Click Enable SLI technology (recommended), then  
click Apply. If the Applications Shutdown Required  
message box opens, click Yes.  
A message appears on the screen notifying you that SLI  
is enabled.  
Setting up multiple monitors  
If your computer came with a high-end graphics card installed  
(number and type may vary), you can connect multiple  
monitors for a multi-screen panel array. To set up multiple  
monitors, see the “Customizing Windows” chapter in your  
online User Guide.  
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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 is called striping.  
In the following graphic, each letter represents a unique block  
of data, and each column represents a separate hard drive.  
RAID 0  
A
C
E
B
D
F
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
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.  
In the following graphic, 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.  
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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.  
In the following graphic, each letter represents a unique block  
of data, and the number next to each letter represents which  
copy of the data files are stored on that drive. 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  
mirrored array.  
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In the following graphic, 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.  
Preparing your computer for RAID  
Setting up RAID on your computer can involve two major steps,  
depending on how your computer has been configured.  
Important  
If your computer came from the factory with RAID already set up, your  
computer is ready to use, and you do not need to perform any of these steps.  
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 from the Windows disc that  
came with your computer.  
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Configuring RAID  
Creating a RAID volume  
Because RAID can be configured so many ways, this procedure  
covers only the basics. This procedure assumes that no RAID  
has been defined yet.  
To create a RAID volume:  
1
2
3
Install additional hard drives as needed for your RAID  
plan. For instructions on installing hard drives, see  
“Adding or replacing a hard drive” on page 57.  
Start (or restart) your computer, then press F9 during  
startup. The MediaShield Utility (RAID setup) screen  
opens.  
To create a new array, set RAID Mode to Striping (for  
RAID 0), then select drives on the left and click Add to  
add the drives to the array.  
4
5
6
Press F7, then press Y. The new array is created.  
Press CTRL+X to exit the utility. Your computer restarts.  
Install the operating system from the Windows disc that  
came with your computer.  
Deleting a RAID volume  
Deleting a RAID volume deletes all files on that volume,  
including operating system files. Before deleting a RAID  
volume, make sure that all important files have been  
backed up.  
To delete a RAID volume:  
1
Start (or restart) your computer, then press F9 during  
startup. The MediaShield Utility (RAID setup) screen  
opens.  
2
Press the arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you  
want to delete, then press ENTER. The Array Detail screen  
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 into Windows.  
3
Press D to delete the array. In this screen, you can also  
press C to clear (delete all data from) the array.  
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CHAPTER 4: Advanced Hardware Setup  
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) or use an  
Internet search engine to search for:  
•
•
•
•
RAID  
configuring RAID  
RAID tutorials  
RAID levels  
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CHAPTER5  
Upgrading Your Computer  
• Preventing static electricity discharge  
• Opening the case  
• Closing the case  
• Adding or replacing memory  
• 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 battery  
• Replacing the system board  
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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 46.  
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 (if any) on the rear edge of the  
side panel.  
Remove the case cover thumbscrew on the side panel.  
Thumbscrew  
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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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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 47.  
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
Find the memory module banks on your system board.  
DIMM 3  
DIMM 1  
DIMM 2  
DIMM 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.  
5
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 snap into place to secure the memory  
module.  
Caution  
Make sure that you install modules of the same type into both slots  
of a memory channel (bank).  
6
7
Return your computer to its upright position.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
8
Reconnect the cables and the power cord.  
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9
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.  
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 47.  
2
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 49.  
Important  
The color and shape of your replacement drive's front cover may  
vary from your original drive.  
3
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.  
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CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer  
4
Remove the drive thumbscrew from the optical drive.  
Drive thumbscrew  
5
Slide the drive release latch toward the back of the  
computer to release the drive.  
6
Slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay.  
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7
8
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.  
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 50.  
11 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
Replacing the memory card  
reader  
To replace the memory card reader:  
1
2
3
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 47.  
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 49.  
Disconnect the memory card reader cables, noting their  
locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables  
after you install the new memory card reader.)  
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4
Remove the thumbscrew holding the card reader in the  
drive bay.  
Thumbscrew  
5
6
Slide the card reader out of the case.  
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 50.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
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Adding or replacing a  
hard drive  
To add or replace a hard drive:  
1
2
3
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 47.  
Slide the drive slot’s release latch toward you to unlock  
it (or it may already be unlocked).  
If you are adding a new drive, go to Step 6.  
- OR -  
If you are replacing an existing drive, go to the next step.  
4
Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and  
orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new drive.)  
SATA power cable  
SATA data cable  
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5
Remove the hard drive by sliding it out of the drive bay.  
6
7
Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then secure it in  
the drive bay by sliding the drive release latch back.  
If you are replacing a drive, reconnect the drive cables  
using your notes from Step 4. 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 for SATA port  
assignments:  
SATA 6 port  
SATA 5 port  
SATA 4 port  
SATA 3 port  
SATA 1 port  
SATA 2 port  
8
9
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
10 Turn on your computer.  
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11 If you installed a new primary drive:  
•
Format and partition the drive according to the  
manufacturer’s instructions.  
•
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 118.  
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 47.  
2
Remove the fan cover by holding cables out of the way  
and pulling the cover away from the computer.  
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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.  
Front fan connector  
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
Slide the old fan out of the fan mount.  
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6
7
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.  
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 50.  
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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 47.  
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.  
Rear fan connector  
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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 50.  
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 and a Torx or “star” driver (size T15) to  
replace the power supply. A slotted (flat) screwdriver can be used in place of the  
Torx driver, but it must be the 7/64" (3 mm) size, and you must be very careful  
while applying torque so that the screw head does not get stripped.  
To replace the power supply:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 47. Make sure that  
you disconnect the power cable.  
2
Disconnect the power supply cables from all  
components (such as hard drives, optical and diskette  
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 Phillips screws that secure the power  
supply to the power supply bracket.  
Phillips screws  
Torx  
screws  
4
Use a Torx (“star”) T15 driver to remove the two Torx  
screws that secure the power supply bracket to the  
computer, then slide the bracket down and off the  
computer.  
5
6
7
Slide the power supply and cables out the back of the  
computer.  
Insert the new power supply and cables into the case  
through the opening in the back of the computer.  
Slide the power supply bracket into place, then secure it  
into place using the two Torx screws you removed  
previously.  
8
Secure the power supply to the power supply bracket  
using the three Phillips screws you removed previously.  
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9
Reconnect the power supply cables using your notes  
from Step 2.  
10 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
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 47.  
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 holding cables out of the way  
and pulling the cover away from the computer.  
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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  
Screws  
5
Release the processor by pushing down on the lever,  
then lifting the lever completely up.  
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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
9
Wipe the old thermal paste off the bottom of the heat  
sink, then apply a new bead of thermal paste about the  
size of half a pea.  
Place the heat sink on the system board, then tighten the  
screws that secure it to the system board.  
10 Replace the fan cover.  
11 Return your computer to its upright position.  
12 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
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
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 47.  
2
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 49.  
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3
Remove the screw that secures the front I/O assembly  
to the computer, then remove the I/O assembly.  
Screw  
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
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 50, then replace the  
side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the  
side panel” on page 50.  
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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 47.  
Important  
Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary  
from the illustrations below.  
2
Loosen the thumbscrew on the expansion card cover.  
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3
Open the expansion card cover.  
4
5
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.)  
Graphics card power cables  
(high-end cards only)  
SLI bridge cable  
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6
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.  
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:  
PCI  
PCIe×16  
PCI  
PCIe×16  
PCI  
8
9
Reconnect the expansion card cables (if any) using your  
notes from Step 5, or, if you are adding a new card,  
follow the manufacturers instructions.  
Tighten the thumbscrew on the expansion card 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 50.  
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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 F2 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 47.  
6
7
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
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  
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8
9
Pry the battery out of the socket.  
Caution  
Make sure that you do not damage any nearby components while  
prying the battery out of its 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 50.  
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 3.  
16 Save all your settings and exit the BIOS Setup utility.  
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 47.  
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
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 69. You can slightly seesaw a card end-to-end  
to loosen it, but do not bend a card sideways.  
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5
Remove the fan cover by holding cables out of the way  
and pulling the cover away from the computer.  
6
7
Find the memory module banks on your system board.  
Gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the  
memory modules, then remove them.  
Caution  
The heat sink has thermal paste located on the bottom of it. Use  
caution when you remove the old heat sink so you do not damage the  
thermal paste. If you damage the thermal paste, you must apply a new  
bead of paste to the heat sink when re-installing it.  
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8
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  
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.  
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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.  
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.  
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17 Connect the power and data cables using your notes  
from Step 9, or use the following graphic as a guide..  
AUX power  
IDE  
Power  
Fan (rear)  
Front panel audio  
SATA 6  
SATA 5  
SATA 4  
SATA 3  
SATA 1  
SATA 2  
Fan  
IEEE1394  
IEEE1394  
Front USB  
Card reader  
(Front)  
Fan  
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. For more  
details, see “Adding or replacing an expansion card” on  
page 69.  
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21 Reconnect the expansion card cables using your notes  
from Step 3.  
22 Install the fan cover by following the directions in  
“Replacing the heat sink and processor” on page 65.  
23 Return your computer to its upright position.  
24 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 50.  
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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 screen 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 may be installed on your computer. 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 Options  
dialog box opens.  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
2
3
Click one of the options:  
•
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 Options dialog box opens.  
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 disk  
cleanup 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 checking for disk  
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 defragmenting 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.  
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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 backup in the Search Help box, then press  
ENTER.  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
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 schedulerin the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
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Moving from your old  
computer  
Transferring files and settings automatically  
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 transferring files in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
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 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 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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CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer  
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CHAPTER7  
Troubleshooting  
• Safety guidelines  
• Try these steps first  
• Error messages  
• Internet and networking  
• Power  
• Display  
• Printing  
• Optical discs  
• Memory card reader  
• Mouse  
• Keyboard  
• Files  
• Memory  
• Audio  
• Passwords  
• Expansion cards  
• Media Center  
• Checking for device problems  
• Recovering your system  
• Technical support  
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Safety guidelines  
While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety  
guidelines:  
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.  
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 34.  
Try these steps first  
If you have problems with your computer, try these things first:  
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.  
•
•
Check all cable connections, including power.  
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 troubleshooting in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
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Error messages  
Error message  
Action  
“Insufficient disk  
space”  
See “You get an “Insufficient disk space”  
error message” on page 111.  
“Data error”  
See “You get a “Data error” message” on  
page 112.  
“General failure  
reading drive C”  
See “The hard drive cannot be accessed,  
or you see a “General failure reading drive  
C” error message” on page 112.  
“Operating system  
not found”  
See “You get an “Operating system not  
found” error message” on page 112.  
“Unable to locate  
host”  
See “You see an “Unable to locate host”  
message and are unable to browse the  
Internet” on page 102.  
“Download Error”  
“Memory error”  
See “You get a “Download Error” message  
when Media Center tries to update the  
Program Guide” on page 116.  
See “You see a “Memory error” message”  
on page 113.  
“Not enough  
memory”  
See “You see a “Not enough memory”  
error message” on page 114.  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
Internet and networking  
Internet  
If you do not find a solution to your problem in this section,  
the issue may be networking related. See “Networking” on  
page 106 for more information.  
You cannot connect to the Internet  
•
If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that  
the modem cable is securely plugged into the Ethernet  
network jack. See more troubleshooting at “Modem  
(cable or DSL)” on page 103.  
- OR -  
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 more troubleshooting at  
“Modem (dial-up)” on page 104.  
•
•
Make sure that your account with your Internet service  
provider (ISP) is set up correctly. For help, contact your  
ISP technical support.  
Your ISP may be having connection problems. Contact  
your ISP technical support to determine whether the  
Internet outage is widespread (a problem they are trying  
to solve).  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting Internet  
connections, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type  
troubleshooting connections in the Search Help box, then press  
ENTER.  
You see an “Unable to locate host” message and are unable  
to browse the Internet  
•
You may have typed the URL (Web address) incorrectly.  
Check the URL, then enter it again, or try a different URL.  
•
Your Web browser may be experiencing problems. Close  
your Web browser, then restart it. If that does not allow  
you to connect, restart your computer.  
•
•
The problem may be with your network, not the Internet  
itself. Check your network cables and network devices  
(such as switches, routers, and hubs).  
Your ISP may be having connection problems. Contact  
your ISP technical support to determine whether the  
Internet outage is widespread (a problem they are trying  
to solve).  
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People are sending you e-mails, but you have not received  
them  
•
Click the Receive or Send and Receive button in your  
e-mail program. This checks your mail server for  
incoming e-mail.  
•
Make sure that your account with your Internet service  
provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP for  
technical support.  
E-mails you send are returned as undeliverable  
•
Check the spelling of the e-mail address you are sending  
e-mail to. A valid e-mail address consists of a user name,  
the @ symbol, and the Internet domain name of the  
Internet service provider (ISP) or company that “hosts”  
that user. E-mail addresses never contain spaces and are  
not case-sensitive.  
•
If possible, contact the intended recipient by using  
another method, then ask them to verify their e-mail  
address.  
Modem (cable or DSL)  
My computer cannot connect to the Internet.  
•
•
•
Make sure that your modem is connected to the network  
jack.  
See the documentation that came with your modem for  
additional troubleshooting information.  
Contact your modem manufacturer for technical  
support.  
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Modem (dial-up)  
See also “Internet and networking” on page 102.  
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 or the PHONE network  
jack.  
•
•
Make sure that your computer is connected to the  
telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone.  
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.  
•
•
Make sure that call waiting is disabled before using the  
modem. Contact your telephone service provider to get  
the correct code to temporarily disable the service.  
Make sure that the modem dialing properties are set  
correctly.  
To check the dialing properties:  
1
2
Click  
(Start), type modem, then press ENTER.  
If the Location Information dialog box opens, enter  
the information for your area, then click OK.  
3
4
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 dialing in the Search Help box, then  
press ENTER.  
•
•
Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping  
sounds), which is a common problem that can cause the  
modem to connect at a slower rate, interrupt downloads,  
or even disconnect. 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.  
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You cannot connect to the Internet  
•
The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact your  
ISP for technical support.  
•
Review the troubleshooting information under “Internet  
and networking” on page 102.  
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.  
The modem is not recognized by your computer  
•
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.  
•
•
Restart your computer.  
Run Windows modem diagnostics.  
To run modem diagnostics:  
1
2
3
Click  
(Start), type modem, then press ENTER.  
Click the Modems tab, then click Properties.  
Click the Diagnostics 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 modem troubleshooting in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
The modem is noisy when it dials and connects  
To turn down the modem volume:  
1
2
Click  
(Start), type modem, then press ENTER.  
Click the Modems tab, then click Properties.  
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3
4
Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker  
volume control.  
Click OK twice to close the dialog boxes.  
Networking  
For more information, see the Networking chapter in your  
User Guide.  
You cannot see the other computers on your network  
•
If a network cable is connected to your computer, make  
sure that the other end is plugged into a network router,  
switch, hub, or other network device.  
•
•
Make sure that the other computers are turned on.  
If you are using a router, make sure that it is turned on.  
Most routers have lights that indicate they are working.  
For more information, see your router’s documentation.  
•
•
•
If you are using a router, restart it by unplugging it from  
power for five seconds.  
Make sure that all computers on your network have the  
same workgroup name and 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.  
Your wired network is running slower than you expect  
•
If your network is running slower than you expect, check  
the speed of each component. For best results, all  
components should be standard Ethernet (10 Mbps),  
Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet  
(1000 Mbps). Components comprising a mixture of those  
speeds will result in your network running at the speed  
of the slowest component.  
•
For more troubleshooting help, see the documentation  
for your network components.  
Help  
For more information about network troubleshooting, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type network troubleshooting in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
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Power  
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 power cables are  
connected to a power strip, make sure it is turned on.  
•
•
Test the outlet by plugging in a working device, such as  
a lamp.  
Make sure that the power cord is free from cuts or  
damage, and replace any damaged cables.  
Display  
The screen resolution is not correct  
•
Change the screen resolution in Windows. For  
instructions, see your online User Guide.  
The computer is on, but there is no picture  
•
Make sure that the computer is not in Standby  
(power-saving) mode.  
•
Make sure that the monitor is connected to a power  
outlet and to a video port on your computer, then make  
sure that the monitor is turned on. If the monitor is on,  
its power LED should be on.  
•
Adjust the monitor’s brightness and contrast controls.  
For more information, see the monitor’s documentation.  
•
•
Check the video cable for bent or damaged pins.  
Connect a display that you know works (such as a  
monitor from another computer) to your computer. If the  
display still works, the original monitor is faulty. If the  
display does not work, either the computer’s video card  
(if installed) is faulty or the on-board video is faulty.  
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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 instructions, see 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 screen resolution in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
Printing  
The printer will not turn on  
•
Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an  
AC power source.  
The printer is on but will not print  
•
Make sure that the Print to file box is not checked in  
the Print dialog box.  
•
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), type printer, then press ENTER.  
Control Panel opens and lists available printers.  
2
Right-click the printer you want to be the default  
printer, then click Set as Default Printer.  
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•
•
•
Reinstall the printer driver. See your printer’s user guide  
for instructions.  
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 on adding  
additional memory.  
•
Contact your printer manufacturer’s technical support.  
Help  
For more information about printer troubleshooting, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type printer troubleshooter in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
Optical discs  
Optical discs include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.  
The computer does not recognize a disc or the disc drive  
•
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, and make sure  
that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For  
information on cleaning the disc, see “Cleaning optical  
discs” on page 56.  
•
•
Update the device driver. For instructions, see “Checking  
for device problems” on page 117.  
Your computer may be experiencing some temporary  
memory problems. Restart your computer.  
An audio disc does not produce sound  
•
Make sure that the Windows volume controls are turned  
up (and mute is turned off) and that any attached  
speakers are turned on and connected correctly.  
•
Make sure that the disc is label side up, and make sure  
that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For  
information on cleaning the disc, see “Cleaning optical  
discs” on page 56.  
A movie disc will not play  
•
Make sure that the disc is label side up, and make sure  
that the disc is clean and free from large scratches. For  
information on cleaning the disc, see “Cleaning optical  
discs” on page 56.  
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•
The regional code of the movie disc may not match your  
drive’s regional code. Play only discs with a regional code  
for your region. The DVD regional code for the United  
States and Canada is 1, and the regional code for Mexico  
is 4. The Blu-ray regional code for North and South  
America is A, although many (if not most) Blu-ray movies  
are region-free.  
•
•
Update the device driver. For instructions, see “Checking  
for device problems” on page 117.  
Your computer may be experiencing some temporary  
memory problems. Restart your computer.  
Memory card reader  
Drive letters for the memory card slots do not appear in the  
Computer window  
•
The memory card reader may have been temporarily  
uninstalled using the Remove Hardware icon in the  
system tray. Restart your computer, and it will recognize  
the card reader again.  
Mouse  
The mouse does not work  
•
•
•
Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly.  
Restart your computer.  
Try a mouse you know is working to make sure that the  
mouse port works.  
The mouse works erratically  
•
Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean,  
damp cloth. Make sure that the optical sensor is clean  
and free of debris.  
•
You may be using the mouse on a transparent, reflective,  
metallic, or glossy surface. Your mouse uses optical  
sensors that do not work correctly on these surfaces. Use  
a mouse pad or a surface with a non-glossy texture, such  
as fabric.  
•
The mouse pad may have a printed or fabric pattern on  
it that interferes with your mouse. Use a different mouse  
pad.  
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Keyboard  
The keyboard does not work  
•
Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in  
correctly.  
•
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.  
Liquid spilled in the keyboard  
•
Turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard. Wipe  
off the keyboard, turn the keyboard upside down to  
drain any remaining liquid, then blow the inside dry with  
a can of compressed air. Let the keyboard dry for several  
hours before using it again. If the keyboard does not  
work after it dries, you may need to replace it.  
Files  
You get an “Insufficient disk space” error message  
•
Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk  
Cleanup. For instructions, see “Deleting unnecessary  
files” on page 59.  
Help  
For more information about file management, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type file management 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.  
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A file was accidentally deleted  
•
If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key,  
or if the Recycle Bin has been emptied since the file was  
deleted, 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.  
Help  
For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type System Restore in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
You get 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 113.  
The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you see a “General  
failure reading drive C” error message  
•
If your computer has been subjected to static electricity  
or physical shock, you may need to reinstall the  
operating system. See “Recovering your system” on  
page 118.  
You get an “Operating system not found” error message  
•
•
•
Your computer is unable to detect the hard drive. Check  
cable connections. For instructions on opening your  
computer case, see “Opening the case” on page 35.  
A USB flash drive or a USB portable music player is  
connected to one of your computer’s USB ports. Unplug  
the USB device, then restart your computer.  
Your hard drive has no operating system installed on it,  
or the operating system files cannot be recognized  
because they have become corrupted or erased. See  
“Recovering your system” on page 118.  
You need to restore your computer to a working condition  
See “Recovering your system” on page 118.  
•
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Checking the hard drive for errors  
Use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive problems.  
Error-checking examines the hard drive for file and folder  
problems, then corrects the data problems that it finds.  
To check the hard drive for errors:  
1
2
3
Click  
(Start) then click Computer. The Computer  
window opens.  
Right-click the drive that you want to check for errors,  
click Properties, then click the Tools tab.  
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.  
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 checking for disk  
errors in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Memory  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting memory errors, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type memory error in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
You see a “Memory error” message  
•
Run the Memory Diagnostic Tool. Click  
(Start), type  
Memory Diagnostic Tool, then press ENTER. Click  
Restart now and check for problems. Your computer  
restarts and runs the memory diagnostics.  
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You see a “Not enough memory” error message  
•
•
Close all programs, then restart your computer.  
If you continue to receive this error message, consider  
adding more memory to your computer.  
Audio  
You are not getting sound from the speakers  
•
Make sure that the volume controls are turned up and  
not muted. For more information, see “Adjusting the  
volume” on page 28.  
•
If you are using external speakers:  
•
Make sure that the speakers are turned on, and check  
the speaker connections. See your speakers’ user  
guide for more troubleshooting tips.  
•
Make sure that your computer’s universal audio jacks  
are configured correctly. For more information, see  
“Configuring the audio jacks” on page 30.  
•
If you are trying to play an audio disc, see “Optical discs”  
on page 109.  
Help  
For more information about sound troubleshooting, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type sound troubleshooter in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
Passwords  
Your computer does not accept your password  
•
Windows passwords are case-sensitive. Make sure that  
CAPS LOCK is turned off, then retype the password.  
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Expansion cards  
The computer does not recognize an expansion card  
•
•
Restart your computer.  
Make sure that you have installed the required software.  
For more information, see your expansion card’s  
documentation.  
•
Remove the card from your computer’s expansion slot,  
then reinstall the card.  
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.  
Help  
For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type Media Center in the Search Help box, then press  
ENTER.  
The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV  
Many factors can significantly affect the video quality:  
•
Cable connections—Loose cables can lower video  
quality. Check all cable connections.  
•
Display type—The Media Center is best viewed on  
computer displays. Other types of display devices,  
including TVs, may provide lower quality video.  
•
•
Type of connection used—The connection type has an  
affect on the video quality. Your computer has one or  
more video outputs. Use the highest quality output your  
TV and computer supports:  
•
•
A/V cables (basic)  
S-Video (fair, but not optimized for computer video  
display)  
•
•
•
VGA (good)  
DVI (better)  
HDMI (best)  
Quality of video cables—Poor quality video cables can  
cause problems. Gateway recommends using  
high-quality video cables.  
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•
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 your online User Guide.  
•
•
Age of the TV—Newer TVs usually have more advanced  
features, produce a better quality picture, and support  
higher screen resolutions.  
Type of TV  
•
•
CRT TVs may have a slight flicker.  
Plasma TVs may experience image burn-in after  
extended use.  
•
LCD TVs use the same technology as your computer’s  
flat panel display.  
You want to change monitor settings to get better TV or  
DVD image quality  
•
Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and  
saturation. For more information, 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. For more information, see the Media Center online  
help.  
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 computer is  
connected to the Internet. For information about  
manually updating the Program Guide, see the Media  
Center online help.  
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Checking for device problems  
Faulty devices or corrupt device drivers can cause a variety of  
problems on your computer. Checking the condition of system  
devices and the status of their drivers can help pinpoint the  
problem.  
To check for device problems:  
1
Click  
(Start), type device manager, then press  
ENTER. Device Manager opens.  
2
Examine the list of computer device types. A device type  
with problems have a yellow triangle or red octogon  
indicating a problem or a failed condition.  
3
4
Click the + symbol to the left of the device type to expand  
the list of devices. The faulty device is marked with a  
yellow (problems) or red (failed) icon.  
To update the device driver (a common solution to many  
device problems), right-click the device, click Update  
Driver Software, then click Search automatically for  
updated driver software and follow the on-screen  
prompts.  
- OR -  
To check for specific problems, right-click the device,  
then click Properties and examine the information  
within each of the tabs. Write down this information for  
future reference and troubleshooting. It may also be  
useful information to have available if you call Customer  
Care.  
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Recovering your system  
You can solve most computer problems by following the  
information in “Try these steps first” on page 100 or in the  
technical support pages at www.gateway.com. Problem  
solving may also involve reinstalling 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 recovery discs as soon as possible. Recovery discs take some  
time to create, but for long-term reliability, the effort is worth it. For instructions,  
see “Creating recovery discs” on page 119.  
To recover your system:  
1
Create recovery discs as soon as you can.  
You can use these discs later for recovering your system  
from significant hardware and software problems. For  
instructions, see “Creating recovery discs” on page 119.  
2
Perform minor fixes.  
If only one or two items of software or hardware have  
stopped working correctly, the problem may be solved  
by reinstalling the software or the device drivers. To  
recover software and drivers that were pre-installed at  
the factory, see “Recovering pre-installed software and  
drivers” on page 121. For instructions on reinstalling  
software and drivers that were not pre-installed, see  
that product’s documentation or technical support Web  
site.  
3
4
Revert to a previous system condition.  
If reinstalling 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 “Returning to a previous system  
condition” on page 122.  
Reset your system to its factory condition.  
If nothing else has solved the problem and you want to  
reset your system to factory condition, see “Returning  
your system to its factory condition” on page 123.  
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Creating recovery discs  
If your computer experiences problems that are not  
recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall the  
Windows operating system and factory-loaded software and  
drivers. To reinstall using discs, you must create the set of  
recovery discs beforehand.  
To create recovery discs:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click  
Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery  
Management opens.  
2
To create recovery discs for the hard drive’s entire  
original contents, including Windows Vista and all  
factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create  
factory default disc.  
- OR -  
To create recovery discs for only the factory-loaded  
software and drivers, click Create driver and  
application backup disc.  
Important  
We recommend that you create each type of recovery disc as soon  
as possible.  
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The Create Backup Disc dialog box opens.  
This dialog box tells you the number of blank, recordable  
discs you will need to complete the recovery discs. Make  
sure that you have the required number of identical,  
blank discs ready before continuing.  
3
Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the Burn to  
list, then click Next. The first disc begins recording, and  
you can watch its progress on the screen.  
When the disc finishes recording, the drive ejects it.  
4
5
Remove the disc from the drive and mark it with a  
permanent marker.  
Important  
Write a unique, descriptive label on each disc, such as “Windows  
Recovery Disc 1 of 2.” or “Apps/Drivers Recovery disc.”  
If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc when  
prompted, then click OK. Continue recording discs until  
the process is complete.  
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Recovering pre-installed software and drivers  
As a troubleshooting step, you may need to reinstall the  
software and device drivers that came pre-installed on your  
computer from the factory. You can recover using either your  
hard drive or the backup discs you have created.  
•
New software—If you need to recover software that did  
not come pre-installed on your computer, you need to  
follow that software’s installation instructions.  
•
New device drivers—If you need to recover device  
drivers that did not come pre-installed on your  
computer, follow the instructions for updating drivers in  
“Checking for device problems” on page 117.  
To recover your pre-installed software and drivers:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click  
Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery  
Management opens.  
- OR -  
If you are recovering from your driver and application  
recovery disc, insert it into the disc drive, then go to  
Step 3 after the Gateway Application Recovery main  
menu opens.  
2
Click the Restore tab, then click Reinstall  
applications/drivers. The Gateway Application  
Recovery main menu opens.  
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3
4
Click Contents. A list of software and device drivers  
opens.  
Click the install icon  
for the item you want to install,  
then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the  
installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to  
reinstall.  
Returning to a previous system condition  
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.  
Help  
For more information about using Microsoft System Restore, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type windows system restore in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
To return to a restore point:  
1
Click  
(Start), Control Panel, System and  
Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center.  
The Backup and Restore Center opens.  
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2
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.  
Returning your system to its factory condition  
In case your computer experiences problems that are not  
recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall  
everything to return your system to its factory condition. You  
can reinstall using either your hard drive or the recovery discs  
you have created.  
Caution  
This complete recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then  
reinstalls Windows and all software and drivers that were pre-installed on your  
system. If you can access important files on your hard drive, back them up now.  
•
•
If you can still run Windows Vista, see “Recovering from  
within Windows Vista” on page 124.  
If you cannot run Windows Vista and your original hard  
drive is still working, see “Recovering from the hard drive  
during startup” on page 125.  
•
If you cannot run Windows Vista and your original hard  
drive has been completely re-formatted or you have  
installed a replacement hard drive, see “Recovering from  
your recovery discs” on page 125.  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
Recovering from within Windows Vista  
To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software  
and drivers:  
1
2
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click  
Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery  
Management opens.  
Click the Restore tab, then click Restore system to  
factory default. The Confirm Restoration dialog box  
opens.  
3
Click Yes, then click Start. A dialog box displays  
information about the hard drive that the operating  
system will be recovered to.  
Caution  
Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.  
4
Click OK. The recovery process begins by restarting your  
computer, then continues by copying files to your hard  
drive. This process may take a while, but a Gateway  
Recovery Management screen shows you its progress.  
When the recovery has finished, a dialog box prompts  
you to restart your computer.  
5
6
Click OK. Your computer restarts.  
Follow the on-screen prompts for first-time system  
setup.  
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Recovering from the hard drive during startup  
To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software  
and drivers:  
1
2
Turn on your computer, then press ALT+F10 during  
startup. Gateway Recovery Management opens.  
Click Restore system from factory default.  
Caution  
Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.  
3
Click Next to continue. Your hard drive’s original,  
factory-loaded contents are recovered. This process will  
take several minutes.  
Recovering from your recovery discs  
To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software  
and drivers:  
1
Turn on your computer, insert the first system recovery  
disc into your optical disc drive, then restart your  
computer.  
Caution  
Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.  
2
3
4
During startup, press F10 to open the boot menu. The  
boot menu is where you can select which device to start  
from, such as the hard drive or an optical disc.  
Use your arrow keys to select CDROM/DVD, then press  
ENTER. Windows installs from the recovery disc you  
inserted.  
Insert the second recovery disc when prompted, then  
follow the on-screen prompts to complete the recovery.  
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Technical 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  
an AC power outlet that is supplying power. If you use  
a surge protector or power strip, 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:  
•
•
•
Its online Help  
Its printed documentation  
Its publisher’s Web site  
•
•
See the troubleshooting section of this chapter.  
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.  
Calling Customer Care  
For the contact number, see your setup poster. The label on top  
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.  
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APPENDIXA  
Legal Notices  
• Important safety information  
• Regulatory compliance statements  
• Environmental information  
• Notices  
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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.  
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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 © 2008 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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APPENDIX A: Legal Notices  
136  
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Index  
broadband  
A
connection 17  
AC power connector  
accessories  
9
modem 17  
broadband connection  
safety precautions 129  
connecting  
9
activity indicators  
buttons  
See indicators  
See keys and buttons  
application buttons 23  
application key 22, 23  
arrow keys 22, 23  
audio  
C
cable modem 17  
connecting  
9
audio in jack  
9
troubleshooting 103  
center speaker jack  
9
Caps Lock indicator 22, 23  
configuring jacks 33  
cards  
front speaker jack 10  
headphone jack 10  
adding expansion 69  
inserting memory card 30  
installing memory card 30  
removing memory card 30  
replacing expansion 69  
slots 30  
line in jack  
9
line out jack 10  
microphone jack 7, 9  
muting 31  
rear speaker jack  
recording 29  
9
troubleshooting add-in  
card 115  
S/PDIF jack  
9
troubleshooting expansion  
115  
side speaker jack  
9
subwoofer jack  
9
troubleshooting memory  
audio CD  
cleaning 86  
audio in jack  
card 110  
types of memory cards  
supported 30  
9
audio playback buttons 21, 23  
case  
closing 50  
opening 47  
B
backing up files 92  
CD  
cleaning 86  
copying 29  
inserting 26  
playing audio 28  
recording 29  
troubleshooting 109  
battery  
replacing 72  
bezel  
removing 49  
replacing 50  
BigFix 87  
CD drive  
Blu-ray  
6
adding 53  
identifying 27  
locating drive  
playing 29  
recording 29  
6
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Index  
replacing 53  
external speakers 10  
Firewire 7, 10, 34  
front speaker 10  
headphone 10  
i.Link 7, 10  
See also optical drive  
troubleshooting 109  
cellular phone  
memory cards 30  
IEEE 1394 7, 10  
keyboard 7, 10  
line in 9, 10  
Certificate of Authenticity  
3
cleaning  
audio CD 86  
case 84  
line out 10  
microphone 7, 9  
modem 10  
CD 86  
computer screen 85  
DVD 86  
mouse 7, 9, 10  
network 9, 17  
keyboard 85  
LCD panel 85  
mouse 85  
screen 85  
power  
9
power cord  
9
printer 7, 10  
PS/2 keyboard 10  
cleaning CRT screen 85  
clicking 25  
PS/2 mouse  
9
rear speakers  
9
scanner 7, 10  
side speaker  
closing  
9
computer case 50  
front bezel 50  
subwoofer  
9
universal aduio 33  
universal audio 114  
USB 7, 10  
unresponsive program 20  
CompactFlash 30  
configuring  
video camera 7, 10  
audio jacks 33  
speakers 33  
Zip drive 7, 10  
copying  
CDs and DVDs 29  
CRT screen  
cleaning 85  
connecting  
cable modem 17  
dial-up modem 17  
DSL modem 17  
PS/2 keyboard 10  
D
PS/2 mouse  
to Ethernet network 9, 17  
to Internet  
to network 9, 17  
connections  
audio in  
cable modem 17  
center speaker  
9
default printer  
setting 108  
defragmenting hard drive 91  
deleting files and folders 89  
dial-up modem 17  
adjusting volume 105  
diagnostics 105  
9
9
9
dial-up modem 17  
digital camera 7, 10, 34  
digital video camera 7, 10,  
34  
dialing properties 104  
troubleshooting 104  
troubleshooting connection  
speed 105  
DSL modem 17  
digital audio out  
digital camera  
9
Ethernet 9, 17  
external audio 9, 10  
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locating USB port 7, 10  
E
digital video camera  
editing buttons 21, 23  
electrostatic discharge (ESD) 46  
ergonomics 14  
locating IEEE 1394 port 7, 10  
DIMM  
See memory  
Error-checking 90, 113  
directional keys 22, 23  
Disk Cleanup 89  
Disk Defragmenter 91  
Ethernet jack  
9
Ethernet network  
connecting 17  
jack 17  
display  
cleaning 85  
expansion card  
troubleshooting 109  
adding 69  
documentation  
replacing 69  
User Guide  
2
external audio jack 9, 10  
double-clicking 25  
dragging 25  
F
drivers  
fan  
re-installing 118, 121  
replacing 59, 62  
variable-speed 18  
drives  
backing up files 92  
CD 27  
files  
backing up 92  
deleting 89  
finding 97  
checking for errors 90, 113  
checking for free space 88  
defragmenting 91  
DVD 27  
opening 25  
transferring 96  
troubleshooting 111  
types 96  
optical 26  
recordable CD 27  
recordable DVD 27  
troubleshooting 109, 111  
finding  
files 97  
DSL modem 17  
files and folders 96  
connecting  
9
Firewire port 7, 10, 34  
troubleshooting 103  
folders  
DVD  
opening 25  
cleaning 86  
copying 29  
fragmentation 91  
front bezel  
drive 27  
inserting 26  
playing 28  
removing 50  
replacing 50  
recording 29  
troubleshooting 109  
front I/O panel  
replacing 67  
function keys 21, 23  
DVD drive  
adding 53  
identifying 27  
G
replacing 53  
Gateway  
See also optical drive  
troubleshooting 109  
contact information  
model number 3,  
3
1
3
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Index  
126  
hard drive 57  
heat sink 65  
memory 51  
serial number 3, 126  
Support  
2
memory card reader 55  
peripheral devices 34  
power supply 64  
printer 34  
Gateway Recovery Center  
re-installing drivers 121  
re-installing programs 121  
re-installing software 121  
processor 65  
rear fan 62  
H
scanner 34  
hard drive  
side panel 47  
adding 57  
system battery 72  
system board 73  
backing up files 92  
checking for errors 90, 113  
checking for free space 88  
defragmenting 91  
Internet  
buttons 21, 23  
troubleshooting 102, 105  
deleting files and folders 89  
replacing 57  
J
scanning for errors 90, 113  
troubleshooting 111  
jacks  
See connections  
headphone jack 7, 10  
heat sink  
K
replacing 65  
keyboard  
Hibernate mode  
hot-swapping 34  
7
buttons 21, 22  
cleaning 85  
features 21, 22  
PS/2 port 10  
I
IBM Microdrive 30  
IEEE 10  
troubleshooting 111  
USB port 7, 10  
IEEE 1394 port 7, 10, 34  
indicators  
keys and buttons  
application 22, 23  
arrow 22, 23  
Caps Lock 22, 23  
Num Lock 22, 23  
numeric keypad 22, 23  
Scroll Lock 22, 23  
audio playback 21, 23  
directional 22, 23  
editing 21, 23  
function 21, 23  
Internet 21, 23  
mouse 24  
installing  
battery 72  
CD drive 53  
navigation 21, 23  
numeric 22, 23  
sleep 23  
devices 34  
digital camera 34  
digital video camera 34  
DVD drive 53  
expansion card 69  
front bezel 49  
front fan 59  
Windows 22, 23  
L
labels  
front I/O panel 67  
Microsoft Certificate of  
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Authenticity  
3
supported 30  
model number 3, 126  
removing card 31  
replacing 55  
using 30  
serial number 3, 126  
LCD panel  
cleaning 85  
troubleshooting 107, 109  
Memory Stick 30  
microphone jack 7, 9  
lights  
Microsoft Certificate of  
See indicators  
line in jack 9, 10  
line out jack 10  
Authenticity  
3
model number 3, 126  
modem  
cable 17  
connecting 17  
dial-up 17  
DSL 17  
M
maintenance  
backing up files 92  
BigFix 87  
jack 17  
modem jack 10  
checking for drive errors  
90, 113  
monitor  
checking hard drive space  
cleaning 85  
88  
setting up multiple 38  
cleaning case 84  
cleaning CD 86  
troubleshooting 107  
mouse  
cleaning computer display  
85  
buttons 24  
changing settings 25  
cleaning 85  
cleaning computer screen  
85  
clicking 25  
cleaning DVD 86  
cleaning keyboard 85  
cleaning monitor 85  
cleaning mouse 85  
cleaning optical disc 86  
defragmenting 91  
deleting files 89  
extending computer life 83  
suggested schedule 82  
using Task Scheduler 94  
double-clicking 25  
moving pointer 24, 25  
moving screen objects 25  
opening files, folders, and  
programs 25  
pointer 24  
PS/2 port  
9
right-clicking 25  
scroll wheel 25  
selecting screen objects 25  
troubleshooting 110  
USB port 7, 10  
media reader  
See memory card reader  
memory  
moving  
adding 51  
files from old computer 95,  
installing 51  
replacing 51  
troubleshooting 113  
96  
pointer 24, 25  
screen objects 25  
settings from old computer  
95  
memory card reader  
inserting card 30  
locating  
6
MP3 player  
memory card types  
memory cards 30  
141  
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Index  
multimedia  
adjusting volume 31  
Plug and Play devices  
IEEE 1394 support for 34  
playing Blu-ray 29  
playing DVD 28  
using Windows Media  
Player 28, 29  
USB support for 34  
pointer  
moving 24, 25  
ports  
See connections  
power  
button  
connector  
Hibernate mode  
source problems 16  
MultiMediaCard 30  
muting sound 31  
7
N
9
7
navigation keys 21, 23  
network  
Standby/Resume  
7
jack 9, 17  
troubleshooting 107  
troubleshooting 106  
turning off computer 19  
turning on computer 18  
numeric keypad 22, 23  
indicator 22, 23  
power button  
power supply  
replacing 64  
7
O
opening  
printer  
computer case 47  
files 25  
installing 34  
setting default 108  
troubleshooting 108  
USB port 7, 10  
folders 25  
front bezel 49  
programs 25  
shortcut menu 25  
processor  
replacing 65  
programs  
optical connection  
optical drive  
9
closing unresponsive 20  
opening 25  
re-installing 118, 121  
eject button 26  
eject hole 26  
indicator 26  
inserting disc 26  
using 26  
PS/2 port  
keyboard 10  
mouse  
9
P
R
Pad Lock indicator 22, 23  
RAID  
password  
configuring 43  
troubleshooting 114  
creating volume 43  
deleting volume 43  
help information 44  
preparing computer 42  
setting up 39  
PDA  
memory cards 30  
peripheral devices 34  
playing  
audio CD 28  
Blu-ray Disc 29  
DVD 28  
RAID 0 39  
RAID 1 40  
RAID 10 41  
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RAID 5 41  
RAM  
S
S/PDIF out  
9
See memory  
safety  
rebooting computer 20  
recordable drive  
avoiding repetitive strain  
16  
general precautions 128  
guidelines for  
6
recording  
audio files 29  
troubleshooting  
100  
optical discs 29  
recovering  
posture 16  
defaults 123  
reducing eye strain 15  
setting up computer 15  
sitting at computer 14, 16  
static electricity 46  
drivers 118, 121  
programs 118, 121  
software 118, 121  
system 118  
scanner  
installing 34  
screen  
troubleshooting 107  
with Gateway Recovery  
Center 121  
with Windows System  
Restore 122  
re-installing  
screen objects  
defaults 123  
getting information 25  
moving 25  
selecting 25  
drivers 118, 121  
programs 118, 121  
software 118, 121  
Windows 118  
Scroll Lock indicator 22, 23  
scroll wheel 25  
Secure Digital 30  
serial number 3, 126  
with Gateway Recovery  
Center 121  
with Windows System  
Restore 122  
setting up  
safety precautions 128  
removing files and folders 89  
resetting computer 20  
restarting computer 20  
settings  
transferring 95, 96  
shortcut menus  
restoring  
accessing 25  
defaults 123  
shortcuts  
drivers 118, 121  
files from Recycle Bin 111  
programs 118, 121  
software 118, 121  
system 118  
opening menu 25  
shutting down computer 19, 20  
side panel  
removing 47  
replacing 47  
with Gateway Recovery  
Center 121  
with Windows System  
Restore 122  
sleep button 23  
sleep mode 18  
using 19  
Resume mode  
right-clicking 25  
7
SmartMedia 30  
software  
re-installing 118, 121  
143  
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Index  
sound  
general guidelines 100  
hard drive 111  
Internet connection 102,  
105  
adjusting 31  
controls 31  
muting 31  
speaker jack 10  
keyboard 111  
LCD panel 107, 109  
memory 113  
speakers  
configuring 33  
memory card reader 110  
monitor 107  
Standby mode  
7
starting  
mouse 110  
computer 18  
programs 25  
network 106  
passwords 114  
power 107  
starting computer  
static electricity 46  
surge protector 16  
7
printer 108  
safety guidelines 100  
screen 107, 109  
screen area 107  
screen resolution 107  
technical support 126  
telephone support 126  
system battery  
replacing 72  
system board  
replacing 73  
system identification label 3,  
turning off computer 7, 19, 20  
turning on computer 7, 18  
126  
T
U
Task Schdeuler 94  
techinal support  
uninterruptible power supply  
(UPS) 16  
Support  
2
updating  
technical support  
Windows 86  
tips before contacting 126  
UPS 16  
USB port 7, 10, 34  
telephone support 126  
transferring  
files from old computer 95,  
V
96  
video  
settings from old computer  
playing 28, 29  
95  
volume  
troubleshooting  
add-in cards 115  
cable modem 103  
cards 115  
adjusting 31  
adjusting dial-up modem  
105  
controls 31  
muting 31  
CD drive 109  
dial-up modem 104  
dial-up modem speed 105  
display 109  
W
DSL modem 103  
DVD drive 109  
Ethernet network 106  
files 111  
waking computer 18  
Windows  
Product Key Code  
3
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Windows Easy Transfer 95  
Windows key 22, 23  
Windows System Restore 118  
Windows Update 86  
wired Ethernet  
troubleshooting 106  
working safely 14  
X
xD 30  
Z
Zip drive 92  
145  
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Index  
146  
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MAN BTX FX EREC HW REF GDE R0 5/08  
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