Gateway Personal Computer GT5448E User Manual

REFERENCEGUIDE  
®
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Contents  
Premium multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . 19  
Elite multimedia keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20  
Using the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22  
Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24  
Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26  
Installing a printer, scanner, or other device . . . . . . . . . . . 26  
i
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Using BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64  
Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64  
Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65  
Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66  
Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66  
Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68  
ii  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96  
Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . 98  
Using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104  
Recovering your system to its factory condition . . . . 107  
Recovering your system using the Windows DVD . . . 108  
iii  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . 108  
Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110  
Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111  
Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111  
Chapter 7: Legal Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113  
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123  
iv  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
About this guide  
Accessing the online User Guide  
Gateway contact information  
Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity  
For more information  
1
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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 the online User  
Guide.  
For more information  
For more information about your computer, visit Gateway’s  
Support page at support.gateway.com or the Web address  
shown on your computer’s label. The Support page also has  
links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed  
specifications.  
Accessing the online User  
Guide  
In addition to this guide, the User Guide has been included  
on your hard drive. The User Guide is an in-depth,  
easy-to-read manual that includes information on the  
following topics:  
Help and technical support  
Using and customizing Windows and other software  
Controlling audio and video settings  
Using the Internet  
Protecting your files  
Playing and recording media  
Maintaining  
To access the User Guide:  
Click (Start), All Programs, then click Gateway  
Documentation.  
2
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
Gateway contact information  
The label on the side of your computer case contains  
information that identifies your computer model and serial  
number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if  
you call for assistance.  
O
T
e
nl  
in  
e
ch su  
S
p
up  
p
or  
p
t:  
T
e
or  
t
ch  
P
ho  
S
up  
ne  
:
p
(
U
or  
t
H
.S  
.)  
o
u
(
C
rs  
:
an  
ad  
a)  
9
0
Online support:  
0
4
3
9
4
Tech Support Phone:
Tech Support Hours:  
9004394  
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.  
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
CHAPTER 1: About This Reference  
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Computer  
Front  
Back  
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Front  
Optical disc drive  
Optical disc drive bay  
Diskette drive (optional)  
USB port (optional)  
Memory card reader (optional)  
Power button/power indicator  
Hard drive indicator  
Microphone jack  
Headphone jack  
USB ports (optional)  
IEEE 1394 ports (optional)  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Optical disc drive  
Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install  
games and programs, watch DVDs, and store  
large files onto recordable discs (depending  
on drive type). This drive may be a CD,  
recordable CD, DVD, recordable DVD, Blu-ray,  
or HD DVD drive. For more information about  
your drive, see the online User Guide.  
USB ports  
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such  
as a USB external drive, printer, scanner,  
camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports.  
Microphone jack  
Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is  
color-coded pink.  
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                   
www.gateway.com  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Headphone jack  
Plug powered, analog front speakers, an  
external amplifier, or headphones into this  
jack. This jack is color-coded green.  
Diskette drive  
(optional)  
Use this drive to read from and write to 3.5"  
diskettes.  
Memory card  
reader (optional)  
Insert a memory card from a digital camera,  
MP3 player, PDA, cellular telephone, or other  
devices into the memory card reader.  
Power  
button/power  
indicator  
Press this button to turn the power on or off.  
You can also configure the power button to  
operate in Standby/Resume mode or  
Hibernate mode. The power indicator lights  
when the computer is turned on.  
Hard drive activity  
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.  
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Back  
Important  
Your computer’s hardware options and port locations may vary from this  
illustration.  
Your computer includes the following components.  
Power connector  
Voltage switch  
Case cover thumbscrew  
Headphone/front  
speaker jack  
Microphone jack  
Audio in/side speaker jack  
Surround left/right speaker jack  
S/PDIF jack (optional)  
Center/subwoofer jack  
Ethernet (network) jack  
USB ports  
IEEE 1394/FireWire™ port  
PS/2 mouse port  
PS/2 keyboard port  
S-Video out jack (optional)  
TV tuner (optional)  
Telephone jack  
Video card (optional)  
Modem (line) jack  
Case cover thumbscrew  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Power connector  
Plug the power cord into this  
connector.  
Case thumbscrew  
Remove this screw before opening  
the case.  
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Audio input (Line in)  
jack (blue plug)  
-OR-  
This jack is user configurable for one  
of the following:  
Stereo in: Plug an external audio  
input source (such as a stereo) into  
this jack so you can record sound on  
your computer (Default).  
Side speaker jack  
Stereo out: Plug your side left and  
right speakers into this jack.  
For more information, see  
“Configuring the audio jacks” on  
page 26.  
Surround/Rear  
speaker jack  
(black plug)  
Plug your rear right and left  
speakers into this jack.  
For more information, see  
“Configuring the audio jacks” on  
page 26.  
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 the online User  
Guide.  
IEEE 1394 port  
Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as  
®
Firewire ) devices (such as a digital  
camcorder) into this 6-pin IEEE 1394  
port. For more information, see  
“Installing a printer, scanner, or  
other device” on page 26.  
PS/2 mouse port  
Plug a PS/2 mouse into this port.  
S-Video out jack  
(optional)  
Plug a TV into this optional jack.  
TV tuner (optional)  
Plug a video tuner or antenna into  
this optional jack.  
Telephone jack  
(optional)  
Plug the cord from your telephone  
into this jack.  
Voltage switch  
The switch is preset at the factory.  
Make sure that this is set to the  
correct voltage for your area.  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
             
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer  
Component  
Icon  
Description  
Headphone/analog  
speakers jack (green  
plug)  
This jack is user configurable for one  
of the following:  
Headphone: Plug headphones or  
amplified speakers into this jack  
(Default).  
-OR-  
Front speakers jack  
Stereo out: Plug your front left and  
right speakers into this jack.  
For more information, see  
“Configuring the audio jacks” on  
page 26.  
Microphone jack  
(pink plug)  
Plug a microphone into this jack.  
S/PDIF output jack  
(optional)  
Plug an optical cable from an  
amplifier or entertainment system  
into this jack for digital sound.  
Center/subwoofer  
jack  
Plug your center speaker and  
subwoofer into this jack.  
For more information, see  
“Configuring the audio jacks” on  
page 26.  
(orange  
plug)(optional)  
USB ports  
Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus)  
devices (such as a USB Iomega™  
Zip™ drive, printer, scanner,  
camera, keyboard, or mouse) into  
these ports. For more information,  
see “Installing a printer, scanner, or  
other device” on page 26.  
PS/2 keyboard port  
Video card (optional)  
Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port.  
Plug a VGA (blue connector) or DVI  
(white connector) monitor into a  
port on this card, if installed.  
Modem jack  
(optional)  
Plug a modem cable into this jack.  
For more information, see  
“Connecting a dial-up modem” on  
page 16.  
10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                 
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  
Adjusting the volume  
Configuring the audio jacks  
Installing a printer, scanner, or other device  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Working safely and  
comfortably  
Before using your computer, follow these general guidelines  
for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding  
discomfort and strain:  
Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.  
Adjust the screen so it is perpendicular to your line of  
sight, and the top of the screen is no higher than eye  
leve.  
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  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
Reducing eye strain  
Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the  
monitor screen or shine directly into your eyes.  
Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid  
glare on your screen and light shining directly into your  
eyes. Reduce glare by installing shades or curtains on  
windows, and by installing a glare screen filter.  
Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use  
your computer in a dark room.  
Set paper holders at the same height and distance as  
the monitor.  
Avoid focusing your eyes on your computer screen for  
long periods of time. Every 10 or 15 minutes, look  
around the room, and try to focus on distant objects.  
Setting up your computer desk and chair  
When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make  
sure that the desk is the appropriate height and the chair helps  
you maintain good posture.  
Select a flat surface for your computer desk.  
Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands  
and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you  
use the keyboard and touchpad. If the desk is not  
adjustable or is too tall, consider using an adjustable  
chair to control your arm’s height above the keyboard.  
Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes  
your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.  
Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly  
below the level of your elbow. This position lets your  
shoulders relax while you type.  
Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of the  
seat, or use a footrest to distribute your weight evenly  
on the chair and relieve pressure on the back of your  
thighs.  
Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower  
curve of your spine. You can use a pillow or cushion to  
provide extra back support.  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
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.  
14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                 
www.gateway.com  
Checking the voltage selection  
Caution  
If you set the voltage selection switch incorrectly, your system will be  
damaged. Make sure this switch is set correctly for your location before turning  
on your computer. In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal  
115 volts at 60 Hz. The power supply should always be set to this when your  
computer is operating in the United States. In other areas of the world, such  
as Europe, the utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz. If your computer  
is operating in an environment such as this, the voltage switch should be moved  
to 230.  
The power supply, a component built into your computer,  
provides power to the system board, add-in cards, and  
peripheral devices. The power supply’s voltage selection for  
your location is typically set at the factory, but you can change  
it to match the electrical service available in your usage area  
(such as while in another country). Use the power selection  
switch on the back of your computer to set the voltage to  
115V or 230V.  
To set the voltage selection switch:  
1
2
Disconnect your computer’s power cable.  
Use a tool such as an opened paper clip to slide the  
voltage selection switch to the correct voltage position.  
The switch is located on the back of your computer,  
near the power cable connector.  
Connecting to a broadband  
modem or network  
Important  
Your computer may be equipped with a built-in Ethernet (network) jack.  
For information about setting up a wired or wireless Ethernet network, see the  
online User Guide.  
You can connect your computer to a cable or DSL modem or  
to a wired Ethernet network.  
To connect to a broadband modem or to an Ethernet  
network:  
1
Insert one end of the network cable into the network  
jack on the back of your computer.  
2
Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable  
modem, DSL modem, or network jack.  
15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
             
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Connecting a dial-up modem  
Warning  
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger  
telecommunications line cord.  
Your computer may have a 56K modem that you can use with  
a standard telephone line to connect to the internet or fax  
documents.  
To connect the modem:  
1
Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem  
jack on the modem at the back of your computer.  
2
Insert the other end of the modem cable into a  
telephone wall jack. (The modem will not work with  
digital or PBX telephone lines.)  
3
If you want, you can connect a telephone to the PHONE  
jack on the modem on the back of your computer.  
Starting your computer  
To start your computer:  
1
Connect the power, network, mouse, and keyboard  
cables to your computer according to the setup poster.  
2
Press the power button on the front of your computer.  
If your computer does not turn on, check the power  
cable connections.  
Important  
Your computer has a built-in, variable-speed fan. In addition,  
your computer uses a powerful processor which produces heat and has  
its own cooling fan. Both the system fan and processor fan can run at  
different speeds at times to ensure correct system cooling. You may  
notice an increase in the fan noise when the fan is running at high speed  
and a decrease in the fan noise when it switches to normal speed.  
3
4
If you are starting your computer for the first time,  
follow the on-screen instructions to select the language  
and time zone and to create your first user account.  
Attach and turn on any USB or audio peripheral devices,  
such as printers, scanners, and speakers. If you need to  
attach a peripheral device to the parallel or serial ports,  
turn off your computer first. See the documentation  
that came with each device for its setup instructions.  
16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
www.gateway.com  
5
To open your computer’s main 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 the online User Guide.  
Waking up your computer  
Tip  
For more information about changing the power button mode, see the  
“Customizing” chapter in the 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.  
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.  
17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
To put your computer to sleep:  
1
Click  
(Start), then click  
(power). The  
computer saves your session and partially shuts down  
to save power.  
2
To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard  
or press the power button.  
To turn off your computer:  
1
Click  
(Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon,  
then click Shut Down. The computer turns off.  
2
To completely disconnect all power (such as for  
servicing internal components), also disconnect the  
power cord.  
Restarting (rebooting) your  
computer  
If your computer does not respond to keyboard or mouse  
input, you may need to restart (reboot) your computer.  
To restart your computer:  
1
Click  
(Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon,  
then click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns  
on again.  
18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
2
If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the  
power button until the computer turns off (about five  
seconds), then press it again to turn the computer back  
on.  
Using the keyboard  
Premium multimedia keyboard features  
The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons.  
Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which  
keyboard feature is active.  
Function keys  
Indicators  
Editing buttons  
Internet buttons  
Audio playback buttons Navigation keys  
Internet buttons  
Application key  
Directional keys Numeric keypad  
Windows keys  
Feature  
Icon  
Description  
Editing buttons  
Function keys  
Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste.  
Press these keys to start program actions. Each  
program uses different function keys for  
different purposes. See the program  
documentation to find out more about the  
function key actions.  
Internet buttons  
Press these buttons to launch your Internet  
home page, search, or e-mail programs.  
Audio playback  
buttons  
Press these buttons to play your audio files and  
to adjust the volume.  
19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
               
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Feature  
Icon  
Description  
Navigation keys  
Press these keys to move the cursor to the  
beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the  
page, down the page, to the beginning of a  
document, or to the end of a document.  
Indicators  
Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or  
SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the  
corresponding key to activate the function.  
Windows keys  
Press one of these keys to open the Windows  
Start menu. These keys can also be used in  
combination with other keys to open utilities like  
F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer).  
Application key  
Press this key to access shortcut menus and help  
assistants in Windows.  
Directional keys  
Numeric keypad  
Press these keys to move the cursor up, down,  
right, or left.  
Press these keys to type numbers when the  
numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on.  
Elite multimedia keyboard features  
The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons.  
Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which  
keyboard feature is active.  
Audio playback  
Sleep button Function keys  
Internet buttons  
Indicators  
buttons  
Windows keys  
Application key  
Navigation keys Numeric keypad  
20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                 
www.gateway.com  
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.  
21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                     
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Using the mouse  
Scroll wheel  
Right button  
Left button  
The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on  
the computer display. This illustration shows the standard  
mouse.  
As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the display  
moves in the same direction.  
You can use the left and right buttons on the mouse to select  
objects on the display.  
22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through  
a document. This feature is not available in all programs.  
To...  
Do this...  
Move the  
Move the mouse around. If you  
pointer on the  
computer  
display  
reach the edge of your mouse  
pad and need to move the  
mouse farther, lift the mouse  
and place it in the middle of the  
mouse pad, then continue  
moving the mouse.  
Select an object  
on the computer  
display  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Quickly press and  
release the left mouse button.  
This is called clicking.  
Start a program  
or open a file or  
folder  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Quickly press and  
release the left mouse button  
twice. This is called  
double-clicking.  
Access a  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Quickly press and  
release the right mouse button  
once. This is called  
shortcut menu  
or find more  
information  
about an object  
on the display.  
right-clicking.  
Move an object  
on the computer  
display.  
Position the pointer over the  
object. Press the left mouse  
button and hold it down. Move  
(drag) the object to the  
appropriate part of the  
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  
the online User Guide. For instructions on how to clean the  
mouse, see “Cleaning the mouse” on page 63.  
23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                   
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Adjusting the volume  
You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls or the  
Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of  
To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls:  
If you are using external speakers, turn the knob on the  
front of the speakers.  
-OR-  
Use the mute and volume control buttons on the  
keyboard. For more information, see “Using the  
keyboard” on page 19.  
To adjust the volume from Windows:  
1
Click  
(Volume) on the taskbar. The volume control  
slider opens.  
2
3
Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and  
down to decrease volume.  
To mute the volume, click (Mute). To restore volume,  
click it again.  
24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
4
To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The Volume  
Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag  
sliders for individual devices.  
Tip  
Adjust the Windows Sounds slider to change system sounds  
volume independently of general volume (such as the volume used for  
music and game sounds).  
5
Click X in the top-right corner of the window to close it.  
Help  
For more information about adjusting the volume, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type ad ju stin g volum e in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
Configuring the audio jacks  
If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are  
universal jacks. This means that they can be used for more  
than one purpose. For example, the blue jack on the computer  
can be a stereo in jack or a stereo out jack. To use the audio  
jacks for something other than the default audio device, you  
need to configure the audio jacks.  
To configure the audio jacks:  
Shortcut  
Start Ö Control Panel Ö Hardware and Sound Ö Sound Ö click the  
device Ö Configure  
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.  
Installing a printer, scanner, or  
other device  
Important  
Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the  
device documentation and installation instructions.  
Your computer has one or more of the following ports:  
IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire®), Universal Serial Bus  
(USB), serial, and parallel. You use these ports to connect  
peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital  
cameras to your computer. For more information about port  
locations, see “Checking Out Your Computer” on page 5.  
26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                   
www.gateway.com  
IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and  
hot-swapping, which means that your computer will usually  
recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the  
appropriate port. When you use an IEEE 1394 or USB device  
for the first time, your computer will prompt you to install any  
software the device needs. After doing this, you can  
disconnect and reconnect the device at any time.  
Help  
For more information about installing peripheral devices, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type in stallin g devices in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
Parallel and serial port devices are not plug-and-play. See the  
device documentation for detailed information and  
installation instructions.  
27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started  
28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Upgrading Your Computer  
Preventing static electricity discharge  
Opening and closing the case  
Installing memory  
Replacing the system battery  
Adding or replacing a CD or DVD drive  
Replacing the memory card reader  
Adding or replacing a hard drive  
Replacing the front fan  
Replacing the rear fan  
Replacing the power supply  
Replacing the heat sink and processor  
Replacing the I/O board  
Adding or replacing an expansion card  
Replacing the system board  
29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
Preventing static electricity  
discharge  
Warning  
To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts,  
turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network  
cables before opening the case.  
To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes  
of the power supply.  
The components inside your computer are extremely sensitive  
to static electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge  
(ESD).  
Before opening the computer case, follow these guidelines:  
Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most  
electronics stores) and attach it to a bare metal part of  
your computer.  
Turn off your computer.  
Touch a bare metal surface on the back of the computer.  
Unplug the power cord and the modem and network  
cables.  
Caution  
ESD can permanently damage electrostatic discharge-sensitive  
components in your computer. Prevent ESD damage by following ESD guidelines  
every time you open the computer case.  
Before working with computer components, follow these  
guidelines:  
Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors,  
plastic, and packing foam.  
Remove components from their antistatic bags only  
when you are ready to use them. Do not lay  
components on the outside of antistatic bags because  
only the inside of the bags provide electrostatic  
protection.  
Always hold expansion cards by their edges or their  
metal mounting brackets. Avoid touching the edge  
connectors and components on the cards. Never slide  
expansion cards or components over any surface.  
30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
Opening the case  
Your computer case provides easy access to internal  
components.  
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 30.  
2
Shut down your computer, then disconnect the power  
cord and modem, network, and all peripheral device  
cables.  
3
4
Press the power button for ten seconds to drain any  
residual power from your computer.  
Remove the two thumbscrews on the side panel cover.  
Thumbscrews  
5
Swing the side panel away from the back of your  
computer, then pull the panel off.  
31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
Removing the front bezel  
To remove the front bezel:  
Press the three bezel retention tabs, then swing the  
right side of the front bezel away from the computer  
and remove it.  
Tabs  
Closing the case  
Replacing the front bezel  
To replace the front bezel:  
1
Slide the tabs on the left side of the bezel into the slots  
in the left side of the computer.  
2
Swing the right side of the bezel in to insert the tabs  
on the right side of the bezel into the slots on the right  
side of the computer.  
3
Press the right side of the bezel firmly until it snaps into  
place.  
32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
www.gateway.com  
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.  
2
Insert the front edge of the side panel into the inside  
front edge of the computer, then swing the side panel  
in toward the back of the computer to secure it into  
place.  
Thumbscrews  
3
4
Replace the side panel thumbscrews.  
Reconnect the cables and power cord.  
33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
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 31.  
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
Find the memory module banks on your system board.  
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.  
34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
5
6
Align the notches on the new DIMM with the notches  
on the memory module bank and press the module  
firmly into the bank. The tabs on the sides of the  
memory module should secure the memory module  
automatically. When the module is secure, you hear a  
click.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
7
8
9
Return your computer to its upright position.  
Reconnect the cables and the power cord.  
Turn on your computer. Windows starts and the  
Windows desktop appears.  
10 Click (Start), right-click Computer, then click  
Properties. The amount of memory in your computer  
is displayed.  
Replacing the system battery  
Warning  
Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with  
the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of  
used batteries following the manufacturer’s instructions.  
If the computer clock does not keep time or the settings in  
the BIOS Setup utility are not saved when you turn off your  
computer, replace the system battery. Use a battery of the  
same size and voltage as the original battery that was in your  
computer.  
To replace the battery:  
1
2
Restart your computer.  
During the restart, press and hold the F1 key. The main  
menu of the BIOS Setup utility opens.  
3
4
Write down all the values in the menus and submenus,  
then exit from the utility.  
Shut down your computer.  
35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
5
6
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
Important  
Your computer’s battery location may vary from the illustration  
below.  
7
8
Locate the old battery on the system board and note  
its orientation. You will need to install the new battery  
the same way.  
Push the battery release tab. The battery pops out of  
the socket.  
Battery Battery release tab  
9
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 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
11 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
12 Turn on your computer.  
13 While your computer starts, press and hold the F1 key.  
The main menu of the BIOS Setup utility opens.  
14 In the BIOS Setup utility, restore any settings that you  
wrote down in Step 3.  
15 Save all your settings and exit the BIOS Setup utility.  
36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
Adding or replacing a CD or  
DVD drive  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace a CD or DVD drive.  
To add replace a CD or DVD drive:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
2
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 32.  
Important  
The color and shape of your replacement drive’s front cover may  
vary from your original drive.  
3
4
If you are installing a new drive (not replacing an old  
one), remove the two drive retention screws in the drive  
bay, then go to Step 7. For the location of the screws,  
see the photo in Step 6.  
If you are replacing an existing drive, disconnect the  
cables from the drive, noting their locations and  
orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new drive. (CD/DVD drive shown.)  
5
Note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the  
jumper on the new drive to be the same.  
37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
6
Remove the two drive retention screws, then slide the  
drive forward and out of the drive bay.  
Drive retention screws  
7
Slide the new drive into the drive bay, line up the screw  
holes on the drive bay with the screw holes on the drive,  
then replace the two drive retention screws.  
Drive retention screws  
8
9
Reconnect the drive cables using your notes from  
Step 4, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.  
Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the front bezel” on page 32.  
10 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
Replacing the memory card  
reader  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the memory card reader.  
To replace the memory card reader:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
2
Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 32.  
Important  
The color and shape of your replacement card reader’s front  
cover may vary from your original card reader.  
3
4
If you are installing a new card reader (not replacing an  
old one), remove the two drive retention screws in the  
drive bay, then go to Step 5. For the location of the  
screws, see the photo in Step 4.  
Remove the two drive retention screws, disconnect the  
card reader’s data cable from the system board, then  
slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay.  
Screws  
39  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
5
Slide the new card reader into the bay from the front  
of the case.  
Screws  
6
7
8
9
Use the screws you removed previously to secure the  
Connect the new card reader’s data cable to the system  
board.  
Reinstall the bezel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the front bezel” on page 32.  
Reinstall the computer case’s side panel by following  
the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on  
page 33.  
Adding or replacing a hard  
drive  
To add or replace a hard drive:  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace a hard drive.  
1
2
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
If you are adding a new drive, go to Step 4. If you are  
replacing an existing drive, go to the next step.  
40  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
3
Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and  
orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new drive.)  
4
Pull the front fan assembly away from the system  
board, then remove it.  
41  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
5
Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.  
6
Remove the hard drive bay screw.  
Hard drive bay  
screw  
7
Remove the hard drive bay from your computer. You  
may need to work the bay out of your computer by  
rocking the bay back and forth.  
42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
8
If you are replacing an old drive, remove the four screws  
that secure the hard drive to the hard drive bay, then  
remove the hard drive from the bay.  
Screws  
Screws  
- OR -  
If you are adding a new drive (not replacing an old one),  
remove the four screws (two on each side) from the  
empty hard drive bay.  
9
If you are replacing a drive, note any jumper settings  
on the old drive and set the jumper on the new drive  
to be the same. If you are adding a new drive, set the  
jumper as instructed by the drive’s user guide.  
Jumper  
10 Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then secure the  
drive to the bay using the four screws you removed  
previously.  
43  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
11 Slide the drive bay back into your computer, making  
sure that the tabs on the bottom of the bay align with  
and slide into the slots on the bottom of your computer.  
Hard drive bay mounting slots  
12 Secure the drive bay to your computer using the screw  
you removed previously.  
13 Connect the drive cables. If you are replacing a drive,  
use your notes from Step 3.  
14 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
15 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
16 Turn on your computer.  
17 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 97.  
44  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the front fan.  
To replace the front fan:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
2
Pull the front fan away from the system board, then  
remove it.  
3
Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.  
Important  
The location of the fan connection may vary, so make sure that  
you trace the fan cable from the fan to the system board.  
4
Connect the new fan cable to the system board, then  
insert the new fan into place.  
45  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
5
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
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 31.  
2
Disconnect the fan from the system board.  
Important  
The location of the fan connection may vary, so make sure that  
you trace the fan cable from the fan to the system board.  
46  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
3
Remove the four screws on the outside of the case that  
secure the fan to the back of the case, then remove the  
fan.  
Screws  
Screws  
4
Place the new fan on the back of your computer, then  
replace the screws that secure it to the back cover.  
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 33.  
7
8
Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.  
Turn on your computer.  
Tools  
You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the power supply.  
To replace the power supply:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
2
Disconnect the power supply cables from all  
components (such as hard drives, CD or DVD drives, and  
the system board), noting their locations and  
orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you  
install the new power supply.)  
47  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
3
Remove the three screws that secure the power supply  
to your computer.  
Screws  
4
Slide the power supply away from the back of your  
computer, then pull it down and remove it.  
5
6
7
Install the new power supply into the case, then install  
the three screws to secure the power supply to the case.  
Reconnect the power supply cables using your notes  
from Step 2.  
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
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 31.  
48  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
2
3
For more stability, place your computer on its side. To  
avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other  
non-abrasive surface.  
Pull the front fan away from the system board, then  
remove it.  
4
Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.  
Important  
The location of the fan connection may vary, so make sure that  
you trace the fan cable from the fan to the system board.  
49  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
5
Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the  
system board, then remove the heat sink and place it  
on a stable surface with the flat surface of the heat sink  
(the side with the thermal grease) up.  
Screws  
Screws  
6
Release the processor by pushing down on the lever,  
and then lifting it completely up.  
7
8
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.  
50  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
9
If this is a new heat sink, remove the strip on the heat  
sink that covers the gray thermal grease. If you are  
processor.  
10 Place the heat sink on the processor, then tighten the  
screws that secure it to the system board.  
11 Connect the fan cable to the system board, then insert  
the fan into place.  
12 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
Important  
The color and shape of your replacement I/O panel may vary from your  
original I/O panel..  
To replace the front I/O panel:  
1
2
3
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
Remove the bezel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the front bezel” on page 32.  
Disconnect the cable from the I/O panel.  
51  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
4
Remove the screw that secures the I/O panel to your  
computer, then remove the I/O panel from your  
computer.  
Screw  
5
Insert the new I/O panel into your computer, then  
replace the screw.  
6
7
Connect the I/O panel cable to the new I/O panel.  
Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the front bezel” on page 32.  
8
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
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 31.  
2
If you are replacing an expansion card, go to the next  
step. If you are adding a new expansion card, go to  
Step 4.  
3
Disconnect any cables that are attached to the card,  
noting their locations and orientation. (You may need  
to reconnect the cables after you install the new card.)  
52  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
4
Open the card retention lever.  
Card retention lever  
5
Remove the old expansion card. You can slightly seesaw  
the card end-to-end to loosen the card, but do not bend  
the card sideways.  
Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion  
card. Touching the contacts can cause electrostatic damage to the card.  
6
7
slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to help insert the  
card, but do not bend the card sideways.  
If you have just replaced an expansion card, reconnect  
the expansion card cables (if any) using your notes from  
Step 3. If you have added a new expansion card,  
connect its cables according to its user guide.  
8
Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
53  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
Replacing the system board  
To replace the system board:  
1
Remove the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Removing the side panel” on page 31.  
2
Disconnect any expansion card cables from the cards  
and from the system board, noting their locations and  
orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you  
reinstall the cards.) You can also mark the cables with  
tape labels to simplify reconnecting cables later.  
3
Open the card retention lever.  
Card retention lever  
4
Remove any expansion cards. You can slightly seesaw  
the card end-to-end to loosen the card, but do not bend  
the card sideways.  
54  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
5
Pull the front fan away from the system board, then  
remove it.  
6
Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.  
Important  
The location of the fan connection may vary, so make sure that  
you trace the fan cable from the fan to the system board.  
55  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
7
Find the memory module banks on your system board.  
8
9
Gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the  
memory modules, then remove them.  
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.)  
10 Remove the three screws that secure the power supply  
to your computer.  
Screws  
11 Slide the power supply away from the back of your  
computer, then pull it down and remove it.  
56  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
www.gateway.com  
12 Remove the seven system board screws.  
Screws  
Screws  
13 Lift the system board up and out of the case.  
14 Align the new system board on the screw holes in the  
case, then secure it into the case with the screws.  
15 If your replacement system board does not include a  
processor, go to Step 16.  
-OR-  
If your replacement system board includes a processor,  
go to Step 21.  
16 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the  
old system board, then remove the heat sink and place  
it on a stable surface with the flat surface of the heat  
sink (the side with the thermal grease) up.  
Screws  
Screws  
57  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer  
17 Release the processor from the old system board by  
pushing down on the lever, then lifting it completely up.  
18 Remove the processor from the old system board.  
19 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.  
20 Place the heat sink over the processor, then tighten the  
screws that secure it to the system board.  
21 Install the power supply into the case, then install the  
three screws to secure the power supply to the case.  
from Step 9.  
23 Install the memory you removed previously.  
24 Connect the fan cable to the system board, then insert  
the fan into place.  
25 Reinstall any expansion cards you removed.  
26 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in  
“Replacing the side panel” on page 33.  
58  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
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  
59  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 5: 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  
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.  
60  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
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.  
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  
61  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer  
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.  
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.  
62  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
www.gateway.com  
Cleaning the monitor  
Caution  
A flat-panel display is made of specially coated glass and can be  
scratched or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based glass cleaners.  
To clean the monitor:  
To clean an LCD flat panel monitor, use a soft cloth and  
water to clean the screen. Dampen the cloth (never  
apply liquid directly to the screen), then wipe the screen  
with the cloth.  
To clean a CRT monitor, use a soft cloth and glass  
cleaner to clean the monitor screen. Squirt a little  
cleaner on the cloth (never directly on the screen), then  
wipe the screen with the cloth.  
Cleaning the mouse  
If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across the  
computer screen or becomes difficult to control precisely,  
cleaning the mouse will likely improve its accuracy.  
To clean the mouse:  
Wipe the bottom of the mouse with a damp, lint-free  
cloth.  
Cleaning optical discs  
Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs) get dirty from  
frequent handling.  
To clean an optical disc:  
Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle,  
using a product made especially for the purpose.  
63  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                     
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer  
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 the online User Guide. Windows Update can also  
be controlled through the Windows Security Center. For more  
information, see “Protecting Your Computer” in the online  
User Guide.  
Help  
For more information about Windows Update, click Start, then click Help  
and Support. Type w in d ow s u pd ate in the Search Help box, then  
press ENTER.  
Using BigFix  
BigFix monitors your computer for problems and conflicts. It  
automatically gathers information about the latest bugs,  
security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet.  
Whenever BigFix detects a problem, it alerts you by flashing  
the blue taskbar icon. To fix the problem, click on that icon  
to open BigFix.  
To start BigFix:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click BigFix.  
2
To learn more about BigFix, click Help, then click  
Tutorial.  
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.  
64  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
www.gateway.com  
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.  
2
Right-click the drive that you want to check for available  
file space, then click Properties. Drive space  
information appears.  
65  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer  
Deleting unnecessary files  
Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in  
the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space.  
To delete unnecessary files:  
Shortcut  
Start Ö Computer Ö right-click drive Ö Properties Ö  
Disk Cleanup  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog  
box opens.  
2
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 dilalog 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 d isk  
clean u p in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Checking the hard drive for errors  
The Error-checking program examines the hard drive for  
physical flaws and file and folder problems. This program  
corrects file and folder problems and marks flawed areas on  
the hard drive so Windows does not use them.  
66  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
www.gateway.com  
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.  
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, then  
restart your computer.  
After Windows has finished checking the drive for  
errors, it provides a summary of the problems that it  
found.  
4
5
Correct any problems that are found by following the  
on-screen instructions.  
Click OK.  
Help  
For more information about checking the hard drive for errors,  
click Start, then click Help and Support. Type ch eckin g for d isk  
errors in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
67  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer  
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.  
To defragment the hard drive:  
1
2
Disconnect your computer from the network.  
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk  
Defragmenter dialog box opens.  
3
Click Defragment now. This process may take hours to  
complete, depending on the size of the drive being  
defragmented.  
Help  
For more information about defragmenting the hard drive, click  
Start, then click Help and Support. Type defragm en tin g in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
68  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
Backing up files  
Backing up files and removing them from the hard drive frees  
space for new files on the hard drive. It also protects you from  
losing important information if the hard drive fails or you  
accidentally delete files.  
You should back up your files regularly to a writable optical  
disc (if you have a recordable drive). Use a backup device, such  
as a recordable disc drive, to do a complete hard drive backup.  
If you do not have a high-capacity backup device and you  
want to purchase one, you can visit the Accessories Store at  
www.gateway.com.  
To back up files:  
1
Click  
(Start) then click Computer. The Computer  
window opens.  
2
Right-click the drive that you want to back up, click  
Properties, then click the Tools tab.  
3
4
Click Backup Now, then click Run a file backup now.  
Follow the on-screen instructions to select a backup  
storage location and the files and folders to back up.  
Help  
For more information about backing up files, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type backu p in the Search Help box, then  
press ENTER.  
69  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 5: 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 sch ed u ler in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
70  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
Moving from your old  
computer  
Moving with Windows Easy Transfer  
You can move your files, folders, software settings, and user  
account settings (such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings)  
from your old computer to your new one using Windows Easy  
Transfer, providing your old computer uses Windows XP or  
Windows Vista.  
While using Windows Easy Transfer, you will not be able to  
run other tasks on the computers.  
Important  
If your old computer does not use Windows XP or Windows Vista, you  
must manually move your data by using a writeable disc, flash drive, or external  
hard drive.  
To move files and settings from your old computer:  
1
If you want to transfer program settings to your new  
computer, install those programs on the new computer  
before running Windows Easy Transfer. Windows Easy  
Transfer copies only the software’s settings, not the  
software itself, to the new computer.  
2
3
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Accessories, System  
Tools, then click Windows Easy Transfer. The Windows  
Easy Transfer dialog box opens.  
Click Next, click Start a new transfer, then follow the  
on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.  
Help  
For more information about transferring files, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type tran sferrin g files in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
71  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer  
Moving files and settings manually  
You can manually transfer your personal data files by copying  
them to removable media, such as a writable disc, an external  
hard drive, a network location, or a flash drive.  
Finding your documents  
Many programs save your personal data files in the  
Documents or My Documents folder. Look in your old  
computer’s documents folder for personal data files.  
To find files in the documents folder:  
1
In Windows Vista, click  
(Start), then click  
Documents. The Documents folder opens and displays  
many of your saved personal data files. Go to Step 4.  
- OR -  
In Windows XP, click Start, then click My Documents.  
The My Documents window opens and displays many  
of your saved personal data files. Go to Step 4.  
- OR -  
In Windows 98, Windows Me, or Windows 2000,  
double-click the My Computer icon on the desktop. Go  
to the next step.  
2
3
Double-click the C:\ drive icon.  
Double-click the 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.  
Finding other files  
Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data  
files. For more information, see the 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.  
72  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
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.  
73  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer  
74  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Safety guidelines  
First steps  
Troubleshooting  
Recovering your system  
Telephone support  
75  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Safety guidelines  
While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety  
guidelines:  
Warning  
Never remove your computer case cover 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” in your hardware  
reference.  
Warning  
To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your computer  
problem if:  
- Power cords or plugs are damaged  
- Liquid has been spilled into your computer  
- Your computer was dropped  
- The case was damaged  
Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer technician.  
First steps  
If you have problems with your computer, try these things  
first:  
Make sure that the power cord is connected to your  
computer and an AC outlet and that the AC outlet is  
supplying power.  
If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure  
that it is turned on.  
If a peripheral device (such as a keyboard or mouse)  
does not work, make sure that all connections are  
secure.  
Make sure that your hard drive is not full.  
If an error message appears on the screen, write down  
the exact message. The message may help Gateway  
Customer Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem.  
76  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
www.gateway.com  
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 trou blesh ootin g in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order.  
Add-in cards  
The computer does not recognize an add-in card  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Make sure that you have installed the required  
software. For more information, see the documentation  
that came with your add-in card.  
Audio  
CD or DVD drives  
See “Sound” on page 96.  
The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD or DVD  
drive  
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.  
Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed or  
become scratched and cannot be read by the CD or DVD  
drive.  
If you are trying to play a DVD, make sure that you have  
a DVD drive. To identify your drive type, see the “Using  
Drives and Media Files” chapter in the online User Guide.  
Your computer may be experiencing some temporary  
memory problems. Shut down and restart your  
computer.  
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You  
may not be able to play these CDs on your computer.  
77  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
                 
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning  
optical discs” on page 63.  
Restart your computer, then enter the BIOS Setup utility  
by pressing and holding F2 while your computer  
restarts. Make sure that the IDE controllers are enabled.  
Make sure that the drive is configured correctly by  
following the instructions in the drive documentation.  
An audio CD does not produce sound  
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.  
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You  
may not be able to play these CDs on your computer.  
Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For  
more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on  
page 24.  
Make sure that the mute controls are turned off. For  
more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on  
page 24.  
Make sure that the speaker cables are connected  
correctly and securely.  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning  
optical discs” on page 63.  
Reinstall the audio device drivers.  
A DVD movie will not play  
drive type, see the “Using Drives and Media Files”  
chapter in the online User Guide. .  
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.  
Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed or  
become scratched and cannot be read by the DVD drive.  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning  
optical discs” on page 63.  
Reinstall the device driver.  
Make sure that the DVD program has been installed on  
your computer.  
78  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
DVDs and DVD drives contain regional codes that help  
control DVD title exports and help reduce illegal disc  
distribution. To be able to play a DVD, the disc’s regional  
code and your DVD drive’s regional code must match.  
The regional code on your DVD drive is determined by  
your computer’s delivery address. The regional code for  
the United States and Canada is 1. The regional code for  
Mexico is 4. Your DVD drive’s regional code must match  
the regional code for the disc. The regional code for the  
disc is on the disc, disc documentation, or disc  
packaging.  
If the DVD movie does not play, the disc’s regional code  
and your DVD drive’s regional code may not match.  
Diskette drive  
The diskette drive is not recognized  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
You cannot save a file to diskette or you see the message  
“disk is full or write-protected”  
Make sure that the write-protection tab on the  
upper-right corner of the diskette is down  
(unprotected).  
again.  
Make sure that the diskette you are using is  
IBM-compatible.  
Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are  
flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.  
Run Error-checking on the diskette. For more  
information, see “Checking the hard drive for errors”  
on page 66. If errors are detected and corrected, try  
using the diskette again.  
You see an “Access Denied” or “Write protect” error  
message  
Move the write-protection tab in the upper-right  
corner of the diskette down (unprotected).  
The diskette may be full. Delete unnecessary files on  
the diskette and try again.  
Make sure that the diskette you are using is  
IBM-compatible.  
Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are  
flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.  
79  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
You see a “Disk is full” error message  
Delete unnecessary files on the diskette.  
Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are  
flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.  
Run Error Checking on the diskette. For more  
information, see “Checking the hard drive for errors”  
on page 66.  
You see a “Non-system disk” or “Disk error” error message  
Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press  
ENTER.  
Make sure that the diskette you are using is  
IBM-compatible.  
The diskette drive LED is lit continuously  
Remove the diskette from the drive. If the light stays  
on, try restarting your computer.  
DVD drives  
See “CD or DVD drives” on page 77.  
Ethernet  
You cannot see the other computers on your network  
Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the  
Ethernet jack on your computer. Make sure that the  
other end is plugged into a router.  
Make sure that all computers are plugged into a  
powered electrical outlet and turned on.  
Make sure that the router is plugged into a powered  
electrical outlet and turned on. Most routers have lights  
that indicate they are working. For more information,  
see the documentation that came with your router.  
Make sure that all computers on your network have the  
same workgroup name.  
Make sure that all computers are using the same Subnet  
Mask.  
If you assigned IP addresses to the computers, make  
sure that all computers have different IP addresses. For  
home networks, IP addresses should be 192.168.N.N  
where N is a number you assign between 0 and 254.  
The first N should be the same for all computers on your  
network and the second N should be different for all  
computers on your network.  
80  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
www.gateway.com  
The computer does not recognize an add-in Ethernet card  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Make sure that you have installed the required  
software. For more information, see the documentation  
that came with your Ethernet card.  
Reseat the card. For more information, about opening  
your computer case, see your hardware reference. For  
more information about your Ethernet card, see the  
documentation that came with your Ethernet card.  
Your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect  
If your Ethernet network is running slower than you  
expect, check the speed of each Ethernet component.  
For best results, all Ethernet components should be  
standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps  
or 10/100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or  
10/100/1000 Mbps). A mixture of Ethernet, Fast  
Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet components will result  
in your network running at the slowest component  
speed.  
File management  
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.  
A file was accidentally deleted  
If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key, the file  
cannot be restored.  
To restore deleted files:  
1
2
Double-click the Recycle Bin icon.  
Right-click the file you want to restore, then click  
Restore. The file is restored to the place where it  
was originally deleted from.  
If the Recycle Bin was emptied before you try to  
restore a file, the file cannot be restored.  
81  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Hard drive  
You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message  
Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk  
Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files,  
see “Deleting unnecessary files” on page 66.  
Help  
For more information about file management, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type file m an agem en t in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the Recycle Bin  
icon, then clicking Empty Recycle Bin.  
Caution  
All deleted files will be lost when you empty the Recycle Bin.  
Save your files to another drive. If the hard drive is full,  
copy any files not regularly used to backup media, then  
delete them from the hard drive.  
You see a “Data error” message  
This may be the result of a defective area on the hard  
drive. To fix hard drive problems, run the Error checking  
program. For instructions on fixing hard drive problems,  
see “Checking the hard drive for errors” on page 66.  
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.  
82  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
Internet  
See also “Modem (dial-up)” on page 89.  
You cannot connect to the Internet  
If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the  
modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not  
the Ethernet network jack. See your hardware reference  
or setup poster to make sure that the connections have  
been made correctly.  
- OR -  
If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure  
that the modem cable is plugged into the Ethernet  
hardware reference or setup poster to make sure  
that the connections have been made correctly.  
Make sure that your account with your Internet service  
provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP  
technical support for help.  
Make sure that you do not have a problem with your  
modem. For more information, “Modem (dial-up)” on  
page 89.  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting Internet  
connections, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type  
trou blesh ootin g con n ection s in the Search Help box, then  
press ENTER.  
You see an “Unable to locate host” message and are unable  
to browse the Internet  
This problem can occur when you have typed a URL  
(Web address) incorrectly, you have lost your Internet  
connection, or your ISP is having technical difficulties.  
Double-check the URL or try a different URL. If the error  
message still appears, disconnect from the ISP  
connection and close your browser, then reconnect and  
open the browser. If you still get the error, your ISP may  
be having technical difficulties.  
83  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Connecting to a Web site takes too long  
Many factors can affect Internet performance:  
The condition of the telephone lines in your residence  
or at your local telephone service  
The condition of the Internet computers to which you  
connect and the number of users accessing those  
computers  
The complexity of graphics and multimedia on Web  
pages  
Having multiple Web browsers open, performing  
multiple downloads, and having multiple programs  
open on your computer  
People are sending you e-mail messages, but you have not  
received any mail  
Click the receive button in your e-mail program.  
Make sure that your account with your Internet service  
provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP for  
technical support.  
Keyboard  
The keyboard does not work  
Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in  
correctly. For more information, see the poster that  
came with your computer.  
Remove all extension cables and switch boxes.  
Clean the keyboard by using an aerosol can of air with  
a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint  
trapped under the keys.  
Try a keyboard that you know works to make sure that  
the keyboard port works.  
Reinstall the keyboard device driver.  
A keyboard character keeps repeating or you see a  
“keyboard stuck” or “key failure” error message  
Make sure that nothing is resting on the keyboard.  
Make sure that a key is not stuck. Press each key to  
loosen a key that might be stuck, then restart your  
computer.  
84  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
Liquid spilled in the keyboard  
If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your  
computer and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard  
and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard  
dry before using it again. If the keyboard does not work  
after it dries, you may need to replace it.  
Media Center  
To view Media Center troubleshooting information that is not  
covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site  
at www.gateway.com.  
Help  
For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type Win d ow s Med ia Cen ter in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV  
Many factors, such as the display type, quality of the video  
source, type of connection used, quality of video cables,  
display device screen resolution, size of TV, age of the TV, or  
the type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan), can affect the  
video quality significantly:  
Display type—The Media Center is best viewed on  
display devices that were offered with the Media Center  
computer when you purchased it from Gateway. Other  
types of display devices, including retail TVs, may  
provide lower quality video. If you did not order a  
display device when you purchased your Media Center  
computer, a progressive scan display device with a VGA  
input is the best choice.  
Quality of video source—The quality of the video  
signal coming into the Media Center computer has an  
affect on the video quality. The video displayed from the  
Media Center is only as good as the source video signal.  
Cable, digital cable, and satellite usually provide better  
quality than an antenna.  
Type of connection used—You can connect the Media  
Center computer video output to a TV. However, the  
connection type has an affect on the video quality.  The  
Media Center has two video outputs:  
VGA—If your TV includes a VGA port, connect the  
VGA cable from the Media Center computer’s VGA  
(monitor) port to the TV’s VGA In port for the best  
quality. Many TVs do not have a VGA port.  
85  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
S-Video—If your TV does not have a VGA port, but  
includes an S-Video port, connect the S-Video cable  
from the Media Center computer’s S-Video Out port  
to the TV’s S-Video In port. S-Video display quality  
is usually good for TV images. The display quality for  
the Media Center computer functions, however, is  
not as good as VGA output. S-Video display output  
is not optimized for computer video display.  
Quality of video cables—Poor quality or the incorrect  
type of video cables can cause problems and affect the  
video quality. Gateway recommends using high-quality  
video cables that can be purchased from the Gateway  
Accessory Store.  
Note: Cable connections must be made correctly for  
optimal video quality. A poor cable connection can  
lower video quality.  
Screen resolution—By default, if your display device  
was purchased with the Media Center computer, the  
computer uses a screen resolution of 1024 × 768 for  
computer monitors and 800 × 600 for the Gateway  
42-inch Plasma TV. Many TVs cannot display this high  
of a resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the  
picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may  
need to lower the Media Center screen resolution to  
800 × 600 or 640 × 480. For more information about  
changing the screen resolution, see the “Customizing”  
chapter in the online User Guide.  
Size of display device—Small computer monitors for  
standard computer applications are generally not  
optimized for motion video playback. Although they  
offer excellent resolutions and refresh rates, they are  
designed to make static white backgrounds with black  
text look readable. Some small display devices do not  
make colorful motion video look its best. Generally,  
video will look better on a larger display device.  
Age of the TV—Newer TVs usually have more  
advanced features, produce a better quality picture,  
and support higher screen resolutions. The Media  
Center video display will likely be better on a newer  
model TV.  
86  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
Type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan)  
Many TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced video  
displays a video frame with two passes of alternating  
scan lines. The TV screen first displays the video  
image odd lines one at a time, sequentially from top  
to bottom, then it fills in the other half of the video  
image with the even lines. Because most TVs use this  
interlaced method to display the picture on the  
screen, a standard interlaced analog TV will most  
likely flicker when displaying thin lines and small text.  
An interlaced video display device will produce a  
lower quality display, especially when viewing and  
using the Media Center computer functions.  
Progressive scan video displays a video frame with  
one pass of sequential scan lines. A progressive scan  
TV displays the entire picture, drawn sequentially  
from top to bottom, without the odd/even  
interlacing. This results in a fuller, sharper picture and  
better display quality for viewing and using the  
Media Center computer functions. The progressive  
scan picture is also brighter and easier on your eyes.  
You need to configure your Media Center computer to  
output to a TV  
Your Media Center computer detects whether you are  
using a VGA or an S-Video display device and  
automatically changes the display settings for the type  
of display device you are using. For more information,  
see the Gateway support Web site at:  
www.gateway.com.  
You want to change display settings to get better TV or DVD  
image quality  
Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and  
saturation. For more information, see the Gateway  
support Web site at:  
www.gateway.com.  
You want to know whether you can burn programs that  
were recorded with your Media Center computer to a DVD  
Yes, you can. The 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 the Media Center itself.  
87  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
You want to know whether you can play recorded  
programs on other computers  
Yes, you can. A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be  
replayed on another Media Center computer or on a  
non-Media Center computer that has a DVD player and  
DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). The  
non-Media Center computer must also have at lease  
Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows  
Media Player 9 or later, and the Windows patch  
Q810243 Update.  
You want to know whether you can play recorded  
programs on your home DVD player  
Yes, you can. DVDs recorded with the Media Center can  
be played on a home DVD player.  
You get a “Download Error” message when the Media  
Center tries to update the Program Guide:  
You must be connected to the Internet to update the  
Program Guide. Make sure that your Internet account  
is set up and connected to the Media Center computer.  
Memory  
Help  
For more information about troubleshooting memory errors, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type m em ory error in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
You see a “Memory error” message  
Use a third-party diagnostic program to help determine  
if a memory module is failing.  
You see a “Not enough memory” error message  
Close all programs, then restart your computer.  
Memory card reader  
Drive letters for the memory card slots do not appear in  
the My Computer window  
Reboot your computer.  
88  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
Modem (cable or DSL)  
See the documentation that came with your modem for  
additional troubleshooting information.  
Modem (dial-up)  
See also “Internet” on page 83.  
Your modem does not dial or does not connect  
Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the  
modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. See  
your hardware reference or setup poster to make sure  
that the connections have been made correctly.  
Make sure that your computer is connected to the  
telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone.  
Make sure that the modem cable is less than 6 feet  
(1.8 meters) long.  
Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your  
telephone line, then check for a dial tone by plugging  
a working telephone into the telephone wall jack.  
If you have additional telephone services such as call  
waiting, call messaging, or voice mail, make sure that  
all messages are cleared and call waiting is disabled  
before using the modem. Contact your telephone  
service to get the correct code to temporarily disable  
the service. Also make sure that the modem dialing  
properties are set correctly.  
To check the dialing properties:  
1
Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control  
Panel window opens.  
2
Click Hardware and Sound, then click Phone and  
Modem Options. The Phone and Modem Options  
dialog box opens.  
3
If this is the first time you have accessed this  
category, the Location Information dialog box  
opens. Enter the information for your area, then  
click OK.  
4
5
Click the Dialing Rules tab, click the location from  
which you are dialing, then click Edit.  
Make sure that all settings are correct.  
89  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Help  
For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type dialin g in the Search Help box, then  
press ENTER.  
Disconnect any answering machine, fax machine, or  
printer that is on the same line as the modem. Do not  
connect these devices to the same telephone line as the  
modem.  
Make sure that you are not using a digital, rollover, or  
PBX line. These lines do not work with your modem.  
Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping  
sounds). Line noise is a common problem that can cause  
the modem to connect at a slower rate, abort  
downloads, or even disconnect. The faster the modem,  
the less line noise it can tolerate and still work correctly.  
Listen to the line using your telephone. Dial a single  
number (such as 1). When the dial tone stops, listen for  
line noise. Wiggle the modem cable to see if that makes  
a difference. Make sure that the connectors are free  
from corrosion and all screws in the wall or telephone  
wall jack are secure.  
You can also call your telephone service and have the  
telephone line checked for noise or low line levels.  
Try another telephone line (either a different telephone  
number in your house or a telephone line at a different  
location). If you can connect on this line, call your  
telephone service.  
Try connecting with the modem at a lower connection  
speed. If reducing the connect speed lets you connect,  
call your telephone service. The telephone line may be  
too noisy.  
You cannot connect to the Internet  
The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact  
your ISP for technical support.  
See if the modem works with a different  
communications program. The problem may be with  
just one program.  
Review the troubleshooting information under  
“Internet” on page 83.  
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.  
90  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
www.gateway.com  
If your computer has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you  
can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K. If your computer  
has a v.92 modem, the speed at which you can upload data  
is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads.  
Your fax communications program only sends and receives  
faxes at 14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem  
Current fax technology only supports a maximum send  
and receive rate of 14,400 bps.  
The modem is not recognized by your computer  
Make sure that the line connected to the modem is  
working and plugged into the appropriate port on your  
computer. See your hardware reference or setup poster  
to make sure that the connections have been made  
correctly.  
If the modem shares the telephone line with another  
device, make sure that the telephone line is not in use  
(for example, someone is on the telephone, or another  
modem is in use).  
Use the modem cable that came with your computer.  
Some telephone cables do not meet cable standards and  
may cause problems with the connection.  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Run Windows modem diagnostics.  
To run modem diagnostics:  
1
2
Close all open programs.  
Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control  
Panel window opens.  
3
4
5
Click Hardware and Sound, then click Phone and  
Modem Options. The Phone and Modem Options  
dialog box opens.  
Click the Modems tab, click your modem, then click  
Properties. The Modem Properties dialog box  
opens.  
Click the Diagnostic tab, then click Query Modem.  
If information about the modem appears, the  
modem passed diagnostics. If no modem  
information is available, a white screen appears with  
no data, or if you get an error such as port already  
open or the modem has failed to respond, the  
modem did not pass diagnostics.  
91  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Help  
For more information about modem troubleshooting, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type m od em trou blesh ootin g in the  
Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
The modem is noisy when it dials and connects  
When your modem tries to connect to another modem, it  
begins handshaking. Handshaking is a digital “getting  
acquainted” conversation between the two modems that  
establishes connection speeds and communication protocols.  
You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems  
first connect. If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can  
turn down the modem volume.  
To turn down the modem volume:  
1
Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control  
Panel window opens.  
2
Click Hardware and Sound, then click Phone and  
Modem Options. The Phone and Modem Options  
dialog box opens.  
3
4
5
Click the Modems tab, click the modem you want  
to adjust, then click Properties.  
Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker  
volume control.  
Click OK twice to close the Phone and Modem  
Options dialog box.  
Monitor  
The screen resolution is not correct  
Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings  
dialog box. For more information, see the “Customizing”  
chapter in the online User Guide.  
The computer is running but there is no picture  
Make sure that the monitor is plugged in and turned on.  
If the monitor is turned on, the power LED should be lit.  
Adjust the brightness and contrast controls to the  
center position.  
Make sure that the monitor cable is connected to the  
video port on the back of your computer.  
Check the cable for bent or damaged pins.  
92  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
www.gateway.com  
Reinstall the device driver.  
Connect a monitor that you know works to your  
computer.  
The color is not uniform  
Make sure that the monitor warms up for at least  
30 minutes before making a final judgment about color  
uniformity.  
Make sure that:  
Non-shielded speakers are not placed too close to  
the monitor.  
The monitor is not positioned too close to another  
monitor, electric fan, fluorescent light, metal shelf,  
or laser printer.  
You demagnetize the screen using the monitor’s  
degauss feature. For more information on degauss,  
see your monitor’s documentation.  
Why is there a horizontal line or wire visible across the  
monitor screen?  
Your monitor may use a thin damper wire, located  
approximately 1/3 of the way down from the upper screen  
edge and 1/3 of the way up from the lower screen edge, to  
stabilize the internal aperture grille. These wires are most  
obvious when the monitor displays a white background. The  
aperture grille allows more light to pass through the screen  
for brighter colors and greater luminescence. The damper  
wire is a critical part of the overall monitor design and does  
not negatively affect the monitor's function.  
The text on the display is dim or difficult to read  
Adjust the brightness and contrast controls.  
Use the monitor degauss feature (see your monitor  
documentation) or turn off your computer and monitor,  
leave them off for at least a half hour, then restart your  
computer.  
Change the display settings. For more information, see  
the “Customizing” chapter in the online User Guide.  
Move the monitor away from sources of electrical  
interference, such as televisions, unshielded speakers,  
microwaves, fluorescent lights, and metal beams or  
shelves.  
For more information about display types, see your monitor  
and video card documentation.  
93  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Help  
For more information about changing the screen resolution, click Start,  
then click Help and Support. Type screen resolu tion in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
Mouse  
The mouse does not work  
Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly.  
Shut down and restart your computer.  
Remove all extension cables and switch boxes.  
Try a mouse you know is working to make sure that the  
mouse port works.  
The mouse works erratically  
If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across  
the computer display or becomes difficult to control  
precisely, cleaning the mouse will likely improve its  
accuracy.  
Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean,  
damp cloth. Make sure that the optical sensor is clean  
and free of debris.  
Networks  
You cannot connect to your company network  
Every network is unique. Contact your company computer  
department or network administrator for help. For more  
information about setting up a network in your home, see the  
“Networking Your Computer” chapter in the online User  
Guide.  
Help  
For more information about network troubleshooting, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type n etw ork trou blesh ootin g in the Search  
Help box, then press ENTER.  
Passwords  
Your computer does not accept your password  
Make sure that CAPS LOCK is turned off, then retype the  
password.  
94  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
www.gateway.com  
Power  
Printer  
Your computer will not turn on  
Make sure that the power cord is connected to an  
AC power source and to your computer, and that your  
computer is turned on.  
If your computer is plugged into a surge protector,  
make sure that the surge protector is connected  
securely to an electrical outlet, turned on, and working  
correctly. To test the outlet, plug a working device, such  
as a lamp, into the outlet and turn it on.  
Make sure that the power cord is free from cuts or  
damage. Replace any damaged cables.  
The printer will not turn on  
Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have  
an online/offline button that you may need to press.  
Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an  
AC power source.  
The printer is on but will not print  
Check the cable between the printer and your  
computer. Make sure that it is connected to the correct  
port.  
Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have  
an online/offline button that you may need to press so  
the printer can start printing. Press the button to put  
the printer online.  
Check the cable for bent or broken pins.  
If the printer you want to print to is not the default  
printer, make sure that you have selected it in the  
printer setup.  
To set a default printer:  
1
Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control  
Panel window opens.  
2
Click Hardware and Sound, then click the Change  
Default Printer option under the Printers  
category. The Printer window opens.  
3
Right-click the printer you want to be the default  
printer, then click Set as Default Printer.  
95  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Reinstall the printer driver. See the guide that came with  
your printer for instructions on installing the printer  
driver.  
You see a “Printer queue is full” error message  
Make sure that the printer is not set to work offline.  
To make sure that the printer is not set to work offline:  
1
2
3
Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control  
Panel window opens.  
Click Hardware and Sound, then click the Printers  
category. The Printers window opens.  
Right-click the printer you want to use. If the menu  
shows a check mark next to Use Printer Offline,  
click Use Printer Offline to clear the check mark.  
Wait until files have been printed before sending  
additional files to the printer.  
If you print large files or many files at one time, you  
may want to add additional memory to the printer. See  
the printer documentation for instructions for adding  
additional memory.  
You see a “Printer is out of paper” error message  
After adding paper, make sure that the printer is online. Most  
printers have an online/offline button that you need to press  
after adding paper.  
Help  
For more information about printer troubleshooting, click Start, then  
click Help and Support. Type p rin ter trou blesh ooter in the Search Help  
box, then press ENTER.  
Sound  
You are not getting sound from the speakers  
Make sure that the speakers are turned on.  
Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For  
page 24.  
Make sure that mute controls are turned off. For more  
information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 24.  
If you are using external speakers, see the speaker  
setup poster to check your speaker connections.  
Make sure that the universal jacks are configured  
correctly. For more information, see “Configuring the  
audio jacks” on page 26.  
96  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
Help  
For more information about sound troubleshooting, click Start, then click  
Help and Support. Type sou n d trou blesh ooter in the Search Help box,  
then press ENTER.  
Recovering your system  
Most computer problems can be solved by following the  
information in “Troubleshooting” on page 143 or in the  
technical support pages at www.gateway.com.  
Problem-solving may also involve re-installing some or all of  
the computer’s software (also called recovering or restoring  
your system). Gateway provides everything you need to  
Caution  
To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you  
For instructions, see “Preparing for software and device driver recovery” on  
page 98.  
pre-installed at the factory, see “Recovering  
pre-installed software and drivers” on page 98.  
To return your system to a previous condition when it  
was working correctly, see “Using Microsoft System  
Restore” on page 104.  
To completely recover your system to its factory  
condition, see “Recovering your system to its factory  
condition” on page 107.  
If you upgrade or exchange your hard drive, or if your hard  
drive is completely erased or corrupted, your only option for  
system recovery may be to reinstall Windows from the  
Windows DVD, then recover your pre-installed software and  
options.)  
To re-install Windows using the Windows DVD, see  
“Recovering your system using the Windows DVD” on  
page 108.  
To re-install your pre-installed software and device  
drivers using recovery discs, see “Recovering  
pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”  
on page 102.  
97  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers  
You can perform a partial recovery by recovering the software  
and device drivers that were pre-installed at the factory. If you  
need to recover software that did not come pre-installed on  
your system, you need to follow that software’s installation  
instructions.  
You can recover pre-installed software and drivers from a set  
of recovery discs (you must create the discs) or by using  
Gateway Recovery Center.  
Preparing for software and device driver recovery  
You can usually recover your pre-installed software and  
drivers from your hard drive. However, if you ever re-install  
Windows from the Windows DVD or install a new hard drive,  
you will need to recover your pre-installed software and  
drivers using a set of software and driver recovery discs.  
Because these discs do not come with your computer, you  
should create your own set.  
Caution  
Although you may not be expecting to need recovery discs, we  
recommend that you prepare for any eventuality and create a set of recovery  
discs while you have the opportunity.  
98  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
You should create a set of discs for recovering your  
pre-installed software and device drivers, in case you will  
need to use them later for a complete system recovery. (Your  
computer must have a recordable disc drive to perform this  
procedure.)  
To create discs for recovering pre-installed software  
and drivers:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery  
Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The  
Gateway Recovery Center opens.  
2
3
Click Applications and drivers external media, then  
click Next. The What would you like to do? dialog box  
opens.  
Click Create system recovery discs, then click Next.  
99  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
4
Insert a blank, recordable disc into a recordable disc  
drive, then click Next. If an AutoPlay dialog box opens,  
click the x in the upper-right corner to close it.  
A dialog box opens that tells you the number of blank  
discs you will need to create a full set of recovery discs.  
5
If you have enough blank discs of the specified type,  
click I have enough discs, then click Next. If you do  
not have enough discs, choose a different disc type, or  
click Cancel.  
The disc recording begins. Label the discs as they are  
completed.  
Important  
Use a permanent marker to label each disc “Software and Driver  
Recovery,” along with a short description of which computer the discs  
are for. If you are recording multiple discs, as you remove each disc  
from the drive, use the marker to label each disc 1 of x, 2 of x, 3 of  
x, and so on.  
Tip  
After a recovery disc is created, your computer names the disc  
Recovery13 for disc 1 of a 3-disc set, Recovery23 for disc 2, and  
so on.  
6
7
If multiple discs are required, insert the additional blank  
disks when prompted.  
When the process is finished, the Congratulations!  
window opens.  
8
9
Click Finish.  
Remove your final disc, then label all of the discs and  
store them in a safe place.  
100  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using  
Gateway Recovery Center  
To recover specific drivers and software:  
1
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery  
Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The  
Gateway Recovery Center opens.  
Important  
If you have recently reinstalled Windows or installed a new hard  
drive, and your Start menu does not contain Gateway Recovery Center  
as an option, you must recover your software and drivers using  
software and driver recovery discs you have created. For instructions,  
see “Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs”  
on page 102.  
2
To recover software that was pre-installed, click  
Programs, then click Application recovery.  
3
To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click  
Hardware, then click Device driver recovery.  
101  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
4
Click the software or driver you want to recover, then  
click Next.  
Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using  
recovery discs  
If you created a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, each disc  
contains a unique set of software and drivers. If a recovery  
disc does not offer the software or driver you need to recover,  
try another disc.  
To recover software and drivers using recovery discs:  
1
Insert a software and driver recovery disc into a CD/DVD  
drive. If an AutoPlay dialog box appears,  
click Run Grc_Vista.exe.  
The disc’s Gateway Recovery Center starts.  
102  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
www.gateway.com  
2
To recover pre-installed software, click Application  
recovery, click the software you want to recover, then  
click Next.  
- OR -  
To recover pre-installed device drivers, click Device  
driver recovery, click the type of driver you want to  
recover, then click Next.  
3
If the software or driver is not shown on the list, and  
you have a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, close  
Gateway Recovery Center and try another disc.  
103  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Using Microsoft System Restore  
Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of  
your system settings and saves them as restore points. In  
most cases of hard-to-resolve software problems, you can  
return to one of these restore points to get your system  
running again.  
Windows automatically creates an additional restore point  
each day, and also each time you install software or device  
drivers. You can also create a restore point manually. For  
instructions, see “Manually creating a restore point” on  
page 105.  
To restore using Microsoft System Restore:  
1
Click  
(Start), Control Panel, System and  
Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center.  
The Backup and Restore Center opens.  
104  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
www.gateway.com  
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.  
Manually creating a restore point  
To manually create a restore point:  
1
Click  
(Start), Control Panel, System and  
Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center.  
The Backup and Restore Center opens.  
105  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
2
On the left side of the window, click Create a restore  
point or change settings, then click Next. The System  
Properties dialog box opens to the System Protection  
tab.  
3
Click Create. The Create a restore point dialog box  
opens.  
4
5
Type a description for the restore point (such as the date  
and time), then click Create. The restore point is  
created.  
Click OK.  
106  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
Recovering your system to its factory  
condition  
If your computer’s problems are not solved by any of the  
other recovery options, you may need to recover its hard drive  
to its factory condition. This process is called a factory  
recovery.  
Caution  
A complete factory recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then  
reinstalls Windows and any pre-installed software and device drivers. If you are  
able to access important files on your hard drive, back them up now.  
To delete everything on your hard drive and re-install all  
factory software:  
1
2
3
If you can still run Windows:  
a
Click  
(Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery  
Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The  
Gateway Recovery Center opens.  
b
Click Recovery, then click Next. Your computer  
restarts.  
If you cannot run Windows:  
a
Turn on or restart your computer.  
b
While the computer is starting up, repeatedly press  
F8 until the Recovery Options screen opens. If  
Windows loads instead, restart the computer and try  
again.  
Press the arrow keys on your keyboard to select Repair  
Your Computer, then press ENTER.  
Gateway System Recovery starts, and the System  
Recovery Options dialog box opens.  
4
5
Select a language and keyboard layout, then click Next.  
Click the User name box to select a Windows user  
account, click in the Password box and type the user  
account’s password (if any), then click Next. The System  
Recovery Options menu opens.  
6
7
Click Restore Application. The Welcome to Gateway  
System Recovery window opens.  
Click Next, click Full factory recovery, then click Next.  
Caution  
Continuing with the full factory recovery will delete everything  
on your hard drive. If your computer has multiple hard drives, recovery  
will delete everything on only the primary (operating system) hard drive.  
If your computer’s hard drive has multiple partitions, recovery will  
delete everything on only the operating system partition.  
107  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
8
9
Click Yes, then click Next. The Factory image recovery  
window opens, which shows you the progress of the  
system recovery.  
When recovery is finished, the Recovery is complete  
window opens.  
Click Finish, then click Restart. Your computer restarts  
into its original factory condition.  
Recovering your system using the  
Windows DVD  
If you install a new hard drive or completely re-format your  
original hard drive, you must recover your system using the  
Windows Vista operating system DVD. You will also need to  
recover your computer’s pre-installed software and device  
drivers.  
To completely re-install Windows:  
1
Insert the Windows DVD into one of your computer’s  
DVD-capable drives, then restart your computer.  
2
When the prompt “Press any key to boot from CD  
or DVD” appears, press any key on your keyboard. A list  
3
4
Press the arrow keys to select the drive containing the  
Windows DVD, then press ENTER and follow the  
on-screen instructions.  
After Windows is completely re-installed, use your  
software and driver recovery discs to recover your  
computer’s pre-installed software and device drivers.  
For instructions, see “Recovering pre-installed software  
and drivers using recovery discs” on page 102.  
Telephone support  
Before calling Gateway Customer Care  
If you have a technical problem with your computer, follow  
these recommendations before contacting Gateway Customer  
Care:  
108  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
www.gateway.com  
Make sure that your computer is connected correctly to  
a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use  
a surge protector, make sure that it is turned on.  
If a peripheral device, such as a keyboard or mouse,  
does not appear to work, make sure that all cables are  
plugged in securely.  
If you have recently installed hardware or software,  
make sure that you have installed it according to the  
instructions provided with it. If you did not purchase the  
hardware or software from Gateway, see the  
manufacturer’s documentation and technical support  
resources.  
If you have “how to” questions about using a program,  
see:  
Online Help  
Printed documentation  
The Microsoft Windows documentation  
The software publisher’s Web site  
See the troubleshooting section of this chapter.  
Warning  
To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your  
computer problem if:  
- Power cords or plugs are damaged  
- Liquid has been spilled into your computer  
- Your computer was dropped  
- The case was damaged  
Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer  
technician.  
Have your customer ID, serial number, and order  
number available, along with a detailed description of  
your problem, including the exact text of any error  
messages, and the steps you have taken.  
Make sure that your computer is nearby at the time of  
your call. The technician may have you follow  
troubleshooting steps.  
Telephone numbers  
Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, Customer  
Care, and information services.  
Automated troubleshooting system  
Service description  
How to reach  
Use an automated menu system and your telephone  
keypad to find answers to common problems.  
800-846-2118  
(US and Canada)  
109  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
Telephone numbers  
You can access the following services through your telephone  
to get answers to your questions:  
Resource  
Service description  
Answers by  
Gateway  
Get tutorial assistance for  
hardware and software issues.  
www.gateway.com/answers  
Gateway  
Customer  
Care  
Talk to a Gateway Customer  
Care representative about a  
non-tutorial technical support  
question.  
(See “Before calling Gateway  
Customer Care” on page 108  
before calling)  
Gateway Customer Care  
telephone numbers vary by  
country or region. See the  
label on the front or side of  
your computer.  
605-232-2191  
TDD Customer Care (for hearing  
impaired) is available:  
Weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.  
Pacific Time  
Weekends 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.  
Pacific Time  
Sales,  
Get information about available  
systems, pricing, orders, billing  
statements, warranty service, or  
other non-technical issues.  
800-846-2000 (US)  
888-387-7752 (Canada)  
accounting,  
and  
warranty  
Self-help  
If you have how-to questions about using your  
Gateway-supplied hardware or software, see the following  
resources:  
The printed or online documentation that came with  
your hardware or software. In many cases, additional  
product information and online documentation for  
Gateway-supplied hardware can be found in our Web  
site's Documentation Library.  
This user guide and the hardware reference.  
The software publisher’s Web site.  
Help  
For more how-to information about Windows, click Start, then click Help  
and Support. Type p ractice in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.  
110  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
www.gateway.com  
Tutoring  
Answers by GatewaySM is a telephone service that provides  
answers to all of your “How do I...” questions on Gateway  
computers. For more information, go to  
www.gateway.com/answers.  
Training  
Gateway provides the following computer-based training:  
Resource  
Service description  
For more information  
Gateway  
Learning  
Libraries  
A variety of courses and  
tutorials are available on CD.  
Select from several  
www.gateway.com/training  
easy-to-use learning libraries.  
Online  
More than 450 online courses  
www.learnwithgateway.com  
Trainingfrom are available from  
Learn With  
Gateway  
Learn With Gateway. All you  
have to do is go online and log  
in. You select the subject  
matter, and the learning  
format (self-paced tutorials or  
virtual classrooms), all from  
the comfort of your computer.  
111  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting  
112  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Important safety information  
Regulatory compliance statements  
Environmental information  
Notices  
113  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Appendix A: Legal Notices  
Important safety information  
Warning  
Always follow these instructions to help guard against personal injury  
and damage to your Gateway system.  
Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of  
information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important  
that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.  
Setting up your system  
Read and follow all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation  
before you operate your system. Retain all safety and operating instructions for future  
use.  
Do not use this product near water or a heat source such as a radiator.  
Set up the system on a stable work surface.  
The product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the  
rating label.  
If your computer has a voltage selector switch, make sure that the switch is in the  
proper position for your area. The voltage selector switch is set at the factory to the  
correct voltage.  
Openings in the computer case are provided for ventilation. Do not block or cover these  
openings. Make sure you provide adequate space, at least 6 inches (15 cm), around the  
system for ventilation when you set up your work area. Never insert objects of any  
kind into the computer ventilation openings.  
Some products are equipped with a three-wire power cord to make sure that the  
product is properly grounded when in use. The plug on this cord will fit only into a  
grounding-type outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into  
an outlet, contact an electrician to install the appropriate outlet.  
If you use an extension cord with this system, make sure that the total ampere rating  
on the products plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the extension cord  
ampere rating.  
If your system is fitted with a TV Tuner, cable, or satellite receiver card, make sure  
that the antenna or cable system is electrically grounded to provide some protection  
against voltage surges and buildup of static charges.  
114  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
www.gateway.com  
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  
telecommunications line cord.  
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:  
115  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Appendix A: Legal Notices  
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.  
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.  
116  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
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.  
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.  
117  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Appendix A: Legal Notices  
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.  
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.  
118  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
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  
119  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Appendix A: Legal Notices  
Environmental information  
The product you have purchased contains extracted natural resources that have been used in  
the manufacturing process. This product may contain substances known to be hazardous to  
the environment or to human health.  
To prevent releases of harmful substances into the environment and to maximize the use of our  
natural resources, Gateway provides the following information on how you can responsibly  
recycle or reuse most of the materials in your “end of life” product.  
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (commonly known as WEEE) should never  
be disposed of in the municipal waste stream (residential garbage collection). The  
“Crossed-Out Waste Bin” label affixed to this product is your reminder to dispose  
of your “end of life” product properly.  
Substances such as glass, plastics, and certain chemical compounds are highly  
recoverable, recyclable, and reusable. You can do your part for the environment  
by following these simple steps:  
When your electrical or electronic equipment is no longer useful to you, “take it back”  
to your local or regional waste collection administration for recycling.  
In some cases, your “end of life” product may be “traded in” for credit towards the  
purchase of new Gateway equipment. Call Gateway to see if this program is available  
in your area.  
If you need further assistance in recycling, reusing, or trading in your “end of life”  
product, you may contact us at the Customer Care number listed in your product’s  
user guide and we will be glad to help you with your effort.  
Finally, we suggest that you practice other environmentally friendly actions by understanding  
and using the energy-saving features of this product (where applicable), recycling the inner and  
outer packaging (including shipping containers) this product was delivered in, and by disposing  
of or recycling used batteries properly.  
With your help, we can reduce the amount of natural resources needed to produce electrical  
and electronic equipment, minimize the use of landfills for the disposal of “end of life” products,  
and generally improve our quality of life by ensuring that potentially hazardous substances are  
not released into the environment and are disposed of properly.  
Notices  
Copyright © 2007 Gateway, Inc.  
All Rights Reserved  
7565 Irvine Center Drive  
Irvine, CA 92618 USA  
All Rights Reserved  
This publication is protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of it may be  
reproduced or transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior consent in writing from  
Gateway.  
The information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate.  
However, changes are made periodically. These changes are incorporated in newer publication  
editions. Gateway may improve and/or change products described in this publication at any time.  
Due to continuing system improvements, Gateway is not responsible for inaccurate information  
which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates, consult the Gateway Web site  
at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special,  
exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this  
manual, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.  
In the interest of continued product development, Gateway reserves the right to make  
improvements in this manual and the products it describes at any time, without notices or  
obligation.  
120  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
www.gateway.com  
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.  
121  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Appendix A: Legal Notices  
122  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Index  
A
C
AC power connector  
accessories  
8
connecting  
9
safety precautions 115  
Caps Lock indicator 20, 21  
activity indicators  
cards  
See indicators  
adding expansion 52  
replacing expansion 52  
application buttons 21  
application key 20, 21  
arrow keys 20, 21  
audio  
audio in jack  
9
case  
center speaker jack 10  
configuring jacks 26  
front speaker jack 10  
headphone jack 10  
opening 31  
CD  
cleaning 63  
line in jack  
9
line out jack 10  
microphone jack 6, 7, 10  
muting 24  
adding 37  
locating drive  
replacing 37  
rear speaker jack  
S/PDIF jack 10  
side speaker jack  
9
troubleshooting 77  
9
subwoofer jack 10  
3
audio CD  
cleaning  
cleaning 63  
case 62  
audio in jack  
audio playback buttons 19, 21  
9
B
keyboard 62  
mouse 63  
backing up files 69  
battery  
replacing 35  
notebook exterior 61  
screen 63  
bezel  
removing 32  
replacing 32  
clicking 23  
closing  
Blu-ray  
broadband connection  
connecting  
buttons  
See keys and buttons  
6
computer case 32  
front bezel 32  
unresponsive program 18  
9
configuring  
audio jacks 26  
123  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Index  
speakers 26  
D
connecting  
modem 16  
defragmenting hard drive 68  
deleting files and folders 66  
PS/2 keyboard 10  
PS/2 mouse  
9
to Ethernet network 9, 15  
to Internet  
to network 9, 15  
connections  
audio in  
9
digital camera  
locating USB port 6, 10  
9
center speaker 10  
digital camera 6, 10, 26  
digital video camera 7, 9, 26  
Ethernet 9, 15  
DIMM  
external audio 9, 10  
external speakers 10  
Firewire 7, 9, 26  
front speaker 10  
headphone 10  
i.Link 7, 9  
IEEE 1394 7, 9  
keyboard 6, 10  
line in 9, 10  
line out 10  
2
microphone 6, 7, 10  
modem 10, 16  
mouse 6, 9, 10  
network 9, 15  
drives  
power  
8
power cord  
8
printer 6, 10  
troubleshooting 77, 79, 80,  
82  
PS/2 keyboard 10  
PS/2 mouse  
9
rear speakers  
9
scanner 6, 10  
side speaker  
9
subwoofer 10  
DVD  
universal 26, 96  
USB 6, 10  
cleaning 63  
troubleshooting 77, 80  
video camera 7, 9  
Zip drive 6, 10  
DVD drive  
adding 37  
Customer Service  
Accounting 110  
Sales 110  
replacing 37  
troubleshooting 77, 80  
Warranty 110  
E
editing buttons 19, 21  
124  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
electrostatic discharge (ESD) 30  
ergonomics 12  
Error-checking 66  
backing up files 69  
Ethernet jack  
9
deleting files and folders 66  
replacing 40  
scanning for errors 66  
Ethernet network  
connecting 15  
jack 15  
expansion card  
HD DVD drive  
6
adding 52  
replacing 52  
heat sink  
external audio jack 9, 10  
F
fan  
I
replacing 45, 46  
IEEE  
faxes  
indicators  
troubleshooting 91  
files  
Scroll Lock 20, 21  
backing up 69  
deleting 66  
opening 23  
searching for 72  
transferring 72  
troubleshooting 81  
types 72  
devices 26  
front bezel 32  
finding  
files and folders 72  
Firewire port 7, 9, 26  
folders  
printer 26  
opening 23  
fragmentation 68  
front bezel  
scanner 26  
side panel 31  
system battery 35  
removing 32  
replacing 32  
Internet  
buttons 19  
front I/O panel  
replacing 51  
troubleshooting 83, 90  
function keys 19, 21  
J
G
jacks  
See connections  
Gateway contact information  
3
K
H
keyboard  
hard drive  
adding 40  
buttons 19  
125  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Index  
cleaning 62  
features 19  
PS/2 port 10  
troubleshooting 84  
USB port 6, 10  
keys and buttons  
application 20, 21  
arrow 20, 21  
audio playback 19, 21  
directional 20, 21  
editing 19, 21  
function 19, 21  
Internet 19  
replacing 39  
microphone jack 6, 10  
Microsoft Certificate of  
mouse 22  
Authenticity  
3
navigation 20, 21  
numeric 20, 21  
sleep 21  
connecting 16  
Windows 20, 21  
jack 16  
L
troubleshooting 89  
modem jack 10  
label  
Microsoft Certificate of  
Authenticity  
3
3
product  
mouse  
LCD panel  
buttons 22  
cleaning 63  
cleaning 63  
troubleshooting 80, 92  
clicking 23  
lights  
double-clicking 23  
moving pointer 22, 23  
moving screen objects 23  
programs 23  
See indicators  
line in jack 9, 10  
line out jack 10  
M
PS/2 port  
9
maintenance  
backing up files 69  
checking for drive errors 66  
checking hard drive space  
64  
selecting screen objects 23  
USB port 6, 10  
cleaning 61, 63  
cleaning computer display  
63  
moving  
files from old computer 71,  
72  
cleaning computer screen  
pointer 23  
63  
screen objects 23  
settings from old computer  
71  
cleaning mouse 63  
defragmenting 68  
deleting files 66  
126  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
multimedia  
adjusting volume 24  
muting sound 24  
power button  
7
N
printer  
navigation keys 20, 21  
network  
jack 9, 15  
troubleshooting 95  
USB port 6, 10  
troubleshooting 80, 94  
non-technical support  
Accounting 110  
Sales 110  
programs  
Warranty 110  
numeric keypad 20, 21  
indicator 20, 21  
O
R
opening  
RAM  
computer case 31  
files 23  
See memory  
rebooting computer 18  
removing files and folders 66  
resetting computer 18  
folders 23  
front bezel 32  
programs 23  
shortcut menu 23  
optical connection 10  
restarting computer 18  
P
Pad Lock indicator 20, 21  
password 94  
S
peripheral devices 26  
S/PDIF out 10  
Plug and Play devices  
IEEE 1394 support for 26  
USB support for 26  
pointer 22  
caring for notebook 60  
general precautions 114  
moving 23  
ports  
See connections  
troubleshooting 76  
posture 14  
power  
reducing eye strain 13  
setting up computer 13  
static electricity 30  
button  
7
connector  
Hibernate mode  
source problems 14  
Standby/Resume  
troubleshooting 95  
8
7
scanner  
7
installing 26  
Scheduled Tasks Wizard 70  
127  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Index  
screen  
troubleshooting 92  
screen objects  
109  
Technical Support 110  
tips before contacting 108  
tutorial service 110  
getting information 23  
moving 23  
selecting 23  
Scroll Lock indicator 20, 21  
scroll wheel 23  
telephone support 108  
training  
classroom 111  
111  
searching  
for files and folders 72  
Learn With Gateway 111  
setting up  
safety precautions 114  
files from old computer 71,  
shortcut menus  
accessing 23  
settings from old computer  
shortcuts  
opening menu 23  
cards 77  
shutting down computer 17, 18  
side panel  
removing 31  
replacing 31  
sleep button 21  
sound  
DVD drive 77, 80  
faxes 91  
adjusting 24  
controls 24  
muting 24  
speaker jack 10  
speakers  
hard drive 82  
configuring 26  
Standby mode  
starting  
7
computer 16  
LCD panel 80, 92  
programs 23  
memory card reader 88  
modem 89  
starting computer  
static electricity 30  
surge protector 14  
7
monitor 92  
mouse 94  
system battery  
network 94  
replacing 35  
passwords 94  
power 95  
system board  
replacing 54  
printer 95  
safety guidelines 76  
screen 80, 92  
T
screen area 92  
screen resolution 92  
technical support 108  
technical support  
automated  
troubleshooting  
128  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
www.gateway.com  
telephone support 108  
Web site connection speed  
84  
Windows Media Center 85  
turning off computer 7, 17, 18  
turning on computer 7, 16  
tutoring  
fee-based 110  
U
uninterruptible power supply  
(UPS) 14  
updating  
Windows 64  
UPS 14  
USB port 6, 10, 26  
V
volume  
adjusting 24  
adjusting modem 92  
controls 24  
muting 24  
troubleshooting 96  
W
Windows key 20, 21  
Windows Media Center  
troubleshooting 85  
Windows Product Key Code  
Windows Update 64  
3
wired Ethernet  
troubleshooting 80  
working safely 12  
Z
Zip drive 69  
Zip drive port 10  
129  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Index  
130  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
MAN 6BAY MBTX CONS REFGDE V R0 12/06  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Echo Blower 11 Dec User Manual
Fender Musical Instrument Amplifier Stage 1000 User Manual
Fender Speaker Rumble 210 User Manual
Fluke Car Amplifier 5220A User Manual
Frigidaire Oven FGEW2745K User Manual
FujiFilm Camera Accessories LAS 3000 User Manual
Fujitsu Computer Accessories F2 MC 16 User Manual
GE Hot Beverage Maker 106810 User Manual
Genelec Speaker 7050A User Manual
Gianni Industries Welding System DG 600 User Manual