Acer Aspire 6600 User manual

My Guide
…the printed companion
to the way more fun and
hands-on experience of your
Acer Aspire.
Introducing
the not nearly as exciting
ink onpaper version of…

Did you know your Acer Aspire comes with incredible
multimedia software that was designed to show you all
the cool stuff your computer can do? This book is your
handy desktop reference for your Acer Aspire..
(P.S. - If you’re reading this because you’re having trouble with your computer,
check the “Need Help?” section in this book.)
Hey!
Wait
aminute!

Table of Contents iii
ii
Copyright
Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks and Aspire is a trademark of
Acer Inc. and Acer America Corporation.
Microsoft Windows and the Windows Logo are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel
Corp. All other brands/product names are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective companies.
© 2000 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved.
Printed in Taiwan
First printing September 2000
Tableof
Contents
Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Before You Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Proper Setup and Placement Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
AnIntroductionto YourAspire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
The System: Aspire Microtower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Setting Up Your Aspire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Turning Your Aspire On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
The Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
The Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Drives on Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Using Your Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Formatting a Floppy Diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Using Your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Your Data/Fax Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Accessing the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Connecting an Optional Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Printer Driver Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Connecting an Optional Serial Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting an Optional Joystick or MIDIDevice . . . . . . . . . . 21
Getting the Most fromYour Acer Audio System. . . . . . . . 22
Playing an Audio CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
The Electronic Mixing Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Adding Options toYourAspire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Opening/Closing Your Aspire Microtower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Need Help? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Troubleshooting–General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Troubleshooting–Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Additional Acer Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Disclaimer of Warranties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

iv Welcome 1
Standard End User License Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
System Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Limited Product Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
FCC Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Acer Year 2000 Compliance Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
CD-ROM Safety Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Caution on Lithium Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Welcome and thank you for
purchasing an Aspire computer. You are now the owner of a
multimedia computer system! Already installed on your system
and ready to go are software programs designed to enable you
to:
Create personal documents
Access the Internet and send and receive e-mail
Use your computer as a fax machine
Play audio CDs while you’re working
and tons more!
Whether you’ve owned a computer before or not, your Aspire
was designed to improve the way you work and to serve your
needs now and into the future.

3
2Before You Start...
•Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
•Do not attempt to service this product yourself; opening or
removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points
or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Service by persons other than Acer authorized service providers
may void your warranty.
•Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing
to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
a• When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
b• If liquid has been spilled into the product.
c• If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
d• If the product does not operate normally when the oper-
ating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that
are covered by the operating instructions since improper
adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the product to normal condition.
e• If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.
f• If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
indicating a need for service.
•Replace battery with the same type as the product’s battery
we recommend. Use of another battery may present a risk of
fire or explosion. Refer battery replacement to qualified service
personnel.
•Warning! Battery may explode if not handled properly. Do
not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire. Keep away from
children and dispose of used battery promptly.
•Use only the proper type of power supply cord set (provided
in your keyboard/manual accessories box) for this unit. It
should be a detachable type: UL listed/CSA certified, type
SVT/SJT, rated 6A 125V minimum, VDE approved or its equiva-
lent. Maximum length is 15 feet (4.6 meters).
•Always unplug the computer and monitor before opening
the housing or adjusting connections or cables.
•Use power strips with surge protection to protect your com-
puter in the event of a power surge, due to severe weather
such as a thunderstorm.
BeforeYouStart ...
Make sure you read this section carefully for proper placement
andimportant Safety Instructions on the use and care of your
new computer. Please save these instructionsfor future reference.
Safety Instructions
•Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
•Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do
not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a cloth mildly
dampened with water for cleaning.
•Do not use this product in or near water.
•Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table.
The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
•Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are
provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the
product and to protect it from overheating, these openings
must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never
be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface. This product should never be placed near or
over a radiator or heat register, or in a built-in installation unless
proper ventilation is provided.
•This product should be operated from the type of power indi-
cated on themarking label. If you are not sure of the type of
power available, consult your dealer or local power company.
•This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug,
a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into
a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you
are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your elec-
trician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the pur-
pose of the grounding-type plug.
•Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not
locate this product where persons will walk on the cord.
•If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that
the total ampere rating of the equipment plugged into the
extension cord does not exceed the extension cord ampere rat-
ing. Also, make sure that the total rating of all products
plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
•Never push objects of any kind into this product through
cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or
short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.

An Introduction to Your Aspire 5
4
Aspire
AnIntroductiontoYour
TheSystem: Aspire Microtower
CD-ROM/
DVD-ROMDrive
CD-ROM/
DVD-ROM
Eject Button
Expansion Bay
Door Power/
Quickstart
Button
Power Indicator Light
Activity Indicator
Light Front USBand Audio
Connectors
ProperSetupandPlacementTips
It’s important that your computer be set up correctly and
according to your own comfort and ergonomic needs. The
following tips should make your workstation a comfortable
and healthy place:
Monitor Level. Position your computer so that it is at arm’s
length away and the top third of the monitor viewing area is
at eye level. This helps prevent eye and neck strain. To further
reduce eye strain, close your eyes and refocus on something
other than your computer screen at least twice an hour. Most
monitors come standard with a detachable tilt-and-swivel base
and adjustable, rear-mounted foot, which allow you to position
the monitor exactly where you want it.
Your Seat. If you plan to use your Acer computer for extended
periods (for example, in a home office environment), select a
highly adjustable office chair with a five-pronged base. The seat
and chair back should be adjustable, while you’re sitting in the
chair, for height and tilt, and forward/backward positioning, and
the lumbar area of the back should be supported by the chair
adjustments or acushion. Armrests should conform to your
elbow height and shoulder width and shouldbe used for sup-
port. For maximum comfort, vary positions frequently through-
out the day. Use good posture when seated, keep your head
centered over your shoulders and, just like your mother always
told you, don’t slump over your work.
Anti-Glare Coating. Some monitor screens are constructed
with a special anti-glare coating, which minimizes reflections that
cause eye strain and discomfort. To further reduce eye strain,
close your eyes and refocus on something other than your com-
puter screen at least twice anhour .
Task Lighting. When room lighting is dimmed, there may
be insufficient light on documents or reference materials for
comfortable reading. A well-lit room or a few directional,
adjustable task lights will allow you to see your monitor screen
and other materials clearly, and with the least amount of strain.
Hand and Wrist. Keep your wrists straight and your forearms
parallel to the floor while you are typing. If you use a wrist rest,
use it only briefly for resting. Do not rest your hands on the
table or on the wrist rest while you are typing. During long
periods of typing, frequent breaks are recommended.

An Introduction to Your Aspire 7
6
1• Press and release the monitor power button if it is not on
or blinking already.
2• Press and release the computer power button (Quickstart
or traditional start).
The monitor will begin displaying images after 5-10 seconds.
The power button lights on the computer and monitor will
be on.
Note: If you previously used Quickstart OFFwhen you were done
using your Aspire, your computer will return exactly where it was in
just a couple of seconds. If you previously shut down Windows
Millenium Edition (Me), your computer will take 2-3 minutes to start.
Setting Up YourAspire
Refer to the Aspire Easy Setup Poster included in your system
box for details on how to set up your computer.
Turning Your Aspire On and Off
You have two options for turning your Aspire on and off. Your
Aspire was designed for you with convenience in mind. The
Quickstart option allows your computer to instantly turn on
and off, without waiting for a long start-up time. If you like the
traditional approach better, you can use it instead.
Turning onyour Aspire
Note: Make sure that the AC master power switch located on the
back of your system is in the ON position. Leave it ON at all times
unless the system is being serviced.

An Introduction to Your Aspire 9
8
TheMouse
The mouse uses a cursor called a pointer. Pointers come in
many different shapes but are most commonly shaped like an
arrow.
Your mouse has two buttons: a left button and a right button.
Quickly pressing and releasing one of these buttons is called
clicking. Sometimes you will need to double-click–or click the
same button twice quickly.
In this manual, click means to position your mouse point on
an icon and to single click the left button. When a right click is
required, this is stated clearly. Double-click also refers to the
left button.
The ratchet wheel in between the two buttons is added to
provide easier scrolling capability. By simply moving the wheel
with your index finger, you can quicky move through multiple
pages, line, or windows. The wheel may also function as a
third button allowing you to quickly click or double-click an
icon or a selected item
Note: If you are left-handed, please refer to your Windows Me manu-
al for instructions on how to set up your mouse for left-handed use.
Right Button
Left Button
Pointer movement on the
screen is controlled by the
movement of a small ball
on the bottom of the
mouse.
Using a mouse pad under
your mouse will help to
keep the internal parts of
the mouse clean. A dirty
mouse results in jerky
pointer movement and dif-
ficulty getting the pointer
where you want it on
screen.
To cleanyour mouse:
1 • Turn the mouse upside
down.
2 • Remove the ring holding
the ball in place by turning
it counterclockwise.
3 • Using a lint-free cloth or a
cotton swab dipped in rub-
bing alcohol, clean all mov-
ing parts.
4 • Insert the ball back into
the mouse, making sure to
turn the ring clockwise.
Caring for
yourMouse
Turning off your Aspire
Option1: Quickstart OFF• Your Aspire will continue to run
in the Quickstart OFF condition. It will appear that it is OFF.
When you press the power button to switch your Aspire to
the fully ON condition, it will do it in only a few seconds.
Option2: Traditional OFF • If you want your Aspire to com-
pletely power OFF (if you need to unplug it):
1 • Click on the Windows Start button on the taskbar.
2 • Click on Shut Down.
3 • Click on Shut Down the Computer and click Yes. Your
computer will guide you through saving any open files and
then will shut down Windows Me. Your computer will then
turn off all computer power automatically. You will have to
manually turn off your monitor after you see the computer
power go off.
Ratchet Wheel

An Introduction to Your Aspire 11
10
Endkey• takes you to the end of a line.
PageUp /PageDownkeys• move you up or down a screen
at a time.
Backspace key • is similar to the delete key above, but it will
delete one character at a time to the left of the cursor.
AltandCtrlkeys • have varying functions on their own or
when used with other keys, depending on the software being
used.
NumLockkeyandnumeric key pad • when the Num
Lock/Num Pad key is on, the keys on the numeric key pad can
be used for entering numbers. When it’s off, these keys become
arrow keys, page up and page down keys–as indicated on the
bottom half of the key.
Sleep• puts your computer into sleep mode.
VolumeControl / Mute• controls the speaker volume. Press
to mute.
WebConnection • starts up the Internet browser.
E-mail • starts up the e-mail program.
Programmable keys• launches assigned programs.
Audiocontrols• controls audio playback.
•brings up the Windows Me START menu.
•displays drop-down menus from icons (same as right click)
and currently active applications.
Home
Audio controls
Programmable keys
End
Page Up
Page Down
Backspace
Alt Alt
Ctrl
Ctrl
Num Lock/
Num Pad
Sleep
E-mail
Web Connection
Volume
Control/
Mute
TheKeyboard
The way keys are used varies from program to program. Here
are some of the most common uses:
Esc key • exits the current action, screen, or program.
Tab key• moves the cursor over a set number of spaces in
word processing software. In other types of programs, it moves
the cursor from one field (an area on the screen where data
can be entered) to the next.
Enterkey• starts a new paragraph in word processing. In other
programs, it accepts data entered or shows that an action is
complete.
Shift key • pressing this key while typing a letter or symbol key
will give you the capital letter or symbol on the top of the key.
CapsLockkey• locks the capital letters in place. Pressing it
again will take the Caps Lock off. (A Caps Lock indicator light
will turn on when the Caps Lock is on.)
Function keys • numbered F1 through F12, each will perform a
specific and well-defined function, should an application use
them.
Cursor Arrowkeys • move the cursor in the directions that
the arrows point.
Insert key• when activated, inserts data vs. typing over/
replacing it.
Delete key • will delete data that is highlighted or to the right
of the cursor.
Home key• takes you to the beginning of a line.
Esc
Enter
Tab
Caps
Lock
Shift
Function
Cursor Arrows
Insert Delete

An Introduction to Your Aspire 13
12
Connect the speakers to your system as shown in the following
figure:
Driveson YourComputer
Whether it’s the software program that you bought from your
local computer store or the shopping list you just typed up
using your word processor, all information in a computer is
stored electronically.
To save (write) data or retrieve (read) data, the computer uses
a drive. There are different ways to store data, and every differ-
ent type of data storage has a specific drive.
Three different types of drives come with your Acer computer:
TheHard Drive
Your fixed or hard drive is located inside your computer. This
drive is typically called the C: drive in Windows Me.
TheMonitor
Refer to the manual that came with your Aspire monitor for
more information on the monitor features.
TheSpeakers
Your system comes with a uniquely-designed set of speakers
that can be attached to the monitor.
To connect the speakers to the monitor:
1 • Locate the left and right speaker brackets that came with
your speaker package.
2 • Locate the brackets on the sides of your Aspire monitor.
3• Align and insert the holdfasts on the speakers into the key
holes. Then slide the speakers down to secure them to the
brackets. See the following figure:
Unlike ordinary speakers, the speakers that came with your
Aspire system do not use a power adapter. Instead, it shares
power with your system via the PS/2 connector.

An Introduction to Your Aspire 15
14
Note: All of the information you save on your hard drive takes up
space, so you will want to clean it up periodically to maintain the best
performance.
Refer to My Aspire Guide for more information on scanning and ana-
lyzing the information on your hard drive.
UsingYourFloppy Drive
Floppy disks are used for putting data into your computer or
for taking it out.
1• Insert the floppy disk into the drive, as shown. (The metal
circle on the disk’s underside should be facing down.)
2• Push it in gently until it pops into place.
3• Remove the floppy disk by pressing the eject button.
The advantage of a floppy
disk or CD is that it makes
data portable.
Practically all newly pur-
chased software comes in
one of these two formats.
Data is often exchanged
between computers on
floppy disks. Be aware that
there is an inherent danger
of virus infection in casual
swapping or sharing of
floppy disks with your
friends and associates. Files,
applications or programs
downloaded from the
Internet also carry possible
danger. Refer to page 30 for
more information.
WhyDisks?
(OrDiscs, For
that Matter...)
TheFloppyDrive
This drive uses removable 3.5-inch floppy disks and is called the
A: drive.
TheCD-ROM Drive
The CD ROM drive uses CDs (Compact Discs) instead of flop-
py disks, and it is Read Only Memory, which means that the
computer can read data from the disc, but cannot write any-
thing new on it. It is typically called the D: drive. On some
computers, the CD-ROM may be another drive letter. Please
refer to My Computer for the current drive letter assignment
on your Windows Me desktop.
TheDVD-ROMDrive
The DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc
Read Only Memory) is a new type of CD-ROM. It can hold
capacities ranging from 4.7 GB to a maximum if 17 GB, and can
support access rates from 600 Kilobytes per second to 1.2
Megabytes per second. It is backward-compatible with CD-
ROMs which means that DVD players can play not only DVD-
ROMs, but old CD-ROMs, CD-I disks, video CDs, and CD-R
disks as well. DVD uses MPEG-2 to compress video data.
CD-ROM/
DVD-ROM
Drive
Floppy Drive and
Hard Drive

An Introduction to Your Aspire 17
16
UsingYourCD-ROM/DVD-ROMDrive
Unlike floppy disks, CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs can be used
only for putting data into your computer. Your Acer computer
can use two types of CD-ROM discs: audio discs or data discs.
Data CDs can hold a lot of information and very large pro-
grams. One CD can hold more information than is contained
on 450 floppy diskettes.
Press the eject button to manually open or close the CD tray.
To insert a CD or a DVD, place it in the tray with the title side
facing up, then press the CD eject button to close it.
Note: It may take up to 30 seconds for a disc to stop spinning before
the drive opens up. If you try to run the software when you first insert
the CD (or DVD) and you get an error message like Drive Not Ready,
wait a few seconds, then try again.
A CD/DVD has two sides:
• The title side tells you
which CD/DVD it is.
• The data side stores all the
data.
CDs and DVDs are fragile,
so when handling your CDs
or DVDs, hold them by the
edges to avoid leaving
smudges or fingerprints.
Always keep them in a disc
case when not in use to
avoid scratches or other
damage. Any kind of dirt or
damage can affect the data
on the disc, impair the disc
lens reader on the CD-ROM
and DVD-ROM drives, or
stop the computer from suc -
cessfully reading the disc.
To clean your CDs and
DVDs, use a clean, dust-
free cloth and wipe in a
straight line from the cen-
ter to the edge. Continue
around the whole disc.
(DONOT wipe in a circle.)
You can also periodically
clean your CD-ROM/DVD-
ROM drive to prevent
problems from reading
CDs/DVDs on your com-
puter. For more informa-
tion, refer to the Cleaning
Kit that came with your
system.
Caring for
yourCDs and
DVDs
Note: Your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive will probably emit a sound
like that of a fan. Unless you are having other problems with your
drive, you should not be concerned.
Formattinga FloppyDiskette
A floppy disk is, basically, just a thin piece of magnetic tape on
which data can be stored electronically. Most floppy disks are
protected with a hard plastic case.
Before a floppy can be used, it must be formatted, or made
ready to accept data.
Note: Many stores sell pre-formatted 3.5” floppy disks.
1• Make sure your floppy is not write-protected. (See sidebar
for instructions).
2• Insert the diskette into your floppy drive.
3• Click on the Start button, point to Programs, and click
on Windows Explorer.
4• Point to 3.5” Floppy (A:) under My Computer.
5• Click on the right mouse button, then select Format.
6• Click on Start.
Cautions:
•Formatting a disk removes any data that might have been
saved on that disk.
•Be sure to keep your disks away from heat and other magnet-
ic items that can damage the disk and the information on it.
When the write protect
notch is open, data cannot
be written to (saved on)
the disk. The notch must
be closed for data to be
written to (copied on) the
disk.
Write protecting diskettes
is a good way to keep
them safe from viruses,
should you use them in a
different computer.
Write-Protect Tab
(can be saved on)
Write-Protect Tab
(cannot be saved on)
Write Protecting
a Floppy Diskette

PrinterDriverInstallation
To print from your Aspire, you need a printer driver – a program
that tells your computer what kind of printer it is printing to.
Windows Me has automaticdetection for all of the more popular
printers. If your printeris not available in Windows Me, look in
the printer’s user guide for instructions. Please contact themanu-
facturer of your printer ifyou have problems or questions.
1• Click on the Start button.
2• Point to Setting, then click on Printers.
3• Select Add Printer, and double-click.
4• Follow the directions on the screen, and be sure to test the
printer when prompted.
You should now be able to print successfully from your Aspire.
An Introduction to Your Aspire 19
18
Connecting an Optional Printer
1 • Make sure your computer is completely turned off (see p. 6).
2 • Connect the printer cable purchased with your printer
from the printer to the printer port on the back of your com-
puter.
3 • Plug your printer power cable into a wall outlet or power
strip.
4• Turn on the printer.
5• Turn on the computer.
Note: For printer driver installation to go smoothly, it is important to
turn on your printer first so Windows Me can recognize that a printer
is connected to the computer.
Your Data/FaxModem
Your data/fax modem makes it possible for you to communi-
cate electronically around the globe.
Once you’ve plugged your telephone line into your Acer com-
puter, you can:
•Access the Internet*
•Send and receive faxes
•Send and receive e-mail*
Accessingthe Internet
Your Aspire computer comes with the ability to link to the
Internet.** With the Internet you can visit Acer for updates,
send e-mail to friends and family, book vacations, read up on
the latest blockbuster movie, and much, much more. All you
need is a phone line to hook the modem up to, and an
account with an Internet Service Provider.
*Requires an account with an Internet service provider.
** You may be required to pay toll charges, monthly or hourly usage fees, and
other setup charges.
Check with the Internet Service Provider for details.

An Introduction to Your Aspire 21
20
Connecting an Optional Joystick or MIDI
Device
1 • Before you proceed, make sure your computer is completely
turned off (see p. 6).
2• Locate the Game/MIDI port on the back of your computer.
3 • Plug your joystick or MIDIdevice cable into this port.
Connecting an Optional SerialDevice
1• Before you proceed, make sure your computer is completely
turned off (see p. 6).
2• Locate the serial port on the back of your computer.
3• Plug your serial device cable into this port.

23
22 Getting the Most from you Aspire Audio System
2• Click on the Volume icon on the task bar at the bot-
tom of your screen.
A volume control will pop up. Drag the volume
control lever with your mouse until you find the
level you want.
3• Double-click on the Soundicon to use the electronic mix-
ing board.
TheElectronicMixing Board
Your Aspire computer comes with an electronic mixing board
that enables the experienced audiophile to make the most of
the stereo sound system.
1• Double-click on the Volume icon on the task bar at the
bottom of your screen. The Speaker Mixer window will open:
2• All of the options on this screen can be adjusted by drag-
ging the slider bars.
Note:Thecontrols were balanced in the factory. Werecommend that
you donot change these settings unless youhavesome familiarity with
sound mixing.
GettingtheMost fromYourAcer
Playingan Audio CD
Would you like to play a little music while you work? Pop your
favorite audio CD into the CD-ROM drive, wait ten to twenty
seconds and, voila! Music!
Adjustingthe Volume
There are three ways you can adjust the volume on your
audio CD:
1• Turn the volume knob on your keyboard to increase or
decrease the volume. Press the knob to mute.
AudioSystem

25
24 Adding Options to you Aspire
3• Push the cover slightly backward as shown in the following
figure.
4• Lift up the cover.
Always observe the fol-
lowing electrostatic dis-
charge (ESD) precautions
before installing a system
component:
• ESD can cause permanent
damage to your computer.
• Do not remove a compo-
nent from its antistatic
packaging until you are
ready to install it.
• Wear a wrist grounding
strap before handling elec-
tronic components. Wrist
grounding straps are avail-
able at most electronic
component stores.
• At a minimum, keep a
hand in contact with the
metal system housing to
reduce the ESD effect.
Electrostatic
Discharge
Precautions
ReplacingtheCoverPanel
After you install the system components into the housing, you
must replace the cover panel.
1• Position the top cover on the housing, aligning the sides
with the rails.
2• Slide the cover forward until it fits into place.
You can add hard drives, memory, expansion cards, and other
options to your Acer Aspire. For directions on upgrading and
how to disassemble the computer chassis, please refer to My
Aspire Guide software.
You can find information regarding your motherboard jumper
settings by referring to the panel inside your Aspire chassis.
Opening/ClosingYourAspire Microtower
Caution! Always turn off your computer and unplug it before
opening the case. For more information on the complete sys-
tem shut-down, refer to “Turning Your Aspire On and Off” on
page 6.
RemovingtheCover Panel
1• Place the system on a flat surface.
2• Remove the four screws from the rear panel. Set the screws
aside. You will need them when replacing the cover.
AddingOptions
toYourAspire
The Universal Serial Bus
(USB) on your Aspire
allows for easy and conve-
nient expansion options.
With it, installing devices
such as digital cameras,
scanners, and joysticks is a
breeze.
USB connectors are easily
accessible from the front
of your Aspire.
Connecting
USBDevices

27
26
Need
Need Help?
Acer is dedicated to bringing you a reliable and easy to main-
tain computer. We realize, though, that problems can arise
unexpectedly. Please refer to the troubleshooting tips in this
section to help diagnose and solve your problems.
Troubleshooting–General
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions:
The Start button isnotdisplayedon screen.
The taskbar has either been resized too small or it is in a hid-
den location.
To retrieve the taskbar:
1• Press the Start key on the keyboard.
2• Press the Esc key to close the start menu. (The taskbar is
still selected.)
3• Press the Alt +Spacebar keys together and select “size.”
4• Use the Arrow keys to resize the taskbar to the desired size
and press the Enter key when done.
Mycomputerwillnot shutoff completely.
For more information and recommendations regarding the use
of Quickstart and Traditional power on/off, see page 6.
MyCD-ROMdoesnot alwayswork, and it does not eject
allthetime.
1• The CD being used is most likely dirty or scratched. Clean
the CD.
2• If cleaning the CD doesn’t correct the problem, call Acer
Technical Support.
Help?
3• Secure the cover with the screws.

29
28
Mymousemovementis erratic.
Clean your mouse:
1• Turn the mouse upside down.
2• Remove the ring holding the ball in place by turning it
counterclockwise.
3• Use a lint-free cloth or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing
alcohol to clean all moving parts.
4• Insert the ball back into the mouse and replace the ring,
making sure to turn the ring clockwise until it is securely back
in place.
Mysound isbad or unevenor my systemhas nosound.
1• Turn up the volume on the keyboard control. .
2• In Windows Me, double-click on the Volume icon (located
near the clock in the taskbar) to verify that the volume control
is up and mute is not turned on, or use the volume knob on
your keyboard.
Mysystemfreezes.
If your system hangs up, or freezes for some reason, you can re-
boot (restart) the computer by pressing the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys
simultaneously. Follow instructions on the screen.
If this does not successfully restart the system, you have anoth-
er option:
1• Push the Power button on your computer, holding it in for
approximately four seconds or until your screen goes dark. This
will completely turn off your computer.
2• Push the Powerbutton again to turn the computer back on.
Note: Whenever you reboot your system, you will lose any unsaved
data.
Myfloppydrivewon’treadmydisk.
1• Eject the disk from the floppy drive, then reinsert it and try
again.
2• Verify that the disk is correctly formatted. You will lose any
data on this disk if you format it.
3• Verify that the problem is the disk, not the drive, by check-
ing another floppy that you know is valid.
Mykeyboard doesn’twork.
1• Press the CapsLock key several times to see if the keyboard
LED light turns on and off.
2• If it does not, make sure the keyboard cable is securely
plugged into the back of your computer.
3• If the problem persists, call Acer Technical Support.
Mymodemconnects, butthere’sno dial tone.
1• Check to see if the phone lines (in and out) are properly
connected–sometimes the line to the phone and the line to
the wall jacks are reversed. If needed, refer to the Easy Setup
poster that came with your Acer computer.
2• Ensure that all phones using this line have been hung up.
Mymodemdoesnotwork.
1• Ensure that the line from the wall jack is plugged into the
jack on the back of the computer labeled Line or Wall.
2• Ensure that the line from the wall jack to the computer is
tightly plugged in on each end.
3• If the modem still doesn’t work, disconnect any phones or
other equipment that may be on the same line.
4• If the modem still doesn’t work, temporarily disable any
special services on the line, such as call waiting.
Mymonitorremainsdark when system is turnedon
1• Make sure that the monitor power indicator is lit.
2• Check brightness and contrast settings.
3• If the problem persists, ensure that the monitor is plugged
in and the cable from the monitor to the computer is securely
attached.
Mymonitorwillnot turnon.
1• If the monitor Power button light is not lit, verify that the
monitor is plugged in to a power source.
2• If the monitor Power button light is lit, but is blinking instead
of steady, verify thatthemonitor video cable is fully connected
to the computer. If needed, refer to the Easy Setup poster.
3 • If the computer Power button light is blinking, press it once.
4• If necessary, unplug the computer and monitor, then
inspect the monitor cable connector for bent or broken pins. Need Help?

Need Help? 31
30
Additional AcerServices
AbouttheAspireWeb Site*
This Internet site has answers for the most frequently asked
support questions and offers a searchable database of extensive
technical information, new product data and upgrade informa-
tion. Use it:
•When you can’t find the information you need in your manu-
al or online help, and before you call Technical Support.
•When you want to find upgrade information or bug fixes.
•When you’re curious about Acer!
For assistance:
http://www.acer.com/
* requires an account with an Internet Service Provider.
AcerTechnical Support
During the warranty period, should you have a problem with
your system or if you think something isn’t working, contact
Technical Support. Acer Technical Support provides help for
warranty related issues, such as a hardware problem.
Before you contact Acer, please take a few minutes to write
down a description of the problem. This will help us provide
you with better quality support.
Troubleshooting–ErrorMessages
I keep getting one of the following error messages:
EquipmentConfiguration Error
This error occurs when the CMOS settings have been changed
to a configuration that prevents successful boot-up. Press the
Ctrl +Alt +Esc keys, after the beep during the boot process,
then select Restore Default Settings to restore the original
CMOS values.
CMOSBattery Error
Call Acer Technical Support.
CMOSChecksumError
Press the Ctrl +Alt +Esc keys, after the beep during the boot
process, then select Restore Default Settings to restore the
original CMOS values. If the error message continues, call Acer
Technical Support.
DisketteDrive Controller Erroror NotInstalled
Call Acer Technical Support.
DisketteDriveError
Diskette may be defective. Verify with a known good diskette.
DisketteDriveA:Type Mismatch
Press the Ctrl +Alt +Esc keys, after the beep during the boot
process, then select Restore Default Settings.
HarddiskControllerError
Call Acer Technical Support.
Harddisk 0Error
Call Acer Technical Support.
Harddisk 1Error
Call Acer Technical Support.
KeyboardError,No Keyboard Connected or Keyboard
Interface Error
Check that the keyboard is securely plugged into the correct
port on the back of the computer.

Need Help? 33
32
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any other persons and removing any proprietary notices, labels or marks from
the Software is strictly prohibited. Futhermore, you hereby agree not to create
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Somejurisdictions do notallowthe exclusions of implied warranties of limita-
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Acer makes no representation or warranties, either expressed or implied, with
respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims the implied warranties
of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Any software described in
this manual is sold or licensed “as is.” Should the programs prove defective fol-
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dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing, repair, and any inci-
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Further, Acer reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes
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Disclaimer
Not all features described in this handbook will be available on all models. Acer
is continually updating its products to meet customer needs and hardware and
software specifications may vary from time to time. Please refer to your box
label for the specifications for your particular system.
JoinUsto Fight AgainstPiracy
The Acer Group has been implementing a policy to respect and protect legiti-
mate intellectual property rights. Acer firmly believes that only when each and
every one of us abides by such policy can this industry provide quality service
to the general public. Acer has become a member of the Technology
Committee of the Pacific Basin Economic Council, which is encouraging the
protection and enforcement of legitimate intellectual property rights world-
wide. Moreover, in order to ensure quality service to all our customers, Acer
includes an operating system in Acer computer systems which is duly licensed
by the legitimate proprietors and produced with quality. Acer commits itself
and urges all its customers to join the fight against intellectual property piracy
wherever it may occur. Acer will pursue the enforcement of intellectual proper-
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Standard End UserLicense Agreement
THIS END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT SHALL APPLY IN THE ABSENCE OF
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