Acer Aspire EL User manual

Aspire EL
User’s guide
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Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation
to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new
editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications. This company makes
no representations 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.
Record the model number, serial number, purchase date, and place of purchase information in
the space provided below. The serial number and model number are recorded on the label
affixed to your computer. All correspondense concerning your unit should include the serial
number, model number, and purchase information.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.
Model Number : _________________________________
Serial Number: ___________________________________
Purchase Date: ___________________________________
Place of Purchase: ________________________________
Copyright © 2001. Acer Incorporated.
All Rights Reserved.
Aspire EL User’s guide
Original Issue: July 2001
Aspire EL
Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Other company's
product names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to
their respective companies.
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iii
Notices
FCC notice
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 device 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 communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this device does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the device and receiver
• Connect the device into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help
Notice: Shield cables
All connections to other computing devices must be made using shielded cables
to maintain compliance with FCC regulations.
Notice: Peripheral devices
Only peripherals (input/output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to
comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this equipment. Operation
with noncertified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV
reception.
Caution! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority, which is granted by
the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this
computer.
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iv
Use conditions
This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation 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.
Notice: Canadian users
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Remarque à l’intention des utilisateurs canadiens
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respected toutes les exigences du
Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Important safety instructions
Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference.
1 Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
2 Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use
liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
3 Do not use this product near water.
4 Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product
may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
5 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 covere. 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.
6 This product should be operated from the type of power indicated on the
marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult
your dealer or local power company.
7 Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this
product where persons will walk on the cord.
8 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 rating. Also, make sure that the total
rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the fuse
rating.
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v
9 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. Never spill liquid of any kind on the
product.
10 Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing
covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.
11 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 operating
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.
12 Replace the 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 a qualified serviceman.
13 Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not
disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep them away from children and
dispose of used batteries promptly.
14 Use only the proper type of power supply cord set (provided in your
accessories box) for this unit. It should be a detachable type: UL listed/CSA
certified, type SPT-2, rated 7A 125V minimum, VDE approved or its
equivalent. Maximum length is 15 feet (4.6 meters).
Year 2000 compliance statement
The Aspire EL computer carries the "Hardware NSTL Tested Year 2000
Compliant" logo, which certifies that this model has been tested by NSTL using
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vi
the YMark2000 test, and has been found to meet NSTL's standards for Year
2000 hardware compliance.
For more details, check the Acer Year 2000 Resource Center at http://
global.acer.com/service/pcy2000.html
Laser compliance statement
The CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive in this computer is a laser product. The
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive’s classification label (shown below) is located
on the drive.
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPOSURE TO
BEAM.
TCO 95 compliant
The Aspire EL computer is a TCO 95 approved and labelled product. TCO 95
provides international environmental and quality labelling of personal
computers. The labelling scheme was developed as a joint effort by the TCO
(The Swedish Confederation of Professional Employees), Svenska
Naturskyddsforeningen (The Swedish Society of Nature Conservation), Statens
Energimyndighet (The Swedish National Energy Administration) and SEMKO
AB. The requirements of TCO 95 cover a wide range of issues: environment,
usability, reduction of electric and magnetic fields, energy consumption and
electrical safety.
For more details, check the TCO Development at http://www.tco-info.com/
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Contents
Notices iii
FCC notice iii
Important safety instructions iv
Year 2000 compliance statement v
Laser compliance statement vi
TCO 95 compliant vi
1 First things first 1
Welcome! 3
Package contents 4
Before you start... 5
Important tips 5
Cleaning and servicing 5
Asking for technical assistance 6
Accessing your online guide 6
2 Getting to know your Aspire EL 7
Features 9
The front panel 11
The rear panel 12
The keyboard 14
The mouse 17
Disk drives 18
Hard disk 18
3.5-inch floppy drive 18
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive 19
Acer GoTo drive bay 22
3 Setting up your Aspire EL 23
Arranging a comfortable work area 25
Adjusting your chair 25
Positioning your Aspire EL 25
Positioning your monitor 25
Positioning your keyboard 26
Positioning your mouse 26
Connecting peripherals 27
USB mouse 27
USB keyboard 28
Monitor 29
Power cable 30
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4 Adding options to your Aspire EL 31
Connecting options 33
Printer 33
Network 34
Modem (optional) 35
Multimedia devices 36
USB devices 38
Turning on your computer 39
Turning off your computer 41
Configuring your Acer GoTo drive 42
Upgrading your computer 45
Mainboard 46
System utilities 49
5 Need help? 51
Index 57
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1 First things first
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This chapter describes the contents of your
computer package and also provides
important tips on how to take care of your
computer.
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3
Welcome!
Welcome and thank you for purchasing the Aspire EL computer. You
are now the proud owner of a top of the line multimedia computer
system. Your Aspire EL computer comes preinstalled with software
programs that will enable you to:
• Create personal documents
• Access the Internet
• Send and receive emails
• Play audio and video CDs and tons more!
Whether you’ve owned a computer before or not, your Aspire EL
computer was designed to improve the way you work (and make it
more enjoyable too!) and effectively serve your computing needs.
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1 First things first
4
Package contents
Before you unpack your computer, make sure that you have enough
space to set it up.
Carefully unpack the carton and remove the contents. If any of the
following items are missing or damaged, contact your dealer
immediately:
•AspireEL
•Just for Starters... poster
•USBkeyboard
• Items contained in the accessory box
•USBmouse
• Power cable
• User’s guide
• Acer GoTo swappable drive (optional)
• Other user documentation and third-party software
• Aspire EL Warranty Guide (in selected countries only)
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5
Before you start...
Please read the safety instructions listed in this section. Following
these instructions on the care and use of your new computer will help
you maximize its durability.
Important tips
• Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it
near sources of heat, such as a radiator.
• Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields.
• Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture.
• Do not spill water on the computer.
• Do not subject the computer to heavy shock or vibration.
• Do not expose the computer to dust and dirt.
• Never place the system on uneven surfaces.
• Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of it.
Carefully route the power cord and any cables away from personal
traffic.
• When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself
but pull on the plug.
• The total ampere rating of the equipment plugged in should not
exceed the ampere rating of the cord if you are using an extension
cord. Also, the total current rating of all equipment plugged into
a single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating.
• Check the documentation that came with your software programs
to see if you can select other combinations of resolution and color.
These adjustments could make viewing the screen more
comfortable.
Cleaning and servicing
To clean your computer and keyboard
1 Turn off the computer and unplug the power cable.
2 Use a soft cloth moistened with water and gently wipe the exterior
of the computer and the keyboard. Do not use liquid or aerosol
cleaners.
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1 First things first
6
To clean your mouse
1 Open the circular cover underneath the mouse.
2 Take out the rubber ball and wipe it with a soft, damp cloth.
3 Put the ball back and close the cover.
When to contact a service technician
• If you dropped and damaged the computer
• If liquid has been spilled into the computer
• If the computer is not operating normally
• If a computer problem persists even after you have checked and
done the troubleshooting tips discussed in the “Need help?”
section on page 51
• If your problem is not listed in the “Need help?” section on page
51
• If you want to replace or upgrade any of your computer's internal
components
Asking for technical assistance
For technical assistance, contact your local dealer or distributor. You
may also access the Acer Web site at http://www.acer.com/ for
information on how and where to contact the service centers available
in your area.
Accessing your online guide
For on-the-go help information about your computer, refer to the
Aspire EL online guide. To access the online guide, simply double-click
on the Aspire EL online icon on your Windows desktop.
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2 Getting to know your
Aspire EL
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This chapter discusses the features and
components of your computer.
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9
Features
Here are just a few of your computer’s many features:
Performance
• Intel Pentium® 4 micro Pin Grid Array (mPGA) processor with
integrated 256 KB on-die L2 cache
• Expandable system memory to a maximum of 3 GB
• High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk
• 3.5-inch floppy drive
• Universal 1x/2x/4x AGP slot
• Power management system with Advanced Configuration and
Power Interface (ACPI) support
• Supports Windows 2000 and Windows Me operating systems
Multimedia
• Cathode-ray tube (CRT) and liquid crystal display (LCD) support
• 3D audio system via onboard AC'97 audio codec
• Memory Stick reader (optional)
• Optical drive (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM or CD-RW drive)
• Line-in, line-out, microphone-in, headphone-out and game port
interfaces
Connectivity
• High-speed 56 K V.90 data/fax/voice modem
• IEEE 802./802.3u 10BaseT/100BaseTX-compatible network adaptor
• USB and PS/2-compatible mouse and keyboard interfaces
• Four Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports with Plug and Play function
• High-speed NS 16C550-compatible serial ports
• Multi-mode parallel port
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2 Getting to know your Aspire EL
10
Expansion
• 3 PCI slots + 3 DIMM slots + 1 AGP slot
• Upgradeable memory and hard disk
• Acer GoTo swappable drive (optional)
Human-centric design and ergonomics
• Smooth and stylish design
• Low emission and low radiation
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11
The front panel
Your computer’s front panel consists of the following:
No. Description No. Description
1 Speaker/Headphone-out port 11 Power button
2 CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive
activity indicator
12 3.5-inch floppy drive eject
button
3 CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive
emergency eject hole
13 3.5-inch floppy drive
4 CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive
Stop/Eject button
14 3.5-inch floppy drive
activity indicator
5 Acer GoTo drive bay keylock 15 CD/DVD compartment
6 Acer GoTo drive activity indicator 16 Front USB ports
7 Acer GoTo drive (optional) 17 Front microphone-in port
8 Power indicator 18 Speaker/Headphone-out
port
9 LAN activity indicator 19 Memory Stick slot
(optional)
10 Hard disk activity indicator 20 Multimedia port bay
cover
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2 Getting to know your Aspire EL
12
The rear panel
Your computer offers several ports that allow you to connect
peripheral devices. These ports are located on the rear panel of your
computer.
For information on how to connect the peripherals, refer to
“Connecting peripherals” on page 27 and “Adding options to your
Aspire EL” on page 31.
Your computer’s rear panel consists of the following:
No. Icon Color Description
1 Main power switch
2 Voltage selector switch
3 Power cable socket
4 System fan 1
5 Purple PS/2 keyboard port
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