Acer Aspire S Series User manual

Aspire S Series
User’s Guide

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 © 2004 Acer Incorporated
All Rights Reserved
Aspire S Series
User’s Guide
Acer and the Acer Logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other company's product
names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to their
respective companies.

Contents
Macrovision® copyright protection notice iv
System Tour 1
Front panel 1
Rear panel 2
System Features 3
Performance 3
Multimedia 3
Connectivity 3
System peripherals 4
Mouse(PS/2 or USB, manufacturing option) 4
Keyboard(PS/2 or USB, manufacturing option) 4
Speakers 5
System upgrade 6
Open the computer 6
Set up new components 6
Setting up your computer 7
Necessary to know before Setup 7
Select location 7
Open package 7
Connecting the peripherals 8
Starting your computer 8
Shutting down your computer 8
Troubleshooting 9
Taking Care of your computer 11
Important tips 11
Cleaning and servicing 11
To clean your computer and keyboard 11
To clean your pointing device 12
To clean your optical mouse 12
To clean your monitor 12
When to contact a service technician 12
Asking for technical assistance 12
Energy Star Guidelines Compliance 13
FCC notice 13
Notice: Canadian users 14
Declaration of Conformity for EU countries 14
Modem notices 14
Notice for USA 14

TBR 21 15
Notice for Australia 15
Important safety instructions 15
Macrovision® copyright protection notice 17
Lithium battery statement 17
Laser compliance statement 18
Declaration of Conformity 19
Federal Communications Comission
Declaration of Conformity 21
Macrovision® copyright protection notice
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.
Apparatus Claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,631,603, 4,577,216,
4,819,098, and 4,907,093 licensed for limited viewing uses only.
Remark: All the drawings in the Guide are diagrams. About
components’s quantity and style, substances shall take precedence.

1
English
System Tour
Your computer’s front panel consists of the following:
Front panel
No. Description No. Description
1 Optical Drive 2 Floppy Drive
3 USB Ports 4 Microphone Jack
5 Speaker or Headphone Jack 6 Power Button
1
3
4
5
6
2

System Tour2
English
Rear panel
Icon Description
Power cord socket
Voltage Selector Switch
PS/2 Mouse Port
PS/2 Keyboard Port
Serial Port
Monitor Connector
Parallel Port
Microphone-in jack
Audio-out Jack
Audio-in Jack
USB Ports
LAN Port

3
English
System Features
Your computer features:
Performance
• Intel® Pentium® 4/Celeron® CPU
• DDR System Memory, 2 DIMM Slots, expandable to 2GB
• Power management function
• 3.5 inch floppy drive
• CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-RW (52X/24X), DVD/CD-RW combo or
DVD writer
• High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE drive
• Support USB 2.0 high performance peripherals
Multimedia
• 3D quality audio system via onboard audio controller
• Audio-in/Line-in, Audio-out/Line-out, Headphone out and external
Microphone in jacks
Note: the system has two Microphone-in Jacks (front and rear)
However, you can not use both of them at the same time. By
default, you system enables your microphone-in jack in front and
disables the one at the back.
Connectivity
• Two PS/2 ports for keyboard and mouse
• One serial port
• One Parallel port
• One VGA port
• USB 2.0 ports
• High speed V.92, 56K fax/Data modem (optional)
• 10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet Network

System Tour4
English
System peripherals
The Aspire S Series computer consists the system itself, and system
peripherals, like a mouse, a keyboard and a set of speakers (optional).
This section provides a brief description of basic system peripherals.
Mouse(PS/2 or USB, manufacturing option)
The included mouse is a standard two-button wheel mouse. Connect
the mouse to the PS/2 mouse port or USB port on the back panel of the
system.
Keyboard(PS/2 or USB, manufacturing option)
Connect the keyboard to the PS/2 keyboard port or USB port on the
back panel of the system.

5
English
Speakers
For systems bundled with speakers, before powering on the system,
connect the speaker cable to the audio out (external speaker) port on
the back panel of the system.
For more detailed information about the speakers, please refer to the
included operating instructions.
Note: speakers are optional and the appearance might be
different depending on the actual product.

System Tour6
English
System upgrade
You can expand your Aspire S Series system quickly and easily by
adding components. You can also upgrade the components of your
Aspire S Series system.
Open the computer
Before removing any panels or covers, please make sure to shut off the
computer and unplug the power cord from the outlet.
• Remove the two screws on the side panel.
• Slide the panel back and off.
Set up new components
You can only use components compatible with Aspire S Series
computers. Before you choose new components, please ask your
authorized Acer dealer whether the part will operate within your
Aspire S Series system.
In order to ensure proper setup and installation, please consult the
instructions provided with your new components.
Probable upgrades are:
- Upgrade to High Capacity HDD
- Expand high-level memory
- Upgrade from a CD-ROM drive to CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD/CD-
RW combo, or DVD writer
- Install additional interface cards in empty PCI slots e.g., PCI
fax/modem card

7
English
Setting up your computer
Aspire S Series is a versatile, high-power system, supporting Intel®
Socket 478 CPUs. The computer uses PCI (Peripheral Component
Interface) and AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) design. This improves
system efficiency and helps the system support varied multimedia and
software applications.
Your Aspire S Series has standard I/O (Input/Output) interfaces such as
a serial port, parallel port, PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports, the system
includes USB ports, two microphone ports and stereo line-out jacks(one
at front and one at rear panel) and a stereo line-in Jack. The system can
accommodate extra peripheral equipment through those I/O ports.
Your system can also support an optional high-speed fax/data modem
or an additional LAN (local area network) card.
Furthermore, the system is compatible with Windows® XP Home,
Windows® XP Professional operating systems.
Necessary to know before Setup
Prior to setting up your Aspire S Series System:
• Select a location
• Open package
Select location
Selecting the optimum location for your computer:
• Don't place the system too close to other electrical equipment.
• Don't place the system in high traffic areas or where the power
cord or other cords may be stepped on.
• Avoid placing the system in any location that is excessively dusty or
damp.
Open package
Open the package carefully and keep all packing materials for later
use.

Setting up your computer8
English
Ensure that all items are present and in good condition. If any of the
following items are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer
immediately.
• Aspire S Series Series
• PS/2 or USB keyboard (manufacturing option)
• PS/2 or USB mouse (manufacturing option)
• Spearkers (for selected models only)
• User's Guide and Starter poster
Other user documentation and third party software.
Connecting the peripherals
Note: Don't connect system power cord before connecting all
peripherals to the system.
Starting your computer
After connecting all the peripheral equipment, start your computer
according to the below steps:
1 Power on all peripheral equipment, such as monitor, printer, fax,
speakers etc.
2 Turn on the system. Once the start-up process is complete, you can
begin to use the computer.
Shutting down your computer
From the "Start" Menu, select "Shut Down" and click OK.
In the event of a system crash, press and hold the power button on the
front of the system for four seconds. After the system has shut down,
turn off all peripheral devices.

9
English
Troubleshooting
The following questions are possible situations that may arise during
the use of your computer and each is followed by simple answers and
solutions to the situation.
Q: I pressed the power switch but the system did not boot up.
A: Check the LED located above the power switch.
If the LED is not lit, no power is being applied to the system. Do any of
the following:
• Check if the voltage selector switch located on the rear panel of
the computer is set to the correct voltage.
• Check if you properly plugged the power cable into an electrical
outlet.
• If you are using a power strip or AVR, make sure that it is plugged
in and turned on.
If the LED is lit, check the following:
• Is a non bootable (non system) diskette in the floppy drive? If yes,
remove or replace it with a system diskette and press Ctrl + Alt +
Del to restart your computer.
Q: Nothing appears on the screen.
A: Your computer's power management function automatically blanks
the screen to save power. Press any key to turn the display back on.
If pressing a key does not work, your computer. If restarting your
computer does not work, contact your dealer or the technical support
center for assistance.
Q: The printer does not work.
A: Do the following:
• Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and that
it is turned on.
• Make sure that the printer cable is connected securely to the
system's parallel port and the corresponding port on the printer.
• For additional information concerning the printer, refer to the
printer's documentation.
Q: No sound comes out from the speakers.

Troubleshooting10
English
A: Check the following:
• The volume may be muted. Look for the Volume icon on the
taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click on the icon and deselect the Mute
option. You can also press the volume control/mute knob on your
USB keyboard to toggle the mute function.
• If headphones, earphones, or external speakers are connected to
the line-out jack of your computer, the internal or built-in
speakers are automatically turned off.
Q: System cannot read diskette, hard disk, CD or DVD information.
A: Check the following:
• Make sure that you are using the correct type of media.
• Check if the diskette is formatted correctly. If not, format it again.
Caution: If you reformat a diskette, you will lose any data on it.
Make sure the diskette, CD or DVD is inserted into the drive correctly.
• Check if the CD or DVD is clean and not scratched.
• Check your drive by using a good (i.e., undamaged) diskette or a
good disc. If your floppy drive, CD or DVD drive can not read the
information on the good diskette, CD or DVD there may be a
problem with the drive. Contact your dealer or technical support
center for assistance.
Q: System cannot write diskette, hard disk or disc.
A: Check the following:
• Make sure the media is not write-protected.
• Make sure that you are using the correct type of diskette. Check if
the diskette is formatted correctly. If not, format it again.
Caution: If you reformat a diskette, you will lose any data on it.

11
English
Taking Care of your computer
Please read the important instructions listed in this section. Following
these instructions will help you maximize the durability of your
computer.
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 cord.
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.

Taking Care of your computer12
English
To clean your pointing device
To clean your mouse (with rubber ball)
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 replace the cover.
To clean your optical mouse
For users of an optical mouse, refer to the documentation that came
with your mouse for maintenance instructions.
To clean your monitor
Make sure that you keep your screen clean. For cleaning instructions,
refer to the documentation that came with your monitor.
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.
Asking for technical assistance
For technical assistance, contact your local dealer or distributor. You
may also access the Acer Web site (www.acersupport.com) for
information on how and where to contact the service centers available
in your area.

13
English
Energy Star Guidelines Compliance
As an Engery Partner, Acer Inc., has determined that this product meets the
Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency.
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: Shielded 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 non-certified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV
reception.
FCC Caution
Any 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.

14
English
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 materiel brouilleur du Canada.
Declaration of Conformity for EU countries
Hereby, Acer, declares that this personal computer is in compliance with the
essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.
Modem notices
Notice for USA
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. Located on the bottom
side of the modem is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC
Registration Number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this equipment.
Upon request, you must provide this information to your telephone company.
If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the
telephone company may discontinue your service temporarily. If possible, they
will notify you in advance. But, if advance notice is not practical, you will be
notified as soon as possible. You will also be informed of your right to file a
complaint with the FCC.
Your telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment,
operations, or procedures that could affect the proper functioning of your
equipment. If they do, you will be notified in advance to give you an
opportunity to maintain uninterrupted telephone service.
If this equipment should fail to operate properly, disconnect the equipment
from the phone line to determine if it is causing the problem. If the problem is
with the equipment, discontinue use and contact your dealer or vendor.

15
English
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger UL Listed or
CSA Certified Telecommunication Line Cord.
TBR 21
This equipment has been approved [Council Decision 98/482/EC - "TBR 21"] for
pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone
Network (PSTN). However, due to differences between the individual PSTNs
provided in different countries, the approval does not, of itself, give an
unconditional assurance of successful operation on every PSTN termination
point. In the event of problems, you should contact your equipment supplier in
the first instance.
Notice for Australia
For safety reasons, only connect headsets with a telecommunications
compliance label. This includes customer equipment previously labelled
permitted or certified.
Important safety instructions
Read these instructions carefully. Save them for future reference.
1Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
2Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use
liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
3Do not use this product near water.
4Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product
may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
5Slots and openings 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.
6This 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.
7Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this
product where persons will walk on the cord.

16
English
8If 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.
9Never 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:
aWhen the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
bIf liquid has been spilled into the product.
cIf the product has been exposed to rain or water.
dIf 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.
eIf the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged.
fIf the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a
need for service.
12 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).
13 Always disconnect all telephone lines from the wall outlet before serving
or disassembling this equipment.
14 Avoid using a telephone line (other than cordless type) during an
electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from
lightning.