Acer MG3001-p User manual

Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Acer MediaGateWay MG3001-p
User's Guide
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Copyright © 2005 Acer Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.
Acer MG3001-p User’s Guide
Original Issue: May 2005
Disclaimer
Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to
notify any person of such revisions 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 Acer MG3001-p. All correspondence 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, electronically, mechanically, by photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.
Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Other companies' product
names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to their respective
companies.
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
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Third Party Software or Free Software License Information
Software pre-loaded, embedded or otherwise distributed with the
products provided by Acer does contain free or third party software
programs (“Free Software”), which are licensed under the terms GNU
General Public License (the “GPL”). The Free Software is marked as such.
Your copying, distribution and/or modification of the Free Software shall
be subject to the terms of the GPL.
The Free Software is distributed in the hope that it will be useful,
but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied
warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. The provisions of the GNU General Public License shall
always apply. You may access http://www.gnu.org directly to
obtain a copy of the GPL or write to the Free Software Foundation,
Inc. for asking a copy of which. The Address of the Free Software
Foundation, Inc is: 59 Temple Place - Suite 330, Boston, MA, 02111-
307, USA.
the
of media, shipping, and
also link to this website to download it:
ttp://www.acer.com
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For a period of three (3) years as commencing from your receipt of
this software, you may obtain a complete machine-readable copy
of the source code for the Free Software under the terms of
GPL without charge except for the cost
handling, upon written request to us.
In addition, you might
h
Contact us if you have any further questions. Our mailing address is: A
Inc., 8F
cer
, 88, Sec. 1, Hsin Tai Wu Rd., Hsichih, Taipei Hsien 221, Taiwan,
R.O.C.

Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Cautions
WARNING
Unplug the equipment from the power source during an electrical storm. Lightning
may cause electric shock or damage to the equipment. Do not touch the equipment
during a storm.
WARNING
This equipment is for use only in the country of purchase. Using this equipment with
a different voltage may cause a fire or electric shock. Use of this equipment in other
countries may be prohibited by local laws.
WARNING
Do not connect inappropriate network or phone lines to the Ethernet port. Connect
only 10/100 Base-TX cables to the Ethernet port. Connecting inappropriate network
or phone lines to the Ethernet port may result in an electric current overload that can
result in malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the port. For help on connecting to a
network, see a qualified technician.
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Acer MG3001-p User’s Guide
Important safety instructions
Read these instructions carefully. Save them for future reference.
1. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
2. Unplug this product from the power outlet before cleaning. Use a soft cloth, moistened
with water for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
3. Do not use this product near water. Do not spill water or any other liquid on this product.
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 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. Placing
the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface should be avoided. 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 source indicated on the label. If
you are unsure of the type of power source available, consult your dealer or local power
company.
7. Do not step on or place heavy objects on the power cord. Carefully route the power cord
and any other cables away from foot traffic.
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.
9. Never push objects of any kind into this product through ventilation slots as they may touch
dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
10. Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing the cover may
expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel.
11. Unplug this product from the power 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 case has been damaged.
f. if the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.
12. Use only the correct power supply cord (provided in your accessories box) for this product.
Always disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet before servicing or disassembling
this equipment.
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Cleaning and servicing
When cleaning your Acer MG3001-p, follow these steps:
• Turn off the appliance.
• Disconnect the power cord and AC adapter.
• Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
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Acer MG3001-p User’s Guide
Contents
Important safety instructions................................................................................................ 5
1First things first ............................................................................................ 10
About the Acer MG3001-p .................................................................................................. 10
Package contents ........................................................................................................ 11
2An Acer MG3001-p overview ...................................................................... 12
Front view ................................................................................................................... 12
Open front view/display area..................................................................................... 12
Rear view ..................................................................................................................... 13
Remote control .................................................................................................................... 14
General Keys ........................................................................................................................ 15
3Connecting the system ................................................................................ 16
System Requirements .......................................................................................................... 16
Connecting the power cord ................................................................................................ 17
Setting up the remote control ............................................................................................ 17
Connecting your MG3001-p ................................................................................................ 18
Example home network ...................................................................................................... 22
4Configuring the system software................................................................ 23
Installing Acer eConsole software ...................................................................................... 23
Using eConsole Software .................................................................................................... 26
Using eConsole software..................................................................................................... 27
eConsole modes .......................................................................................................... 27
Managing media servers ..................................................................................................... 28
Managing music files........................................................................................................... 29
Sharing music ....................................................................................................................... 29
Creating a new music folder ............................................................................................... 30
Viewing music folders ......................................................................................................... 31
Editing music information................................................................................................... 31
Synchronous Folders ............................................................................................................ 32
Creating playlists and favorites........................................................................................... 33
Deleting folders, files, playlists, and favorites ................................................................... 34
Managing picture files ........................................................................................................ 35
Sharing pictures ................................................................................................................... 35
Creating a new picture folder............................................................................................. 36
Viewing picture folders ....................................................................................................... 36
Editing picture information ................................................................................................ 37
Favorites ............................................................................................................................... 38
Managing video files........................................................................................................... 39
Sharing video.......................................................................................................... 39
Creating a new video folder .................................................................................. 40
Viewing video folders.......................................................................................................... 40
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Creating and editing favorites............................................................................................ 42
Copying an audio CD........................................................................................................... 43
Searching for Media ............................................................................................................ 44
Settings menu ...................................................................................................................... 45
Account manager ................................................................................................................ 45
Device manager ................................................................................................................... 46
Advanced Settings ...............................................................................................................47
5Using your Acer MG3001-p ......................................................................... 52
Setting up your MG3001-p.................................................................................................. 52
Network Settings >Server Selection................................................................. 57
If successful, you will be presented with a list of media servers using that access point.... 57
Network Settings >Server Selection................................................................. 58
Firmware updates ................................................................................................................59
Operating the Acer MG3001-p......................................................................... 61
Navigation tips..................................................................................................................... 61
Navigation using the console buttons................................................................................ 62
The soft keyboard................................................................................................................ 62
The Acer MG3001-p main menu ......................................................................................... 63
Using your Acer MG3001- ................................................................................................... 63
Icon guide............................................................................................................................. 63
Music mode.......................................................................................................................... 65
Song details.......................................................................................................................... 66
Color shortcuts ..................................................................................................................... 66
Viewing mode...................................................................................................................... 67
Playlists ................................................................................................................................. 67
Listening to a playlist........................................................................................................... 67
Listening to favorites........................................................................................................... 67
Programming songs............................................................................................................. 68
Picture mode........................................................................................................................ 69
Viewing picture content...................................................................................................... 69
Viewing pictures .................................................................................................................. 70
Viewing mode...................................................................................................................... 70
Color shortcuts ..................................................................................................................... 70
Slideshows ............................................................................................................................ 71
Viewing a slideshow............................................................................................................ 71
Editing slideshow time intervals ......................................................................................... 71
Viewing video clips .............................................................................................................. 73
Viewing Method ..................................................................................................................73
Color Shortcuts..................................................................................................................... 73
Picture-in-Picture mode (PIP) .............................................................................................. 74
General commands .............................................................................................................. 75
Copying media..................................................................................................................... 75
Accessing media from a USB 2.0 drive................................................................................ 76
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Acer MG3001-p User’s Guide
Searching for files ................................................................................................................ 76
Settings menu ...................................................................................................................... 78
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................... 83
Technical Glossary................................................................................................................ 85
Encryption ............................................................................................................................ 87
Product specification ...........................................................................................................88
Supported file formats ........................................................................................................ 89
File formats .......................................................................................................................... 89
Warranty information ...................................................................................... 91
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
1 First things first
About the Acer MG3001-p
The Acer MG3001-p seamlessly integrates your home computer and home
entertainment system, delivering all the electronic media content of your PC to your
living room. Sit back and relax while listening to your favorite music, browsing a
photo album, or watching your video clips, all from the comfort of your armchair.
When connected to an Acer PC that contains your video and audio files, the Acer
MG3001-p enables you to display photos, play video content, or listen to music files
using your TV screen or stereo equipment.
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Acer MG3001-p User’s Guide
Package contents
When you unpack your Acer MG3001-p, please ensure that you have all the supplied
accessories.
Acer MG3001-p console (x 1) Antenne (x1) Triple (RCA) audio/video cable
(x1)
S-video cable (x1) SCART cable (x1) Remote control unit with 2 x
AAA batteries
RJ-45 LAN cable (x1) EU AC power adapter (x1) UK AC power adapter (x1)
Software installation CD (x1) Warranty booklet (x1) User's Guide
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
2 An Acer MG3001-p overview
Locating controls, jacks, and ports
This section describes the controls, jacks, and ports available on your MG3001-p
console, plus the layout and functions of your MG3001-p remote control unit.
Front view
1. VFD display panel
2. Power indicator LED
3. Wireless indicator LED
4. Power button
Open front view/display area
1. Information display screen
2. Navigation buttons
3. Media control buttons
4. USB 2.0 port
5. Power indicator LED
6. Wireless indicator LED
7. Power button
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Acer MG 3001-P User's Guide
Rear view
1. Power jack – connects to the AC power adapter cable
2. Audio jacks (L&R) – connect to red and white audio cables
3. Video jack – connects to a yellow video cable
4. S-video jack – connects to an S-video cable
5. Coaxial jack – connects to a coaxial audio cable
6. S/PDIF jack – connects to a digital audio cable
7. Component jacks – connect to component video cables
8. SCART jack – connects to a SCART cable
9. RJ-45 LAN jack – connects to an Ethernet LAN
10. Reset button – returns the MG3001-P to its original factory settings
11. Antenna – receives wireless data from your PC
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Remote control
Your MG3001-p is controlled using a remote control unit. The remote unit can be
used to start and stop music playback, create an ad-hoc playlist, adjust the volume,
and set user preferences.
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Acer MG 3001-P User's Guide
General Keys
Item Description
POWER button Press to turn the power on or off
DISPLAY button Press to change the display mode (PIP) during video playback
MUTE button Press to turn off/restore the sound
Number keys (0-9) Press to enter numeric data
Acer e Empowering
key
Press to return to the main menu
SEARCH button Search for an item using the soft keyboard
MUSIC button Shortcut to music mode
PICTURE button Shortcut to picture mode
BACK button Return to previous page
VIDEO button Shortcut to video mode
Directional buttons Press a button to navigate between options on each menu page
(up, down, left and right)
OK button Press to select the chosen option
Page button Press to move the page up (+) and down (-)
Volume button Press to increase (+) or decrease (-) the volume
SLIDE button Push to begin a slideshow
COPY button Copy an item to a specific location
OPTION button Press to reveal the options for each item
INFO button Displays the information for the selected item
REWIND button Rewind during music or video playback
VIDEO OUTPUT
button
Press to toggle between different output sources (SCART, S-video,
Component, etc.)
PLAY button Press to begin playback of video or music
FAST-FORWARD
button
Fast-forward during video playback
PREV button Press to return to the previous music track, or video
SOUND TRACKS
button
Press to toggle between different sound modes (left, right, stereo,
etc)
STOP button Press to stop
NEXT button Press to advance to the next music track, or video
COLOR buttons Shortcut functions dependent on menu
The default video signal for the MG3001-p is 480i. If your TV is high-definition
enabled, you can select either 720p or 1080i high definition settings from the
settings menu. Alternatively you can use the ‘video output’ button on the
remote control to select the correct setting.
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
3 Connecting the system
This chapter contains information about setting up your Acer MG3001-p device and
its connections.
System Requirements
Your PC or notebook computer must meet the following requirements in order to be
compatible with the MG3001-p:
 Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP Home or Professional Edition installed
 Acer eConsole software installed
 Computer CPU - Pentium II 400 MHz (at least)
 Computer memory - 128 MB (at least)
 Hard disk – at least 10 MB of space for program installation (this does not
include your media library)
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Acer MG 3001-P User's Guide
Connecting the power cord
1. Locate the AC input port on the rear of the device and insert the power cord jack.
2. Insert the connector end of the power cord into the AC adapter.
3. Insert the power cord plug into the power source.
Setting up the remote control
1. Open the cover on the back of the remote unit.
2. Insert two AAA batteries (supplied) by the matching the + and – on the batteries
to the diagram inside the battery compartment.
Taking care of your remote control
Follow these steps to ensure proper care of your remote control:
• Handle the remote control with care. Dropping it, placing it in direct sunlight,
or allowing it to get wet may cause damage.
• Do not tamper with the batteries, and keep them away from children.
• When you anticipate that the remote control will not be used for an extended
period, remove the batteries to prevent possible damage from battery
leakage.
• Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Recycle if possible.
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Connecting your MG3001-p
All the audio, video, and network connections needed for the acer MG3001-p are located
on the rear of the console. Depending on which type of input your TV or stereo equipment
has, follow the instructions below to connect your MG3001-p.
Composite audio cables
Plug the red and white connectors (supplied) into the corresponding color-coded jacks on
the rear of the console, and then plug the other end into the corresponding jacks on your
TV or audio/video system.
Composite video cable
Plug the yellow connector (supplied) into the corresponding color-coded jack on the rear
of the console and the plug the other end into the corresponding jack on your TV.
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Acer MG 3001-P User's Guide
S-video cable
Plug the S-video cable (supplied) into the connector on the rear of the console and the
other end into your TV's connector.
S/PDIF co-axial digital audio cable
Connect the coaxial connectors into the jack on the console and the other end into the
corresponding jack on your audio system.
S/PDIF optical digital audio cable
Insert the cable connector into the console port and the other end into the corresponding
jack on your audio system.
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Acer MG3001-p User's Guide
Component cables
Plug the color-coded connectors into the corresponding color-coded jacks on the rear of
the console, and then plug the other end into the component input jacks of your TV.
SCART connector
Plug the SCART connector (supplied) into the corresponding jack on the rear of the console
and plug the other end into the corresponding jack on the rear of your TV.
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