Acer TravelMate 5344 User manual

TravelMate 5744
User’s Manual

Model number: ______________________________________
Serial number: ______________________________________
Date of purchase: ____________________________________
Place of purchase: ___________________________________
© 2011 All Rights Reserved.
TravelMate 5744 User’s Manual
Original Issue: 05/2011

Information for your safety and comfort - 3
INFORMATION FOR YOUR SAFETY
AND COMFORT
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read these instructions carefully. Keep this document for future
reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
Turning the product off before cleaning
Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid
cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
Warnings
Accessing the power cord
Be sure that the power outlet you plug the power cord into is easily
accessible and located as close to the equipment operator as possible.
When you need to disconnect power to the equipment, be sure to unplug
the power cord from the electrical outlet.
Disconnecting the power source
Observe the following guidelines when connecting and disconnecting
power to the power supply unit:
Install the power supply unit before connecting the power cord to the AC
power outlet.

4
Unplug the power cord before removing the power supply unit from the
computer.
If the system has multiple sources of power, disconnect power from the
system by unplugging all power cords from the power supplies.
Using electrical power
• 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.
• Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this
product where people 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 rating. Also, make sure that the
total rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed
the fuse rating.
• Do not overload a power outlet, strip or receptacle by plugging in too
many devices. The overall system load must not exceed 80% of the
branch circuit rating. If power strips are used, the load should not
exceed 80% of the power strip's input rating.
• This product's AC adapter is equipped with a three-wire grounded
plug. The plug only fits in a grounded power outlet. Make sure the
power outlet is properly grounded before inserting the AC adapter plug.
Do not insert the plug into a non-grounded power outlet. Contact your
electrician for details.

Information for your safety and comfort - 5
Warning! The grounding pin is a safety feature. Using a power
outlet that is not properly grounded may result in electric shock
and/or injury.
Note: The grounding pin also provides good protection from
unexpected noise produced by other nearby electrical devices that
may interfere with the performance of this product.
• The system can be powered using a wide range of voltages; 100 to 120
or 220 to 240 V AC. The power cord included with the system meets
the requirements for use in the country/region where the system was
purchased. Power cords for use in other countries/regions must meet
the requirements for that country/region. For more information on
power cord requirements, contact an authorized reseller or service
provider.
Protecting your hearing
Warning: Permanent hearing loss may occur if earphones
or headphones are used at high volume for prolonged
periods of time.
To protect your hearing, follow these instructions.
• Increase the volume gradually until you can hear clearly and
comfortably.
• Do not increase the volume level after your ears have adjusted.
• Do not listen to music at high volumes for extended periods.

6
• Do not increase the volume to block out noisy surroundings.
• Decrease the volume if you can't hear people speaking near you.
Bundled dummy cards
Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer.
Your computer shipped with plastic dummies installed in the card slots.
Dummies protect unused slots from dust, metal objects or other particles. 
Save the dummies for use when no cards are in the slots.
General
• Do not use this product near water.
• Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand or table. If the
product falls, it could be seriously damaged.
• 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. 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.
• 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 onto
or into the product.

Information for your safety and comfort - 7
• To avoid damage of internal components and to prevent battery
leakage, do not place the product on a vibrating surface.
• Never use it under sporting, exercising, or any vibrating environment
which will probably cause unexpected short current or damage rotor
devices, HDD, Optical drive, and even exposure risk from lithium
battery pack.
• The bottom surface, areas around ventilation openings and AC adapter
may get hot. To avoid injury, ensure they do not come in contact with
your skin or body.
• Your device and its enhancements may contain small parts. Keep them
out of the reach of small children.
Product servicing
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.
Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel when:
• The power cord or plug is damaged, cut or frayed.
• Liquid was spilled into the product.
• The product was exposed to rain or water.
• The product has been dropped or the case has been damaged.
• The product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a
need for service.

8
• The product does not operate normally after following the operating
instructions.
Note: 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.
Guidelines for safe battery usage
This notebook uses a Lithium-ion battery. Do not use it in a humid, wet or
corrosive environment. Do not put, store or leave your product in or near
a heat source, in a high temperature location, in strong direct sunlight, in
a microwave oven or in a pressurized container, and do not expose it to
temperatures over 60° C (140° F). Failure to follow these guidelines may
cause the battery to leak acid, become hot, explode or ignite and cause
injury and/or damage. Do not pierce, open or disassemble the battery. If
the battery leaks and you come into contact with the leaked fluids, rinse
thoroughly with water and seek medical attention immediately. For safety
reasons, and to prolong the lifetime of the battery, charging will not occur
at temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 40° C (104° F).
The full performance of a new battery is achieved only after two or three
complete charge and discharge cycles. The battery can be charged and
discharged hundreds of times, but it will eventually wear out. When the
operation time becomes noticeably shorter than normal, buy a new
battery. Use only the approved batteries, and recharge your battery only
with the approved chargers designated for this device.

Information for your safety and comfort - 9
Use the battery only for its intended purpose. Never use any charger or
battery that is damaged. Do not short-circuit the battery. Accidental
short-circuiting can occur when a metallic object such as a coin, clip or
pen causes direct connection of the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals
of the battery. (These look like metal strips on the battery.) This might
happen, for example, when you carry a spare battery in your pocket or
purse. Short-circuiting the terminals may damage the battery or the
connecting object.
The capacity and lifetime of the battery will be reduced if the battery is left
in hot or cold places, such as in a closed car in summer or winter. Always
try to keep the battery between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). A device
with a hot or cold battery may not work temporarily, even when the
battery is fully charged. Battery performance is especially limited in
temperatures well below freezing.
Do not dispose of batteries in a fire as they may explode. Batteries may
also explode if damaged. Dispose of batteries according to local
regulations. Please recycle when possible. Do not dispose as household
waste.
Wireless devices may be susceptible to interference from the battery,
which could affect performance.
Note: Please refer to www.acer.com for battery shipping
documents.

10
Replacing the battery pack
The notebook uses lithium batteries. Replace the battery with the same
type as that which came bundled with your product. Use of another
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not
disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep them away from
children. Follow local regulations when disposing of used
batteries.
CAUTION FOR OPTICAL DRIVE DEVICE
Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer.
CAUTION: This appliance contains a laser system and is classified as a
"CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT." In case of any trouble with this device,
please contact your nearest AUTHORIZED service station. To prevent
direct exposure to the laser beam, do not try to open the enclosure.
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID
EXPOSURE 
TO BEAM.
APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1 PRODUIT
LASERATTENTION: RADIATION DU FAISCEAU LASER INVISIBLE EN
CAS D’OUVERTURE. EVITTER TOUTE EXPOSITION AUX RAYONS.

Information for your safety and comfort - 11
LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE LASER KLASSE 1
VORSICHT: UNSICHTBARE LASERSTRAHLUNG, WENN ABDECKUNG
GEÖFFNET NICHT DEM STRAHLL AUSSETZEN
PRODUCTO LÁSER DE LA CLASE I
ADVERTENCIA: RADIACIÓN LÁSER INVISIBLE AL SER ABIERTO. EVITE
EXPONERSE A LOS RAYOS.
ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING VEDÅBNING SE IKKE IND I STRÅLEN.
VARO! LAVATTAESSA OLET ALTTINA LASERSÅTEILYLLE.
VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NÅR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNAD ÅLÅ
TUIJOTA SÅTEESEENSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN
VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NAR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNADSTIRRA EJ
IN I STRÅLEN
ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING NAR DEKSEL ÅPNESSTIRR IKKE INN I
STRÅLEN
Warning! For safety reasons, do not use non-compliant parts
when adding or changing components. Consult your reseller for
purchase options.
RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE
Warning! For safety reasons, turn off all wireless or radio
transmitting devices when using your laptop under the following
conditions. These devices may include, but are not limited to:
wireless LAN (WLAN), Bluetooth and/or 3G.

12
Remember to follow any special regulations in force in any area, and
always switch off your device when its use is prohibited or when it may
cause interference or danger. Use the device only in its normal operating
positions. This device meets RF exposure guidelines when used normally,
and it and its antenna are positioned at least 1.5 centimeters (5/8 inches)
away from your body. It should not contain metal and you should position
the device the above-stated distance from your body. To successfully
transmit data files or messages, this device requires a good quality
connection to the network. In some cases, transmission of data files or
messages may be delayed until such a connection is available. Ensure
that the above separation distance instructions are followed until the
transmission is completed. Parts of the device are magnetic. Metallic
materials may be attracted to the device, and persons with hearing aids
should not hold the device to the ear with the hearing aid. Do not place
credit cards or other magnetic storage media near the device, because
information stored on them may be erased.
MEDICAL DEVICES
Operation of any radio transmitting equipment, including wireless phones,
may interfere with the functionality of inadequately protected medical
devices. Consult a physician or the manufacturer of the medical device to
determine if they are adequately shielded from external RF energy or if
you have any questions. Switch off your device in health care facilities
when any regulations posted in these areas instruct you to do so.
Hospitals or health care facilities may be using equipment that could be
sensitive to external RF transmissions.

Information for your safety and comfort - 13
Pacemakers. Pacemaker manufacturers recommend that a minimum
separation of 15.3 centimeters (6 inches) be maintained between wireless
devices and a pacemaker to avoid potential interference with the
pacemaker. These recommendations are consistent with the independent
research by and recommendations of Wireless Technology Research.
Persons with pacemakers should do the following:
• Always keep the device more than 15.3 centimeters (6 inches) from the
pacemaker
• Not carry the device near your pacemaker when the device is switched
on. 
If you suspect interference, switch off your device, and move it.
Hearing aids. Some digital wireless devices may interfere with some
hearing aids. If interference occurs, consult your service provider.
VEHICLES
RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded
electronic systems in motor vehicles such as electronic fuel injection
systems, electronic anti-skid (anti-lock) braking systems, electronic
speed control systems, and air bag systems. For more information, check
with the manufacturer, or its representative, of your vehicle or any
equipment that has been added. Only qualified personnel should service
the device, or install the device in a vehicle. Faulty installation or service
may be dangerous and may invalidate any warranty that may apply to the
device. Check regularly that all wireless equipment in your vehicle is
mounted and operating properly. Do not store or carry flammable liquids,
gases, or explosive materials in the same compartment as the device, its

14
parts, or enhancements. For vehicles equipped with an air bag,
remember that air bags inflate with great force. Do not place objects,
including installed or portable wireless equipment in the area over the air
bag or in the air bag deployment area. If in-vehicle wireless equipment is
improperly installed, and the air bag inflates, serious injury could result.
Using your device while flying in aircraft is prohibited. Switch off your
device before boarding an aircraft. The use of wireless teledevices in an
aircraft may be dangerous to the operation of the aircraft, disrupt the
wireless telephone network, and may be illegal.
POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE ENVIRONMENTS
Switch off your device when in any area with a potentially explosive
atmosphere and obey all signs and instructions. Potentially explosive
atmospheres include areas where you would normally be advised to turn
off your vehicle engine. Sparks in such areas could cause an explosion or
fire resulting in bodily injury or even death. Switch off the device at
refueling points such as near gas pumps at service stations. Observe
restrictions on the use of radio equipment in fuel depots, storage, and
distribution areas; chemical plants; or where blasting operations are in
progress. Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are often, but not
always, clearly marked. They include below deck on boats, chemical
transfer or storage facilities, vehicles using liquefied petroleum gas (such
as propane or butane), and areas where the air contains chemicals or
particles such as grain, dust or metal powders. Do not switch the
notebook on when wireless phone use is prohibited or when it may cause
interference or danger.

Information for your safety and comfort - 15
EMERGENCY CALLS
Warning: You cannot make emergency calls through this device.
To make an emergency call you shall dial out through your
mobile phone or other telephone call system.
DISPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS
Do not throw this electronic device into the trash when
discarding. To minimize pollution and ensure utmost protection
of the global environment, please recycle. For more information
on the Waste from Electrical and Electronics Equipment (WEEE)
regulations, visit www.acer-group.com/public/Sustainability/
sustainability01.htm
Mercury advisory
For bulb-inside projectors or electronic products containing a
non-LED-backlit-LCD/CRT monitor or display: Lamp(s) inside
this product contain mercury and must be recycled or disposed
of according to local, state or federal laws. For more information, contact
the Electronic Industries Alliance at www.eiae.org. For lamp-specific
disposal information, check www.lamprecycle.org.

16
ENERGY STAR
Acer's ENERGY STAR qualified products save your money
by reducing energy cost and protecting the environment
without sacrificing features or performance. Acer is proud
to offer our customers products with the ENERGY STAR
mark.
What is ENERGY STAR?
Products that are ENERGY STAR qualified use less energy and prevent
greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines
set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Acer is committed to
offering products and services worldwide that help customers save
money, conserve energy and improve the quality of our environment. The
more energy we can save through higher energy efficiency, the more we
reduce greenhouse gases and the risks of climate change. More
information refers to 
www.energystar.gov or www.energystar.gov/powermanagement.
Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer.
Acer ENERGY STAR qualified products:
• Produce less heat and reduce cooling loads, and warmer climates.
• Automatically go into "display sleep" and "computer sleep" mode after
10 and 30 minutes of inactivity respectively.
• Wake the computer from sleep mode by pushing keyboard or moving
mouse.
• Computers will save more than 80% energy at "sleep" mode.

Information for your safety and comfort - 17
ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered U.S. marks
TIPS AND INFORMATION FOR COMFORTABLE USE
Computer users may complain of eyestrain and headaches after
prolonged use. Users are also at risk of physical injury after long hours of
working in front of a computer. Long work periods, bad posture, poor
work habits, stress, inadequate working conditions, personal health and
other factors greatly increase the risk of physical injury.
Incorrect computer usage may lead to carpal tunnel syndrome,
tendonitis, tenosynovitis or other musculoskeletal disorders. The
following symptoms may appear in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders,
neck or back:
• Numbness, or a burning or tingling sensation.
• Aching, soreness or tenderness.
• Pain, swelling or throbbing.
• Stiffness or tightness.
• Coldness or weakness.
If you have these symptoms, or any other recurring or persistent
discomfort and/or pain related to computer use, consult a physician
immediately and inform your company's health and safety department.
The following section provides tips for more comfortable computer use.

18
Finding your comfort zone
Find your comfort zone by adjusting the viewing angle of the monitor,
using a footrest, or raising your sitting height to achieve maximum
comfort. Observe the following tips:
• Refrain from staying too long in one fixed posture.
• Avoid slouching forward and/or leaning backward.
• Stand up and walk around regularly to remove the strain on your leg
muscles.
• Take short rests to relax your neck and shoulders.
• Avoid tensing your muscles or shrugging your shoulders.
• Install the external display, keyboard and mouse properly and within
comfortable reach.
• If you view your monitor more than your documents, place the display
at the center of your desk to minimize neck strain.
Taking care of your vision
Long viewing hours, wearing incorrect glasses or contact lenses, glare,
excessive room lighting, poorly focused screens, very small typefaces
and low-contrast displays could stress your eyes. The following sections
provide suggestions on how to reduce eyestrain.
Eyes
• Rest your eyes frequently.
• Give your eyes regular breaks by looking away from the monitor and
focusing on a distant point.

Information for your safety and comfort - 19
• Blink frequently to keep your eyes from drying out.
Display
• Keep your display clean.
• Keep your head at a higher level than the top edge of the display so
your eyes point downward when looking at the middle of the display.
• Adjust the display brightness and/or contrast to a comfortable level for
enhanced text readability and graphics clarity.
• Eliminate glare and reflections by:
• placing your display in such a way that the side faces the window or
any light source,
• minimizing room light by using drapes, shades or blinds,
• using a task light,
• changing the display's viewing angle,
• using a glare-reduction filter,
• using a display visor, such as a piece of cardboard extended from
the display's top front edge.
• Avoid adjusting your display to an awkward viewing angle.
• Avoid looking at bright light sources for extended periods of time.
Developing good work habits
The following work habits make computer use more relaxing and
productive:
• Take short breaks regularly and often.

20
• Perform some stretching exercises.
• Breathe fresh air as often as possible.
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body.
Warning! We do not recommend using the computer on a couch
or bed. If this is unavoidable, work for only short periods, take
breaks regularly, and do some stretching exercises.
Note: For more information, please refer to "Regulations and safety
notices" on page 88.