Acer TravelMate P2 Series User manual

USER’S MANUAL

2 -
© 2021. All Rights Reserved.
TravelMate P2
Covers: P215-52 / P215-52G / P215-53 / P215-53G / P215-41 / P215-41-G2 / P215-41-G3
This revision: October 2021
Register your Acer product
If your new device runs on Windows OS, you may have had your
product registered automatically while you start up your device with
Windows OS.
Log in at www.acer.com/myproducts with the email address you
registered for Windows OS to review your product record. (Reset your
password if you do not know it.)
If the record is not found, please follow the steps below to register.
1. Ensure you are connected to the Internet.
2. Go to www.acer.com/register-product.
3. Sign in or sign up for an Acer ID.
4. Enter S/N or SNID of your device to register it.
Important
This manual contains proprietary information that is protected by
copyright laws. The information contained in this manual is subject to
change without notice. Some features described in this manual may not
be supported depending on the Operating System version. Images
provided herein are for reference only and may contain information or
features that do not apply to your computer. Acer Group shall not be
liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained in this
manual.
Model number: _________________________________
Serial number: _________________________________
Date of purchase: _______________________________
Place of purchase: ______________________________
The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and
the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI
Licensing Administrator, Inc. in the United States and other countries.

Table of contents - 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
First things first 6
Your guides ............................................. 6
Basic care and tips for using your
computer.................................................. 6
Turning your computer off........................... 6
Taking care of your computer ..................... 7
Taking care of your AC adapter .................. 8
Cleaning and servicing................................ 8
Guidelines for safe battery usage ............... 9
Internal battery....................................... 11
Your Acer notebook tour 12
Screen view ........................................... 12
Keyboard view ..................................... 13
Left view ................................................ 14
USB 3.2 Gen 1 information ....................... 15
USB 3.1 Gen 1 information ....................... 15
USB Type-C information ........................... 15
Right view ............................................. 16
Front view .............................................. 17
Base view .............................................. 17
Using the keyboard 18
Lock keys.............................................. 18
Hotkeys.................................................. 18
The Windows OS Desktop 20
Tips and hints for using Windows.......... 21
Where are my apps?................................. 21
Can I turn off notifications? ....................... 21
How do I check for Windows updates?..... 21
Where can I get more information?........... 21
Using the Precision Touchpad 22
Touchpad gestures................................ 22
Changing touchpad settings .................. 24
Recovery 25
Creating a file history backup ................ 25
Backing up your wireless and LAN
drivers.................................................... 28
Restoring your computer ....................... 28
Reset this PC and keep my files ............... 28
Reset this PC and remove everything ...... 32
Using a Bluetooth connection 35
Enabling and disabling Bluetooth .......... 35
Enable Bluetooth and add a device .......... 35
Connecting to the Internet 37
Connecting to a wireless network.......... 37
Connecting to a wireless LAN................... 37
Connecting with a cable ........................ 41
Built-in network feature ............................. 41
Bluelight Shield 42
Acer ProShield Plus 44
Overview................................................ 44
Setting up Acer ProShield Plus.............. 44
File Encryption / Decryption ...................... 45
File Shredder ............................................ 46
Personal Secure Drive .............................. 46
Application Guard ..................................... 48
Browser Guard.......................................... 48
USB Device Filter...................................... 49
Alert........................................................... 49
Security Report ......................................... 50
Securing your computer 51
Using a computer security lock.............. 51
Using passwords ................................... 51
Entering passwords .................................. 52
Fingerprint Reader 53
How to use the fingerprint reader .......... 53
BIOS utility 57
Boot sequence....................................... 57
Setting passwords ................................. 57
Power management 58
Saving power ......................................... 58
Battery pack 60
Battery characteristics ........................... 60
Charging the battery ................................. 60
Optimizing battery life ............................... 61
Checking the battery level......................... 62
Battery-low warning .................................. 62
Traveling with your computer 63
Disconnecting from the desktop ............ 63
Moving around ....................................... 63
What to bring............................................. 64
Universal Serial Bus (USB) 66
USB Type-C port 67
Thunderbolt 4 port 68
Displays ................................................. 68
microSD card reader 69
Video and audio connectors 70
Connecting a monitor............................. 70
Headphones and microphone................ 70
HDMI 71
Frequently asked questions 73
Requesting service ................................ 75
Troubleshooting ..................................... 76

4 - Table of contents
Troubleshooting tips.................................. 76
Error messages......................................... 76
Internet and online security 78
First steps on the net ............................. 78
Protecting your computer.......................... 78
Choose an Internet Service Provider........ 78
Network connections................................. 80
Surf the Net!.............................................. 81
Internet security software.......................... 82

Getting started...
In this section you will find:
• Useful information on caring for your computer and your health
• Where to find the power button, ports and connectors
• Windows 11 interface overview
• Tips and tricks for using the touchpad and keyboard
• How to create recovery backups
• Guidelines for connecting to a network and using Bluetooth
• Information on using Acer’s bundled software

6 - First things first
FIRST THINGS FIRST
We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice
for meeting your mobile computing needs.
Your guides
To help you use your Acer notebook, we have designed a set of
guides:
First off, the Setup Guide helps you get started with setting up your
computer.
The Quick Guide introduces you to the basic features and functions
of your new computer. For more on how your computer can help you
to be more productive, please refer to the User’s Manual.This guide
contains detailed information on such subjects as system utilities, data
recovery, expansion options and troubleshooting.
Once you have connected to the internet, you can download updates
for your computer from:
http://go.acer.com/support
1. The link will open the Acer Support webpage.
2. Scroll down to Drivers and Manuals and search for your model by
pasting in or manually entering the serial number, SNID, or
product model.
3. From this page you can also download and install the Acer
identification utility that will automatically detect your computer’s
serial number and SNID and allow you to copy it to the clipboard.
4. Once you have found your product model, any updates, or
documents will be listed.
Basic care and tips for using your computer
Turning your computer off
To turn the power off, do any of the following:
• Use the Windows shutdown command: Press the Windows key or
select the Windows Start button, select Power > Shut down.

First things first - 7
• Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out >
Shut down.
If you need to power down the computer for a short while, but don’t
want to completely shut it down, you can put it to Sleep by doing any
of the following:
• Press the power button.
• Press the sleep hotkey.
• Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button, select
Power > Sleep.
• Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out >
Sleep.
Taking care of your computer
Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.
• Only use the adapter provided with your device, or an Acer-
approved adapter to power your device.
• Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it near
sources of heat, such as a radiator.
• Do not expose the computer to temperatures below 0º C (32º F) or
above 50º C (122º F).
• Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields.
• Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture.
• Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer.
• Do not subject the computer to heavy shock or vibration.
• Do not expose the computer to dust or dirt.
• Never place objects on top of the computer.
• Do not slam the computer display when you close it.
• Never place the computer on uneven surfaces.
Note
If you cannot power off the computer normally, press and hold the power
button for up to ten seconds to shut down the computer. If you turn off the
computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two seconds before
powering up.

8 - First things first
Taking care of your AC adapter
Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter:
• Do not connect the adapter to any other device.
• Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of it.
Route the power cord and any cables away from where people walk.
• When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself but
pull on the plug.
• The total ampere ratings 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.
Cleaning and servicing
When cleaning the computer, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Disconnect the AC adapter.
3. Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
If your computer is dropped or visibly damaged, or does not work
normally, please contact your nearest authorized Acer service center.

First things first - 9
Guidelines for safe battery usage
Precautions when charging batteries
The useful lifespan of a battery is adversely affected by the following
behavior:
• Constantly charging the battery/device when already at full capacity.
• Charging the battery/device at temperatures above 35 °C (95 °F) or
below 0 °C (32 °F).
To prevent damage, follow these precautions:
• Stop charging the battery once it reaches 100% capacity; regularly
or frequently charging a fully charged battery for an extended period
of time may cause battery deformation or damage. We recommend
that you recharge the device when the battery level drops below
70% capacity.
• Do not charge battery in temperatures above 35 °C (95 °F) or below
0 °C (32 °F). Charging in abnormally high or abnormally low
temperatures can cause battery deformation or damage.
• The charging port must be clean and free from debris and should
only be used with Acer charging equipment. Use of a non-Acer
battery or charging equipment can cause damage to the product
and will void the warranty.
• If you plan to store the device for a long period of time, turn-off the
device, remove AC power and store the product at room
temperature (0 °C - 35 °C) in a dry (humidity: 45% - 80%), well-
ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, high temperatures and high
humidity. Do not leave your device’s battery completely discharged
for a long period of time; this may cause battery deformation or
damage. We recommend that the battery is checked and charged to
approximately 50% capacity every 6 months.
Warning
When using a charging cart or a small space to simultaneously charge
or operate multiple devices , the area must be well- ventilated and the
temperature kept between 0 °C (32 °F) to 35 °C (95 °F) and battery
charging must be stopped when 100% capacity is reached.
Continuous charging can cause deformation or damage to the battery/
device.

10 - First things first
• ONLY CHARGE THE BATTERY IN A CLEAN, WELL VENTILATED
AREA.
Precautions when replacing the battery
Improper replacement or mishandling could damage the battery,
cause overheating, result in injury, and risk fire or explosion.
• Device with built-in battery: A built-in battery must be replaced by an
authorized service center. Do not attempt to replace or remove the
battery by yourself.
• Device with removable battery: The battery should only be replaced
with parts approved by Acer. Do not replace the battery with any
parts other than approved ones.
This notebook uses a Lithium-based 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 50 °C (122 °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 must not occur
at temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) or above 35 °C (95 °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, check an authorized reseller to purchase a new battery.
Warning
Batteries may explode if not handled properly.
Do not disassemble or dispose of batteries in fire.
Do not short external contacts, crush, puncture or otherwise tamper
with batteries. Keep batteries away from children.
Follow local regulations when disposing of used batteries.

First things first - 11
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.
Internal battery
• Do not attempt to replace a built-in rechargeable battery, battery
replacement must be done by an Acer- authorized repair facility.
Recharge the battery by following the instruction included in the
product documentation.
Note
Please refer to www.acer.com for battery shipping documents.

12 - Your Acer notebook tour
YOUR ACER NOTEBOOK TOUR
After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Setup Guide, let us
show you around your new Acer computer.
Screen view
Note
Illustrations are for reference only. Actual products specifications may vary.
#Icon Item Description
1 Microphone Internal digital microphone for sound
recording.
2Webcam
shutter
Slide the shutter to the right to cover
the webcam. Slide left to open it.
3 Webcam
Web camera for video communication.
A light next to the webcam indicates
that the webcam is active.
Displays computer output.
4Screen with
lay-flat hinge Displays computer output.
3
4
2
1

Your Acer notebook tour - 13
Keyboard view
#Icon Item Description
1 Speakers Deliver stereo audio output.
2 Keyboard
For entering data into your computer.
See "Using the keyboard" on page
18.
3Fingerprint reader
(optional)
Fingerprint reader for Windows Hello
and security.
4 Touchpad
Touch-sensitive pointing device.
The touchpad and selection buttons
form a single surface.
Press down firmly on the touchpad
surface to perform a left click.
Press down firmly on the lower right
corner to perform a right click.
5NFC transmitter
(optional)
Communicates with another NFC
enabled device.
6 Power button Press to turn the computer on and
off.
2
6
1
5
4
3

14 - Your Acer notebook tour
Left view
P215-52 / P215-52G / P215-41 / P215-41-G2 / P215-41-G3
P215-53 / P215-53G
1 2 43 57689
1 2 43 510689
#Icon Item Description
1 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter.
2Ethernet
(RJ-45) port
Connects to an Ethernet
10/100/1000-based network.
Pull the lip down to open the port fully.
3External display
(VGA) port
Connects to a display device (e.g.,
external monitor, LCD projector).
4 HDMI port Supports high-definition digital video
connections.
5
USB port with
power-off
charging
Connects to USB devices.
6 USB port Connects to USB devices.
7USB Type-C port
with DC-in
Connects to a USB Type-C power
adapter or to USB devices with a USB
Type-C connector.
Supports DisplayPort™over USB-C™.
8 SD card reader
Accepts one Secure Digital (SD or
SDHC) card.
Only one card can operate at a time.

Your Acer notebook tour - 15
USB 3.2 Gen 1 information
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 compatible ports are blue.
• Compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and earlier devices.
• For optimal performance, use USB 3.2 Gen 1-certified devices.
• Defined by the USB 3.2 Gen 1 specification (SuperSpeed USB).
USB 3.1 Gen 1 information
• USB 3.1 Gen 1 compatible ports are blue.
• Compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 1 and earlier devices.
• For optimal performance, use USB 3.1 Gen 1-certified devices.
• Defined by the USB 3.1 Gen 1 specification (SuperSpeed USB).
USB Type-C information
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 with transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps.
• USB 3.1 Gen 1 with transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps.
• Supports DisplayPort™audio/video output.
• Delivers up to 3 A at 5 V DC for USB charging.
• DC-in: requires power adapter or power source providing 65 W at
19/20 V.
For optimal performance, please use a certified Acer power adapter
or USB Power Delivery device.
9Headset/speaker
jack
Connects to audio devices (e.g.,
speakers, headphones) or a headset
with microphone.
10
USB Type-C port
with DC-in/
Thunderbolt™ 4
port
Connects to the provided USB Type-C
power adapter and to USB devices
with a USB Type-C connector.
Supports Thunderbolt™ 4 and
displays.
#Icon Item Description

16 - Your Acer notebook tour
Right view
#Icon Item Description
1
Power indicator Indicates the computer’s power
status.
Battery indicator
Indicates the computer’s battery
status.
Charging: The light shows amber
when the battery is charging.
Fully charged: The light shows blue
when in AC mode.
2 USB port Connects to USB devices.
3SIM SIM card slot
(optional) Insert a nano SIM card into the slot.
Note: The SIM ejection tool diagram is for reference only, actual
product accessories may vary by specifications.
4Kensington lock
slot
Connects to a Kensington-compatible
security lock.
1234

Your Acer notebook tour - 17
Front view
Base view
#Icon Item Description
1SC Smart Card
reader (optional)
Accepts one smart card.
Only one smart card can be read at a
time.
#Icon Item Description
1Ventilation and
cooling fan
Allows the computer to stay cool.
Do not cover or obstruct the
openings.
2Battery reset
pinhole
Simulates removing and reinstalling
the battery.
Insert a paperclip into the hole and
press for four seconds.
1
12

18 - Using the keyboard
USING THE KEYBOARD
The keyboard has full-sized keys, a numeric keypad, separate cursor,
lock, Windows keys and hotkeys.
Lock keys
The keyboard has lock keys which you can use to turn keyboard
functions on and off.
Hotkeys
To activate hotkeys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the
other key in the hotkey combination.
Lock key Description
Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters
typed are in uppercase.
Num Lock
When Num Lock is on, the keypad is in numeric
mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete
with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /). Use this
mode when you need to do a lot of numeric data
entry.
Scroll Lock
When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line
up or down when you press the up or down arrow
keys respectively. Scroll Lock does not work with
some applications.
Hotkey Icon Function Description
Fn + F1 Sleep Puts the computer in Sleep
mode.
Fn + F2 Flight mode Turns on / off the computer's
network devices.
Fn + F3 Brightness
down
Decreases the screen
brightness.
Fn + F4 Brightness up Increases the screen
brightness.

Using the keyboard - 19
Fn + F5 Display toggle
Switches display output
between the display screen,
external monitor (if connected)
and both.
Fn + F6 Display off
Turns the display screen
backlight off to save power.
Press any key to return.
Fn + F7 Touchpad
toggle
Turns the built-in touchpad on
and off.
Fn + F8 Keyboard
backlight toggle
Turns the keyboard backlight
on and off.
Fn + F9 Speaker toggle Turns the speakers on and off.
Fn + F10 Volume down Decreases the sound volume.
Fn + F11 Volume up Increases the sound volume.
Fn + F12 Num
Lk Numeric Lock Turns Numeric Lock on or off.
Fn + Home Play/Pause Plays or pauses a selected
media file.
Fn + Pg Up Stop Stops playing the selected
media file.
Fn + Pg Dn Previous Returns to the previous media
file.
Fn + End Next Jumps to the next media file.
Hotkey Icon Function Description

20 - The Windows OS Desktop
THE WINDOWS OS DESKTOP
#Item Description
1 Settings Changes the apps settings for your
computer.
2Start Launches apps, through Pinned,
Recommended, or All apps.
3Search Types in the texts to search on your
computer and the Internet.
4 Task View Allows to switch between running
applications and add the virtual desktop.
5 Widgets Provides the weather, news, stocks, and
sports information.
6 Power Shut down, sleep or restart your computer.
7 Quick settings
Displays the situation of network
connection, battery level and sound
setting. You can toggle quick actions to
instantly adjust or open settings.
8 Notification Displays the notifications and calendar.
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