Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi User manual

Regulatory Information
The following sections contain notices for various countries:
CAUTION: This product is intended for use with FCC/CE certified computer equipment. Please check the
equipment operating/installation manual and/or with the equipment manufacturer to verify/confirm if your
equipment is suita le prior to the installation or use of the product.
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Interference Statement
FCC Part 1 : This equipment has een 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 reasona le protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment 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 equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can e determined y turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference y one or more of the following measures:
 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the separation etween the equipment and receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is su ject 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.
CAUTION: To comply with the limits of the Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules,
this device must e installed with computer equipment certified to comply with Class B limits.
All ca les used to connect to the computer and peripherals must e shielded and grounded. Operation
with non-certified computers or non-shielded ca les may results in interference to radio or television
reception.
MODIFICATION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved y the grantee of this device could
void the user's authority to operate the device.
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.
This transmitter must not e co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
For ody operation, Sound Blaster X-Fi Note ook has een tested and meets the FCC RF exposure
guidelines when used directly against the ody. Specific A sorption Rate, or SAR is a measurement of
radio frequency energy. The FCC permits a maximum SAR value of 1.6 mW/g. The highest SAR value for
this product when used on the ody, as descri ed in this user guide, is 0.292 mW/g.
California Proposition 6 Statement
WARNING: Handling this product may expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer and irth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
Explanatory Note: California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (Proposition 65)
requires special product la eling for products containing certain chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer, irth defects or other reproductive harm. Creative has chosen to provide a warning ased
on its knowledge a out the presence of one or more listed chemicals without attempting to evaluate the
level of exposure. With Creative's products, the exposure may e elow the Proposition 65 level of
concern, or could even e zero. However, out of an a undance of caution, Creative has elected to place
Page
1
of
2
Regulatory Information
13/6/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\ ppData\Local\Temp\~hh24FE.htm

the Proposition 65 warning on its products.
Déclaration de la Proposition 6 de la Californie
AVERTISSEMENT: La manipulation de ce produit peut vous exposer à des produits chimiques qui sont
reconnus par l'État de la Californie comme pouvant provoquer le cancer, des anomalies congénitales ou
d'autres effets nuisi les à la reproduction.
Veuillez vous laver les mains après l'avoir manipuler.
Note explicative: La Proposition 65 (California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986)
de la Californie sur les matières dangereuses et l'eau pota le exige un étiquetage spécial pour les
produits contenant certains produits chimiques qui sont reconnus par l'État de la Californie comme
pouvant provoquer le cancer, des anomalies congénitales ou d'autres effets nuisi les à la reproduction.
Creative a choisi d'inclure une mise en garde s'appuyant sur sa connaissance de la présence d'un ou de
plusieurs de ces produits chimiques sans essayer d'en évaluer le niveau d'exposition. Pour les produits de
Creative, le niveau d'exposition peut être inférieur au niveau critique éta li par la Proposition 65 ou même
être nul. Néanmoins, par souci extrême de prudence, Creative a choisi de placer l'avertissement de la
Proposition 65 sur ses produits.
Notice for Canada
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
CANADIAN CLASS B STATEMENT: This digital device does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital
Apparatus," ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.
Cet appareil numerique respecte les limites de ruits radioelectriques applica les aux appareils
numeriques de Classe B prescrites dans la norme sur le materiel rouilleur: "Appareils Numeriques,"
NMB-003 edictee par le ministre des Communications.
MODIFICATION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved y the grantee of this device could
void the user's authority to operate the device.
Toute modification non approuvée explicitement par le fournisseur de licence de l'appareil peut entraîner
l'annulation du droit de l'utilisateur à utiliser l'appareil.
European Compliance
This product conforms to the following:
General Product Safety Directive 2001/95/EC.
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
Mains operated products for the European market comply with Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC.
Communication / RF wireless products for the European market comply with R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC.
CAUTION: To comply with the Europe CE requirement, this device must e installed with CE certified
computer equipment which meet with Class B limits.
All ca les used to connect this device must e shielded, grounded and no longer than 3m in length.
Operation with non-certified computers or incorrect ca les may result in interference to other devices or
undesired effects to the product.
MODIFICATION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved y Creative Technology Limited or
one of its affiliated companies could void the user's warranty and guarantee rights.
Page
2
of
2
Regulatory Information
13/6/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee Fong\ ppData\Local\Temp\~hh24FE.htm

How to use this manual
This document is designed to provide you with direct access to vital product knowledge. You can resize
the document window, print this document and access linked web sites.
To jump to a linked topic or web site:
 Click the underlined blue text, or the hand symbol whenever it appears.
To print portions o this document:
1. On the Contents tabbed page to your le t, click a topic heading.
2. On the Menu, click the Print button.
3. In the dialog box that appears, click the option to print one topic only, or all topics under a heading,
then click the OK button.
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase o Creative's audio revolution or notebooks, Sound Blaster
®
X-Fi
TM
Notebook! With cutting edge technology rom the leaders in PC audio, Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook will
give you years o reliable entertainment on your ExpressCard
TM
-enabled notebook.
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is also capable o streaming music wirelessly to supported devices and
control them using the so tware provided. For a list o supported devices, visit www.x-fi.com.
This User's Guide contains so tware installation and usage in ormation or your audio device.
What is ExpressCard?
This technology is the latest standard in expansion modules or your computer. ExpressCard modules are
lighter, thinner and aster than the older PCMCIA modules, and can be inserted or taken out without
turning o your computer.
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is an ExpressCard module that takes advantage o your computer's
PCI Express
®
and USB 2.0 capabilities. ExpressCard modules also use less power, saving your notebook
batteries or critical tasks.
System Requirements
inimum Requirements
 Microso t
®
Windows Vista
®
64-bit with Service Pack 1 (SP1), Windows Vista 32-bit with SP1,
Windows
®
XP Pro essional x64 Edition, Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) or Service Pack 3
(SP3), Windows XP Media Center Edition (MCE) 2004 or later
 Intel
®
Pentium
®
M, Intel Core
TM
, AMD Turion
TM
series or equivalent mobile processor 1.66 GHz, or
aster
 Intel, AMD
®
or 100% compatible motherboard chipset
 For Windows Vista: 512 MB RAM (1 GB RAM recommended)
 For Windows XP: 256 MB RAM
 600 MB o ree hard disk space
 Available ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 slot
 CD-ROM/CD-RW or DVD-ROM drive required or so tware installation
Additional Requirements (where applicable)
DVD-Video
 6x or aster DVD-ROM drive
 DVD player so tware such as InterVideo
®
WinDVD
®
or CyberLink
®
PowerDVD
TM
(latest version
recommended) installed
 Headphones or ampli ied speakers (optional)
Page
1
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Notes
 Other applications may have higher system requirements. Re er to the applications' documentation
or details.
ore Help
Visit www.soundblaster.com/X-Fi or the latest news and products or X-Fi and Sound Blaster. The site
also includes in ormation on making purchases, technical help, and the latest driver updates.
Using Creative Software AutoUpdate
Locating, downloading, and installing updates or your Creative products is now simpler and aster with the
web-based Creative So tware AutoUpdate system.
When you connect to Creative So tware AutoUpdate via the Internet, the web site will analyze your
computer system to determine what operating system (OS), language, and Creative products are installed
in your system.
A ter the online analysis, you will be able to select rom a list o only the most relevant so tware and driver
updates. The iles will then be retrieved and installed on your system or you.
To learn more about Creative So tware AutoUpdate, go to www.soundblaster.com/support.
Notes
 First-time users o Creative So tware AutoUpdate may be prompted to authorize the download o a
browser component required or system inspection. Ensure that the content is signed by Creative
Labs, Inc., then click the Yes button.
 Ensure that all your Creative products are connected and installed on the same computer running
Creative So tware AutoUpdate.
About Your Hardware
Re er to the Quick Start lea let or instructions on installing your audio device.
To learn more about your product, consult the ollowing sections:
 Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook
Notes
 Actual products may di er slightly rom those shown in this chapter.
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook
Your audio device has the jacks and connectors below to enable the attachment o a wide variety o
devices. It also includes the ollowing eatures:
Connectivity or
Features Description
Page
2
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Installing and Uninstalling Software
To take ull advantage o your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook, you need to install device drivers and
applications. At times, you may also need to uninstall or reinstall some or all o the device drivers and
applications to correct problems, change con igurations, or upgrade outdated drivers or applications. To
learn how to do so in all supported Windows operating systems, consult the ollowing sections:
 Installing Drivers and Applications
 Reinstalling Drivers and Applications
 Uninstalling Drivers and Applications
 Installing/Uninstalling Selected Drivers and Applications
Installing Drivers and Applications
Ensure that your audio device is installed before proceeding. For instructions on installing your
audio device, consult your Quick Start leaflet.
A ter you have installed your audio device into the ExpressCard slot, turn on your notebook. Windows
automatically detects your audio device and searches or device drivers.
For Windows Vista
1. Insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive. Your CD should
start automatically. I it does not, ollow the steps below:
i. Click Start Computer.
ii. Right-click the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive icon, and then click Open Autoplay.
2. To complete the installation, ollow the instructions on the screen.
3. When prompted, restart your notebook.
For Windows XP
When prompted or the audio drivers, click the Cancel button.
1. Insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive. Your CD should
start automatically. I it does not, ollow the steps below:
i. Double-click the y Computer icon on your desktop.
Alternatively, click Start y Computer.
ii. Right-click the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive icon, and then click Autoplay.
2. To complete the installation, ollow the instructions on the screen.
3. When prompted, restart your notebook.
Reinstalling Drivers and Applications
For Windows Vista
1. Click Start Control Panel Uninstall a program.
2. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.
1. Microphone In/Line In
jack
Connects to line-level sources ( or example, MP3 players) or microphones with a
3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.
2. Headphone/Line Out
jack
Connects to the Front Le t and Front Right inputs on powered analog speakers or
stereo headphones with a 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.
3. Connect LED button
Lights up green when wireless streaming is enabled and ready. Flashes green when
button is pressed to indicate pairing with a wireless receiver or other supported
device.
4. Power LED Lights up blue when Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is connected to your notebook and
turned on.
Page
3
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

3. Click the Uninstall/Change button.
I the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.
4. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Repair option.
When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive,
and click the OK button.
5. To repair an application, select the application check box.
6. Click the Yes button.
7. When prompted, restart your notebook.
For Windows XP
1. Click Start Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Add or Remove Programs icon.
3. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.
4. Click the Change/Remove button.
5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Repair option.
When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive,
and click the OK button.
6. To repair an application, select the application check box.
7. Click the Yes button.
8. When prompted, restart your notebook.
A ter you have completed the steps above, you can check your notebook to see i the reinstalled so tware
works properly.
Uninstalling Drivers and Applications
Before you begin, close all running audio applications. Applications that are still running during
uninstallation will not be removed.
For Windows Vista
1. Click Start Control Panel Uninstall a program.
2. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.
3. Click the Uninstall/Change button.
I the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.
4. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Remove All option.
5. Click the Yes button.
6. When prompted, restart your notebook.
For Windows XP
1. Click Start Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Add or Remove Programs icon.
3. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.
4. Click the Change/Remove button.
5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Remove All option.
6. Click the Yes button.
7. When prompted, restart your notebook.
A ter you have completed the steps above, you can install the original or updated device drivers and
applications or Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook. For instructions on installing the so tware, consult Installing
Drivers and Applications.
Installing/Uninstalling Selected Drivers and Applications
Page
4
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

For Windows Vista
1. Click Start Control Panel Uninstall a program.
2. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.
3. Click the Uninstall/Change button.
I the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.
4. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Add option to add new so tware components to
your existing installation, or the Remove option to remove previously installed so tware components
rom your system.
5. To install or uninstall an application, select the application check box.
6. Click the Next button.
When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive,
and click the OK button.
7. When prompted, restart your notebook.
For Windows XP
1. Click Start Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Add or Remove Programs icon.
3. Select the Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook entry.
4. Click the Change/Remove button.
5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Add option to add new so tware components to
your existing installation, or the Remove option to remove previously installed so tware components
rom your system.
6. To install or uninstall an application, select the application check box.
7. Click the Next button.
When prompted, insert the Installation and Applications CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive,
and click the OK button.
8. When prompted, restart your notebook.
Connecting Speakers and Headphones
You can connect speakers and headphones to Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook. Alternatively, you can also
play audio through your onboard speakers. To learn how to do so, consult the ollowing sections:
 Connecting Headphones and Headsets
 Connecting Analog Speaker Systems
 Enabling Audio Playback Through Onboard Notebook Speakers
To enjoy an optimal audio experience, use Entertainment Mode to select the correct speakers or
headphones setting and enable X-Fi CMSS-3D.
Notes
 Actual products may di er slightly rom those shown in this chapter.
 Select the correct speaker setup or headphone option in Entertainment Mode to get the best
experience.
 The cables shown in this chapter may be bundled with your peripheral or are available separately
rom www.creative.com.
 For more in ormation on the Creative peripherals mentioned in this chapter, visit
www.creative.com.
Connecting Headphones and Headsets
Do not listen to audio on your headphones or headset at high volumes for prolonged periods of
time as hearing loss might result.
For headphones:
Page
5
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

For headsets:
Notes
 Use an adapter i the plug comes in a di erent size.
Connecting Analog Speaker Systems
You can connect 2.1 analog speaker systems to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
Connectivity or Cable
Description
1. Headphone/Line Out jack
Connects to stereo headphones with a 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.
Jack, Connector or Cable
Description
1. Microphone In/Line In jack Connects to the 3.50mm (1/8-inch) microphone plug o your headset.
2. Headphone/Line Out jack Connects to the 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) headphone plug o your headset.
Page
6
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Enabling Audio Playback Through Onboard Notebook Speakers
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook supports playback through notebook speakers when headphones or
external speakers are not connected.
To enable playback through notebook speakers
1. Disconnect any earphones, headphones or speakers connected to Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
2. Launch Entertainment Mode console.
3. Click the Playback through Notebook Speakers button.
4. Select the Enable audio playback through Notebook Speakers check box.
Adjusting onboard speaker volume
Onboard speaker volume is determined by both your onboard audio device and Sound Blaster X-Fi
Notebook.
To set the playback volume:
For Windows Vista
1. Launch the Microso t Volume ixer panel.
2. Click the Device tab and select Speakers or your onboard audio device.
3. Adjust the Speakers slider to the desired level.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3, select Speakers or Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook, and adjust the Speakers
slider to the desired level.
For Window XP
Connectivity or Cable
1. Headphone/Line Out jack
2. 2 channel audio cable (available separately)
3. Audio Input jack
Page
7
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

1. Launch the Microso t Volume Control panel.
2. Click Options Properties.
3. Under ixer device, select your onboard audio device.
4. Under Adjust volume for, select the Playback option.
5. Click the OK button.
6. Adjust the Volume Control slider to the desired level.
7. Repeat steps 2 - 6, select Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook under ixer device, and adjust the
Volume Control slider to the desired level.
Notes
 Your onboard audio device must be enabled.
Using Your Sound Blaster X-Fi
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook works seamlessly with many external devices to give you endless
hours o listening, and music authoring pleasure. To learn more about these eatures and how to connect
additional devices, consult the ollowing sections:
 Watching DVDs
 Communicating with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
 Playing Games
 Streaming Music Wirelessly
 Playing/Recording Music
 Creating Music
Notes
 Actual products may di er slightly rom those shown in this chapter.
 The cables shown in this chapter may be bundled with your peripheral or are available separately
rom www.creative.com.
 For more in ormation on the Creative peripherals mentioned in this chapter, visit
www.creative.com.
Watching DVDs
You can watch DVDs on your notebook by using a so tware DVD player. X-Fi CMSS-3D upmixes the
audio output and enables you to enjoy amazing surround sound even over headphones or stereo
speakers. To get an optimal audio experience with X-Fi CMSS-3D, con igure your so tware DVD player or
multichannel output i possible. For more in ormation on con iguring your so tware DVD player, consult the
documentation o your player.
You can download the ollowing so tware and codecs:
 CyberLink PowerDVD player
 MPEG-2 decoder
 Dolby Digital decoding codec
 DTS decoding codec
Your product model enables you to upgrade PowerDVD, and download its codec, in the ollowing ways:
 Click Start Programs or All Programs Creative Get PowerDVD.
Notes
 Additional charges may be incurred i you choose to upgrade PowerDVD and/or download codecs.
Communicating with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
You can connect the supplied earset to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook to enjoy outstanding acoustic
per ormance or your Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) applications like Skype
®
, or instant messaging
applications like Yahoo!
®
Messenger.
Page
8
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

You can also use a headphones and microphone combination, or a headset with your audio device. For
instructions on how to connect them, consult Connecting Headphones and Headsets.
Playing Games
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is equipped with Creative's cutting edge audio technologies and
so tware to enhance the audio in your games. Playing games will be more exhilarating than ever be ore!
To learn more about the ollowing audio technologies, visit www.soundblaster.com.
EAX ADVANCED HD
Make your games come alive with EAX
®
ADVANCED HD
TM
and immerse yoursel in worlds that their
creators envisioned!
Hear multiple audio e ects being played simultaneously, and precise environment settings applied to them
to create a li e-like environment and heighten the sense o realism.
Each e ect is also accurately positioned in its 3D environment, allowing you to tell where it is coming rom
relative to your location, and you will be able to discern where your teammates and enemies are using
only these audio cues.
EAX ADVANCED HD is a weapon that will give you the competitive edge, especially in multiplayer games.
X-Fi C SS-3D
Why settle or stereo when you can enjoy the pleasures o surround sound? Let X-Fi CMSS
®
-3D upmix
your stereo audio content into multichannel content or playback over your stereo headphones, stereo or
multichannel speakers, and put yoursel in the center o the experience.
X-Fi Crystalizer
With X-Fi Crystalizer
TM
, your audio content is re-mastered in real-time to enhance the highs and lows to
give you a greater dynamic range. Hear the di erence and clarity in your audio content and enjoy the
subtleties that were missing be ore!
Creative ALchemy
Creative
ALchemy is a power ul tool that restores the audio or a DirectSound
®
3D game running on
Connectivity or Features
Description
1. Microphone In/Line In jack Connects to the 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) microphone plug o your earset.
2. Headphone/Line Out jack Connects to the 3.50mm (1/8-inch) earphone plug o your earset.
Page
9
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Windows Vista to its ormer glory - in ull surround sound with hardware accelerated audio mixing,
sampling rate conversion and EAX e ects.
Streaming usic Wirelessly
Your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is capable o streaming music wirelessly to supported devices. For
example, you can pair up one or more Creative wireless receivers, and control playback using the
Broadcast and Zone eatures in Entertainment Mode to enjoy music throughout your house.
The Broadcast eature enables you to stream music to any number o wireless receivers and/or supported
devices. It can be used without manual pairing.
The Zone eature enables you to stream music to a maximum o our selected wireless receivers and/or
supported devices. It requires manual pairing and each device is assigned to an available zone. You can
also rename the our zones.
For a list o supported devices, visit www.x-fi.com.
To enable wireless streaming
1. Launch Entertainment Mode console.
2. Click the Wireless usic Control button.
3. Select the Enable Wireless usic Control check box.
4. To play back music on all wireless receivers, select Broadcast.
OR
To play back music on selected receivers, select Zone.
5. I you wish to see the status o the Wireless Music Control settings when your notebook starts up,
or Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is inserted into your notebook, select the Show Wireless usic
Control status on startup check box.
Notes
 Do not enable wireless streaming while travelling on an airplane.
 The Entertainment Mode console automatically saves your wireless settings, you only need to
con igure it once.
Once you have enabled wireless streaming, select one of the following methods to pair Sound
Blaster X-Fi Notebook with a Creative wireless receiver.
Connectivity or
Features Description
1. Connect LED button
Lights up green when wireless streaming is enabled and ready. Flashes green when
button is pressed to indicate pairing with a wireless receiver or other supported
device.
2. Power LED Lights up blue when Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook is connected to your notebook and
turned on.
Page
10
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

For auto pairing
1. Turn on your wireless receiver, it will automatically search or a signal rom your audio device and
establish a connection.
For manual pairing
1. Press the Connect LED button on your audio device.
The LED lashes green.
2. Turn on your wireless receiver and press its Connect button, it will search or a signal rom your
audio device and establish a connection.
The LED stops lashing.
Notes
 While the LED is lashing, you have three minutes to pair a device. I you have not done so be ore
the time is up, the LED stops lashing and you will have to press the Connect LED button again.
 To erase all paired zones and reset settings to their actory de ault values, press and hold the
Connect LED button or ive seconds. It will lash twice and turn o or two seconds. You must also
reset your wireless receiver or supported device. For instructions on how to do so, consult the
documentation o the device.
 Other supported devices may have di erent ways to initiate pairing. For details, consult the
documentation o the device.
Playing/Recording usic
You can play music rom, and/or record music to external devices ( or example, MP3 players, Digital Audio
Tape players/recorders and MiniDisc players/recorders) by connecting them to your Sound Blaster X-Fi
Notebook.
Playing music from external devices:
Connecting your P3 player
Connectivity or Features Description
Page
11
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Connecting your DAT player
Connecting your D player
1. Microphone In/Line In jack Connects to the Headphone jack on your playback device.
2. 2 channel audio cable (available
separately) Connects the playback device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
3. Headphone jack Connects to the Microphone In/Line In jack on your Sound Blaster X-
Fi Notebook.
Connectivity or Features Description
1. Microphone In/Line In jack Connects to the Line Out jacks on your playback device.
2. 3.50mm (1/8-inch) stereo-to-RCA cable
(available separately)
Connects the playback device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi
Notebook.
3. Line Out jacks Connects to the Microphone In/Line In jack on your Sound
Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
Page
12
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Recording music to external devices:
Connecting your DAT recorder
Connectivity or Features Description
1. Microphone In/Line In jack Connects to the Headphone jack on your playback device.
2. 2 channel audio cable (available
separately) Connects the playback device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
3. Headphone jack Connects to the Microphone In/Line In jack on your Sound Blaster X-
Fi Notebook.
Connectivity or Features Description
1. Headphone/Line Out jack Connects to the Line In jacks on your recording device.
Page
13
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Connecting your D recorder
Creating usic
You can set up a home music studio using your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
Put together your own productions consisting o multiple music tracks rom a MIDI Synthesizer or an
electric guitar. Alternatively, connect your electric guitar using a Pre-amp Box to the Microphone In/Line In
jack (3.50 mm or 1/8-inch jack). Use a convertor i your Pre-amp Box comes with a larger connector, or
example, a 6.35 mm (1/4-inch) connector.
2. 3.50mm (1/8-inch) stereo-to-RCA cable
(available separately)
Connects the recording device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi
Notebook.
3. Line In jacks Connects to the Headphone/Line Out jack on your Sound
Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
Connectivity or Features Description
1. Headphone/Line Out jack Connects to the Line In jack on your recording device.
2. 2 channel audio cable (available
separately) Connects the recording device to your Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
3. Line In jack Connects to the Headphone/Line Out jack on your Sound Blaster X-
Fi Notebook.
Page
14
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

Notes
 Your audio device only supports dynamic and low-powered electret microphones.
Creative Software Suite
The ollowing so tware is designed or you to access the basic as well as the advanced eatures o your
audio device. We recommend that you amiliarize yoursel with their unctions in order to make ull use o
the rich eatures o your audio device.
For more in ormation on each application, re er to its online help. Depending on the application, you can
do this by clicking on the toolbar o the application, or selecting Help Topics rom the Help menu.
Creative Software Suite
 Audio Console
 Console Launcher
 Entertainment Mode
 Creative ALchemy
 Creative MediaSource
 Creative Sound Blaster Plugin or Windows Media Center Edition
 Volume Panel
Diagnostic and troubleshooting utilities
 Diagnostics
Notes
 The applications included with your audio device may di er rom those described here. Your audio
device may also come with third party applications.
 Some applications are available or certain operating systems only.
Entertainment ode
With Entertainment Mode, your audio device is optimized or movie soundtrack and music playback.
Connectivity or
Features Description
1. Microphone In/Line In
jack
Connects to line-level sources ( or example, MP3 players) or microphones with a
3.50 mm (1/8-inch) plug.
Page
15
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

In the Entertainment Mode console, you can:
Select speakers/headphones configuration
1. Click the Speakers button.
2. Select your Speaker System or Headphones rom the drop down list.
Enable environment effects with EAX
1. Click the EAX Effects button.
2. Select the Enable EAX Effects check box.
3. Select your desired environment e ect.
4. Drag the Amount slider right or le t to increase or decrease the amount o enhancement to apply.
Enhance playback with X-Fi C SS-3D
1. Click the X-Fi C SS-3D button.
2. Select the Enable X-Fi C SS-3D Headphone or Enable X-Fi C SS-3D Virtual check box.
3. Drag the Stereo Envelopment slider up or down to adjust the upmix balance between the ront and
surround speakers.
4. For the most compelling upmix e ect, drag the slider to its middle position, or click the arrow icon to
revert to the de ault setting.
Enhance playback with X-Fi Crystalizer
1. Click the X-Fi Crystalizer button.
2. Select the Enable X-Fi Crystalizer check box.
3. Drag the Amount slider right or le t to increase or decrease the amount o enhancement to apply.
Adjust EQ settings
1. Click the EQ button.
2. Select the Enable EQ check box.
3. Drag the Amount sliders up or down to increase or decrease the amount o enhancement to apply.
Alternatively, you can also select a preset rom the drop down list.
Adjust volume mixer settings
Page
16
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

1. Click the ixer button.
2. Drag the Amount sliders up or down to increase or decrease the volume o each component.
Adjust performance settings
1. Click the Performance button.
2. Select the desired bit-depth rom the drop down list.
3. Select the desired sampling rate rom the drop down list.
Playback audio through onboard speakers
1. Click the Playback through Notebook Speakers button.
2. Select the Enable audio playback through Notebook Speakers check box.
Control wireless music settings
1. Click the Wireless usic Control button.
2. Select the Enable Wireless usic Control check box.
3. Select Broadcast or Zone
4. Select the Show Wireless usic Control status on startup check box.
General Specifications
Versatile Audio Features
 Playback o up to 64 audio channels, each at an arbitrary sample rate
 24-bit Analog-to-Digital conversion o analog inputs at 48 kHz sampling rate
 16-bit Digital-to-Analog conversion o digital sources at 48 kHz to stereo output
 16-bit Digital-to-Analog conversion o stereo digital sources at 48 kHz to stereo output
 16-bit recording sampling rates: 8, 11.025, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz.
Notes
 Depending on your system con iguration, output sampling requency may only be available at 48
kHz.
X-Fi C SS-3D
 X-Fi CMSS-3D Headphone: Provides a multichannel playback experience over headphones or all
types o content
 X-Fi CMSS-3D Virtual: Provides a multichannel playback experience over two loudspeakers or all
types o content
Connectivity
Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook
Audio Inputs
 One 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) stereo jack or Analog Line In or Microphone In
Audio Outputs
 One 3.50 mm (1/8-inch) stereo jack or Analog Line Out or Headphones
Interfaces
 Wireless transmitter to connect with supported wireless devices.
Troubleshooting
Page
17
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm

This section provides solutions to problems you may encounter during installation or normal use. This
includes:
 Problems with Multiple Audio Devices
 Problems with Sound
 Problems with Sound and CD-ROMs
 Problems with Wireless Features
I you have a technical problem with this product, you can consult our sel help tool "Knowledge Base" or
online troubleshooting and solutions. Visit www.soundblaster.com/support.
Problems with ultiple Audio Devices
The onboard audio chipset seems to be in conflict with Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook.
Disable your notebook's onboard audio chipset. See your notebook's motherboard documentation or
details.
Problems with Sound
No sound from the headphones.
Check the following:
 The headphones are connected to the Headphone jack.
 In the Speakers tab o Audio Console, the Headphones option is selected in the
Speaker/Headphone Selection box.
OR
In the speakers and headphone selection o Entertainment Mode, the Headphones option is
selected.
No audio output when playing digital files such as .WAV, IDI files or AVI clips.
Check the following:
 The speakers' volume control knob, i any, is set at mid-range. Adjust the volume mixer settings in
Entertainment Mode, i necessary.
 The powered speakers or external ampli ier are connected to the card's Headphone jack.
 There is no hardware con lict between the card and a peripheral device.
 The speakers and headphone selection in Entertainment Mode corresponds to your speaker or
headphone con iguration.
Problems with Sound and CD-RO s
No audio output when playing audio CDs.
To solve this problem:
Enable digital CD playback ( or Windows XP only):
1. Click Start Settings Control Panel or Start Control Panel.
2. In the Control Panel dialog box, double-click the System icon.
3. In the System Properties dialog box, click the Hardware tab.
4. Click the Device anager button.
5. Double-click the DVD/CD-RO drives icon.
Your computer drives appear.
6. Right-click the disk drive icon. A menu appears.
7. Click Properties.
8. In the Digital CD Playback box o the next dialog box, click the Enable digital CD audio for this
CD-RO device check box to select it.
Notes
Page
18
of
19
How to use this manual
17/4/2008
file://C:\Users\Lee ong\AppData\Local\Temp\~hhC3B1.htm