Packard Bell dot s Series User manual

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User’s guide
Packard Bell dot s series

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Starting your computer 4
Wireless connection.......................................... 4
Registration....................................................... 5
Software installation ........................................ 6
Recovery ............................................................ 6
Having trouble? ................................................ 6
Computer Basics 8
Safety and comfort ........................................... 8
Safety precautions ..................................... 8
Health precautions .................................. 11
Getting to know your computer 14
Top view - display ........................................... 15
Top view - keyboard ....................................... 16
Special keys .............................................. 17
Rear view......................................................... 20
Left view.......................................................... 20
Right view ....................................................... 21
Base view......................................................... 23
Upgrading your computer 25
Expanding through options ........................... 25
Connectivity options................................ 25
Power supply 30
AC power adapter .......................................... 30
Battery pack .................................................... 31
Battery pack characteristics..................... 31
Installing or removing the battery
pack .......................................................... 33
Charging the battery............................... 34
Checking the battery level ...................... 34
Optimizing battery life........................... 34
Battery-low warning............................... 35
Software 37
Using Windows and your software............... 37
Welcome Center ..................................... 37
Internet security offer ............................ 38
Productivity software ............................. 38
Packard Bell Recovery Management ..... 38
Playing multimedia files ......................... 39
Playing DVD movies................................ 42
Social networks (optional) ..................... 44
Internet 49
Social Networks (optional) ..................... 49
First steps on the net...................................... 50
Protecting your computer ...................... 50
Choose an Internet Service Provider...... 50
Network connections.............................. 52
Surf the Net! ........................................... 55
Security .................................................... 58
Helpdesk 72
Safe computing .............................................. 72
Maintenance ........................................... 72
Updates ................................................... 79
Windows Remote Assistance.................. 81
Recovery 82
Packard Bell Recovery Management............. 82
Creating recovery discs ........................... 82
Recovering your system ................................. 86
Types of recovery .................................... 87

Table of contents - 3
Regulatory information 94
Environment 99
Software license 101
Index 104
V
isit registration.packardbell.com and discover the benefits of being a customer of
Packard Bell.
Remark: All images are for reference purposes only. Actual configuration may vary.
Copyright © 2011.
All Rights Reserved.
Packard Bell dot s series User Guide
Original Issue: 22 February 2011

4
STARTING YOUR COMPUTER
Thank you for purchasing this Packard Bell computer!
This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your
computer and assist in your computing experience.
After setting up and starting your computer, as shown in the setup
instructions, it will ask you questions that will help you connect to the
Internet. Your computer will then configure installed software.
WIRELESS CONNECTION
To connect to a wireless network, first check the wireless features of
your computer are on, and that the router or modem you want to
connect to is also correctly configured.
• If wireless is not on, press the communication key ( ) to open the
Launch Manager and make sure Wi-Fi is On.
• Your computer will detect and display any available networks, select
your network and enter the password, if required.
• After a short delay, your computer should connect to the Internet.
If your network is not detected, or your computer does not connect to
the Internet, please refer to your ISP or router’s documentation. After
your computer starts and you can use it, open Internet Explorer and
follow the instructions.

Starting your computer - 5
Alternatively, use a network cable to connect directly to a network
port on your router. Please refer to your ISP or router’s guide.
REGISTRATION
When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that
you register it. This gives you access to some useful benefits, such as:
• Faster service from our trained representatives.
• Membership in the Packard Bell community: receive promotions and
participate in customer surveys.
• The latest news from Packard Bell.
How to register
During the initial startup of your computer, a window will invite you
to register. Please fill in the information and click Next. The second
window you'll see contains optional fields that will help us to provide
you with a more personable customer service experience.
Another option
Another way to register your Packard Bell product is to visit our
website at registration.packardbell.com. Choose your country and
follow the simple instructions.
After registering, you will be sent a confirmation email with
important information that you should keep in a safe place.

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
Your computer will automatically install software and prepare your
computer for use. This may take some time, please do not turn off
your computer; wait until the installation has finished.
RECOVERY
You should create recovery discs as soon as you are able. The Packard
Bell Recovery Management program allow you to create recovery discs
and then to restore or reinstall applications and drivers provided by
Packard Bell. You will need a pack of writable DVDs.
See page 82 for more information about recovery.
HAVING TROUBLE?
Packard Bell provides several options to support your purchase.
Packard Bell support
Make sure you write down your computer serial number, date and
place of purchase and model name on the area provided in this guide;
save your proof of purchase. Before you call us, please write down any
error message that accompanies the problem, and have the computer
in front of you and switched on if possible. Having these items to
hand when contacting us will ensure better and quicker service.
6

Starting your computer - 7
Packard Bell website
Remember to visit www.packardbell.com - Check out the support
section for up-to-date information, help, drivers and downloads.
Warranty and contact information
You can find information about the warranty for your computer and
how to contact technical support in your computer’s Warranty.

8
COMPUTER BASICS
SAFETY AND COMFORT
Safety precautions
Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably
and to avoid health problems.
Computer environment
Make sure that the computer:
• Is used on a stable surface, stand or table. A fall can seriously
damage the computer.
• Is not used on a surface that vibrates, or used when taking part in
sport, exercise or other activities in a dynamic environment.
Vibration or movement can loosen fastenings, damage internal
components and even cause battery leakage.
• Is away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
• Is away from magnetic fields or any device generating static
electricity.
• Is kept at least 30 centimetres (one foot) away from a mobile phone.
• Is not in a dusty or damp environment.
• Is not used near water. Never spill liquids of any kind on or into your
computer.

Computer Basics - 9
• Is not placed on a carpet or any other surface that may have an
electrical charge.
Cables
Make sure that:
• Cables are not strained and that there is no risk of people walking
or tripping over them.
• Other devices do not crush the cables.
• The power cable is connected to the computer before connecting
the power cable to the AC power outlet.
• The power cable is unplugged from the power outlet before
disconnecting the power cable from the computer.
• Three-pin power cords are connected to a grounded power outlet.
• The power outlet is easily accessible and as close to the computer as
possible (do not overload it with too many adapters).
If your computer uses an external AC adapter:
• Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter. Allow the adapter
to cool properly during use by keeping it clear of objects.
• Only use the AC adapter that is supplied with your computer.
Although other adapters may look similar, using them can damage
your computer. If a replacement is required, use only parts certified
for use with your computer.

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Cleaning your computer
• Always unplug your computer from the power outlet before
cleaning it.
• Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, use a damp cloth instead.
• Never spray cleaning product directly on the screen.
• If you spill liquid on your computer, switch it off immediately,
unplug the AC adapter, remove the battery and make sure it is
completely dry before switching it on again. Wait overnight if
necessary.
Note: If your computer includes slots for memory cards or
expansion devices, plastic ’dummies’ may be 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.
Servicing your computer
Do not attempt to service your computer yourself, as opening or
removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other risks.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Unplug your computer 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,

Computer Basics - 11
• the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged
• the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a
need for service
• 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.
Health precautions
• The computer and accessories may contain small parts. Keep them
out of the reach of small children.
• If you work or play for hours at a time, then make sure you take
regular breaks. Look away from the computer's screen once in a
while. Do not use your computer if you are tired.
• Arrange your computer so that you can work in a natural and
relaxed position. Place items that you use frequently within easy
reach.
• Position your computer directly in front of you for increased safety
and comfort. Ensure that your keyboard and touchpad are at a
comfortable height. The screen should be about 45-70 cm (18-30
inches) from your eyes.
If you use your computer for long periods while sitting at a desk,
invest in an external keyboard for improved comfort.

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• To protect your hearing, when using speakers or headphones,
increase volume gradually until you can hear clearly and
comfortably; do not increase the volume level after your ears have
adjusted. Do not listen to high volumes for extended periods. Do
not increase the volume to block out noisy surroundings; decrease
the volume if you cannot hear people speaking near you.
• The computer’s underside, power adapter and the air from
ventilation slots may become hot during use. Avoid
continuous body contact and do not place the computer on
your lap while it is operating.
• Ensure that the computer’s ventilation slots and openings are never
obstructed or covered. Do not place the computer on a soft surface
(such as a carpet, chair or bed) that may block ventilation slots.
• Do not push objects of any kind into ventilation or case slots as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that may
result in a fire or electric shock.
• Some disorders of the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, legs and
back may be associated with, or aggravated by certain repetitive
actions. To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, type with
your wrists straight and your hands and wrists floating above the
keyboard. If you experience periods of pain, tingling, numbness or
other discomfort, please contact your doctor.
• We advise that parents monitor the use of games by their children.
If you or your child experience any of the following symptoms:
dizziness, blurred vision, eye or muscle twitches, loss of

Computer Basics - 13
consciousness, disorientation, any involuntary movement or
convulsion, IMMEDIATELY discontinue use and consult your doctor.
This may happen even if the person has no medical history of
epilepsy.

14
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR COMPUTER
After setting up your computer as illustrated in the setup instructions,
let us show you around your new Packard Bell computer.

Getting to know your computer - 15
TOP VIEW - DISPLAY
1
2
3
#Icon Item Description
1 Webcam Web camera for video communication.
2 Display screen Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD),
displays computer output.
3 Microphone Internal microphone for sound recording.

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TOP VIEW - KEYBOARD
#Icon Item Description
1Power button /
indicator
Turns the computer on and off. Indicates the
computer's power status.
2 Keyboard For entering data into your computer.
−Special keys are described on page 17.
3Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device which
functions like a computer mouse.
1
2
3
45

Getting to know your computer - 17
− Note: The front panel indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed.
Special keys
Your computer’s keyboard includes keys that activate special
functions. The function of each key is clearly marked with an icon.
4
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.
Communication
indicator
Indicates the computer’s wireless
connectivity device status.
5Click buttons (left
and right)
The left and right side of the button function
as left and right selection buttons.
Icon Function Description
Fn Hotkey for second
function
Activates a second function on certain keys.
E.g. press the Fn key to activate the F1 to F12 keys.
Social Networking
Opens the Social Networks application.
−If this application is not installed, the key will start
your instant messenging application.
#Icon Item Description

18
Help Opens the User's Guide for your computer.
Communication Enables/disables the computer’s communication
devices.
Display toggle Switches display output between the display screen,
external monitor (if connected) and both.
Screen blank Turns the display screen backlight off to save power.
Press any key to return.
Touchpad toggle Turns the internal touchpad on and off.
Speaker toggle Turns the speakers on and off.
Volume down Decreases the sound volume.
Volume up Increases the sound volume.
Brightness down Decreases the screen brightness.
Brightness up Increases the screen brightness.
Icon Function Description

Getting to know your computer - 19
Hotkeys
The computer uses hotkeys (key combinations) to access Num Lock,
function keys and navigation commands.
To activate hotkeys, press and hold the Fn key (bottom left) before
pressing the other key in the hotkey combination.
−Note: It is not necessary to press the Fn key to use the F1 to F12 function keys
when starting your computer or when using the BIOS.
To swap the hotkey and special function of the F1 to F12 keys, change the
function key setting in the BIOS (to open the BIOS press F2 when starting your
computer, then select the Main menu and change Function key behavior to
Function keys).
Hotkey Function Description
Fn + Special keys
(see page 17)
Function keys Activates the F1 to F12 keys.
Fn + Page Up Home Scrolls to the beginning of a document.
Fn + Page Down End Scrolls to the end of a document.

20
REAR VIEW
1
LEFT VIEW
21345
#Icon Item Description
1 Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack.
#Icon Item Description
1 DC-in jack Connects to your computer’s AC adapter.
2Ethernet (RJ-45)
port
Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/1000-based
network.
3External display
(VGA) port
Connects to a display device (e.g., external
monitor, LCD projector).