Acer EM820W Generic User Manual
Acer EM820W Generic User Manual

Acer EM820W Generic User Manual

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  • Page 1 Aspire Series Generic User Guide...
  • Page 2 No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronically, mechanically, by photocopy, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated. Model number: __________________________________...
  • Page 3: Safety Instructions

    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.
  • Page 4 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.
  • Page 5 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 •...
  • Page 6 • 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.
  • Page 7: Caution For Optical Drive Device

    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. Replacing the battery pack The notebook uses lithium batteries. Replace the battery with the same type as that which came bundled with your product.
  • Page 8: Radio Frequency Interference

    viii 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 Telephone line safety •...
  • Page 9: Medical Devices

    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.
  • Page 10: Potentially Explosive Environments

    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.
  • Page 11: Disposal Instructions

    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.
  • Page 12: Tips And Information For Comfortable Use

    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.
  • Page 13 xiii Eyes • Rest your eyes frequently. • Give your eyes regular breaks by looking away from the monitor and focusing on a distant point. • Blink frequently to keep your eyes from drying out. Display • Keep your display clean. •...
  • Page 14: First Things First

    First things first We would like to thank you for making an 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 poster helps you get started with setting up your computer.
  • Page 15: Taking Care Of Your Computer

    To turn the power off, do any of the following: • Use the Windows shutdown command: click Start then Click Shut Down. • Use the power button. You can also put the computer in sleep mode by pressing the sleep hotkey ...
  • Page 16: Taking Care Of Your Battery Pack

    Taking care of your battery pack Here are some ways to take care of your battery pack: • Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements. Turn the power off before removing or replacing batteries. • Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from children. •...
  • Page 17: Table Of Contents

    Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad\ Hotkeys Windows keys Using the system utilities Acer Bio-Protection Acer Backup Manager Acer eRecovery Management Creating a recovery backup (Optical drive) Creating a recovery backup (USB flash drive) Recovering your system (Optical drive) To recover your system...
  • Page 18 DMS (Digital Media Server) devices Display media content Send media content Search media Block and unblock devices Media sharing settings Power management Acer PowerSmart key Battery pack Battery pack characteristics Charging the battery Optimizing battery life Checking the battery level Battery-low warning...
  • Page 19 IEEE 1394 port High-Definition Multimedia Interface ExpressCard Installing memory Enjoying TV with Windows Media Center Choose your input type Watching TV using the optional DVB-T (digital TV) antenna (for selected models) To connect the digital antenna Watching TV with an external antenna or cable socket BIOS utility Boot sequence Enable disk-to-disk recovery...
  • Page 20: Touchpad

    Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means the cursor responds as you move your finger across the surface of the touchpad. The central location on the palmrest provides optimum comfort and support. Touchpad basics (with two buttons) The following items show you how to use the touchpad with two buttons.
  • Page 21 the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping harder will not increase the touchpad's responsiveness. Note: By default, vertical and horizontal scrolling is enabled on your touchpad. It can be disabled under Mouse settings in Windows Control Panel.
  • Page 22: Using The Keyboard

    Using the keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded numeric keypad*, separate cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys. Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad\ Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer. The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Description Caps Lock...
  • Page 23: Hotkeys

    Desired access Num Lock on Num Lock off Main keyboard keys Hold while typing Type the letters in a letters on embedded normal manner. keypad. Hotkeys The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer's controls like screen brightness and volume output. To activate hotkeys, press and hold the ...
  • Page 24 Hotkey Icon Function Description + < > Brightness up Increases the screen brightness. + < > Brightness Decreases the screen down brightness. + < > Volume up Increases the sound volume. + < > Volume down Decreases the sound volume.
  • Page 25: Windows Keys

    Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Windows Pressed alone it launches the Start menu. It can also be used with other keys for other functions: < >: Open or close the Start menu < >...
  • Page 26: Using The System Utilities

    Password Bank; and fast application/ website launching and login with Acer FingerLaunch. With Acer Bio-Protection Fingerprint Solution, you can now enjoy an extra layer of protection for your personal computer, as well as the convenience of accessing your daily tasks with a simple swipe of your finger! For more information, refer to the Acer Bio-Protection help files.
  • Page 27: Acer Backup Manager

    Acer Backup Manager Note: This feature is only available on certain models. Acer Backup Manager is a simple three-step process that allows you to create backup copies of your entire system or selected files and folders according to a schedule or as you need to.
  • Page 28 If you wish to change your settings at any time, run Acer Backup Manager from the Start menu and go through the steps outlined above.
  • Page 29: Acer Erecovery Management

    Reinstall Drivers or Applications This chapter will guide you through each process. To use the password protection feature of Acer eRecovery Management, you must first set the password. The password is set by launching Acer eRecovery Management and clicking Settings.
  • Page 30: Creating A Recovery Backup (Optical Drive)

    Throughout the process, you will be guided by onscreen instructions. Please read them carefully! Click Start > All Programs > Acer, then click Acer eRecovery Management. To create recovery discs for the hard drive’s entire original contents, including Windows and all factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create Factory Default Disc.
  • Page 31 The Create Factory Default Backup dialog box tells you the number of blank, recordable discs you will need to complete the recovery discs. Make sure that you have the required number of identical, blank discs ready before continuing. Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the Backup to list, then click Next.
  • Page 32: Creating A Recovery Backup (Usb Flash Drive)

    Important: This section only applies to computers without an optical drive. Click Start > All Programs > Acer, then click Acer eRecovery Management. To create recovery backup for the hard drive’s entire original contents, including Windows and all factory-loaded software and drivers, click Create Factory Default Backup.
  • Page 33 The Create Factory Default Backup dialog box opens. This dialog box tells you the estimated size of the backup file on your USB flash drive. Plug in the USB disk, then click Next. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. Unplug the USB flash drive and mark it with a permanent marker.
  • Page 34: Recovering Your System (Optical Drive)

    Recovering your system (Optical drive) If calling Acer support did not help fix your problem, you can use the Acer eRecovery Management program. This will restore your computer to the same state as when you purchased it, while giving you an option to retain all settings and personal data for later retrieval.
  • Page 35: Returning To A Previous System Condition

    - OR - If you are recovering from your driver and application recovery disc, insert it into the disc drive, then go to Step 3 after the Acer Application Recovery main menu opens. Click the Restore tab, then click Reinstall Drivers or Applications to display the Acer Application Recovery main menu.
  • Page 36: Returning Your System To Its Factory Condition

    Recovering from within Windows To reinstall Windows and all pre-installed software and drivers: Click Start > All Programs > Acer, then click Acer eRecovery Management. Click the Restore tab, then Restore Operating System to Factory Defaults. Click Yes, then Start. A dialog box will display information about the hard drive that the operating system will be recovered to.
  • Page 37 To reinstall Windows and all pre-installed software and drivers: Turn on your computer, then press + during startup to open Acer eRecovery Management. Click Restore Operating System to Factory Defaults. Warning: Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.
  • Page 38: Recovering Your System (Usb Flash Drive)

    Recovering your system (USB flash drive) If calling Acer support did not help fix your problem, you can use the Acer eRecovery Management program. This will restore your computer to the same state as when you purchased it, while giving you an option to retain all settings and personal data for later retrieval.
  • Page 39: Returning To A Previous System Condition

    Click Start > All Programs > Acer, then click Acer eRecovery Management. - OR - If you are recovering from your driver and application recovery backup, insert the USB flash drive into a USB port. Open the USB flash drive in Windows Explorer and double-click Recovery.
  • Page 40: Returning Your System To Its Factory Condition

    Recovering from within Windows To reinstall Windows and all pre-installed software and drivers: Click Start > All Programs > Acer, then click Acer eRecovery Management. Click the Restore tab, then Restore Operating System to Factory Defaults to open the Confirm Restoration dialog box.
  • Page 41 To reinstall Windows and all pre-installed software and drivers: Turn on your computer, then press + during startup to open Acer eRecovery Management. Click Restore Operating System to Factory Defaults. Warning: Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive.
  • Page 42: Acer Clear.fi

    Acer clear.fi Acer clear.fi is a home media database viewer and controller. It allows you to browse media contents on devices that are on the same subnet. Media content types When you launch Acer clear.fi, you can choose the media content type. There are three types defined: video, music, and photos.
  • Page 43: Send Media Content

    Search media If you want to search your media content, you need to choose the media type first; then enter a keyword in the search bar. Acer clear.fi will list the media content that matches the keyword. Block and unblock devices If you want to block a device, you can right-click it, and select Block from the menu.
  • Page 44: Power Management

    Note: This feature is only available on certain models. Acer PowerSmart uses the power-saving features of your computer's graphics sub-system to reduce overall power consumption. When you press the Acer PowerSmart key, the screen brightness is reduced and the graphics chip switched to a lower speed;...
  • Page 45: Battery Pack

    Battery pack The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between charges. Battery pack characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: • Employs current battery technology standards. • Delivers a battery-low warning. The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the AC adapter.
  • Page 46: Charging The Battery

    By following the battery conditioning process you condition your battery to accept the maximum possible charge. Failure to follow this procedure will prevent you from obtaining the maximum battery charge, and will also shorten the effective lifespan of the battery. In addition, the useful lifespan of the battery is adversely affected by the following usage patterns: •...
  • Page 47: Checking The Battery Level

    Checking the battery level The Windows power meter indicates the current battery level. Rest the cursor over the battery/power icon on the taskbar to see the battery's present charge level. Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the Windows power meter. Warning: Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears.
  • Page 48: Installing And Removing The Battery Pack

    Installing and removing the battery pack Note: Some models have an embedded battery. If the battery needs to be replaced, please contact an authorized service center. Important! Before removing the battery from the unit, connect the AC adapter if you want to continue using your computer. Otherwise, turn off the computer first.
  • Page 49: Taking Your Notebook Pc With You

    Taking your notebook PC with you This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer. Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: Save any open files. Remove any media, floppy disks or compact disks from the drive(s).
  • Page 50: What To Bring To Meetings

    but the Sleep indicator is on, the computer has entered Sleep mode. In both cases, press and release the power button to turn the computer back on. Note that the computer may enter Hibernation mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time. What to bring to meetings If your meeting is relatively short, you probably do not need to bring anything with you other than your computer.
  • Page 51: Setting Up A Home Office

    with you. • If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot carry the computer with you, leave the computer in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing the computer to excessive heat. • Changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation. Allow the computer to return to room temperature, and inspect the screen for condensation before turning on the computer.
  • Page 52: Traveling Internationally With The Computer

    • Avoid exposing floppy disks to hand-held metal detectors. Traveling internationally with the computer When you are moving from country to country. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you: •...
  • Page 53: Securing Your Computer

    Securing your computer Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer. Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and passwords. Using a computer security lock The notebook comes with a Kensington-compatible security slot for a security lock.
  • Page 54: Entering Passwords

    Entering passwords When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen. • When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you press to enter the BIOS utility at boot-up. • Type the Supervisor Password and press ...
  • Page 55: Expanding Through Options

    Expanding through options Your notebook PC offers you a complete mobile computing experience. Connectivity options Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section.
  • Page 56: Built-In Network Feature

    Built-in network feature The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based network. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the Ethernet (RJ-45) port on the chassis of the computer to a network jack or hub on your network.
  • Page 57: Universal Serial Bus (Usb)

    Universal Serial Bus (USB) The USB 2.0 port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect USB peripherals without taking up precious system resources.
  • Page 58: Ieee 1394 Port

    IEEE 1394 port Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer. The computer's IEEE 1394 port allows you to connect to an IEEE 1394- compatible device like a video camera or digital camera. See your video or digital camera's documentation for details.
  • Page 59: Expresscard

    Use the HDMI port on your computer to connect with high-end audio and video equipment. Single cable implementation allows tidy setup and fast connection. ExpressCard Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer. The ExpressCard is the newest version of the PC Card. It is a smaller and faster interface that further enhances the usability and expandability of your computer.
  • Page 60: Installing Memory

    Inserting an ExpressCard Insert the card into the slot and push gently until it clicks into position. EXPRESS CARD Ejecting an ExpressCard Before ejecting an ExpressCard: Exit the application using the card. Left-click the remove hardware icon on the taskbar and stop the card operation.
  • Page 61 Replace the memory cover and secure it with the screw. Reinstall the battery pack, and reconnect the AC adapter. Turn on the computer. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size. Please consult a qualified technician or contact your local Acer dealer.
  • Page 62: Enjoying Tv With Windows Media Center

    Enjoying TV with Windows Media Center Note: This feature is only available on certain models. Computers that include Windows Media Center Edition or InstantOn Arcade may be used to watch TV and to access video content (via an audio/video connection to an external device, such as a video camera). Choose your input type The avdio/video connection may be either a DVB-T digital antenna (for selected models) or a PAL/SECAM or NTSC connector.
  • Page 63: To Connect The Digital Antenna

    To connect the digital antenna Plug the antenna cable into the RF jack of your computer. Notebook Note: Do not twist or loop the antenna cable. Extend the antenna cable up to 20 cm to improve signal quality. Watching TV with an external antenna or cable socket You may use conventional TV cables (connected to an external antenna or cable socket) to watch TV on your computer.
  • Page 64 Connect the other end to your TV cable, using the cable converter if necessary. Important! Please ensure you use the correct cable system for your region before attempting to connect the antenna cable.
  • Page 65: Bios Utility

    BIOS utility The BIOS utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS. Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it. To activate the BIOS utility, press ...
  • Page 66: Using Software

    Using software Playing DVD movies Note: This feature is only available on certain models. When the DVD drive module is installed in the optical drive bay, you can play DVD movies on your computer. Eject the DVD. Important! When you launch the DVD player for the first time, the program asks you to enter the region code.
  • Page 67: Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently asked questions The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy solutions are provided for each one. I turned on the power, but the computer does not start or boot up. Look at the power indicator: •...
  • Page 68 out port on the computer, the internal speakers automatically turn off. I want to eject the optical drive tray without turning on the power. There is a mechanical eject hole on the optical drive. Simply insert the tip of a pen or paperclip into the hole and push to eject the tray.
  • Page 69 Note: To activate the BIOS utility, press during POST. To start the recovery process: Restart the system. While the Acer logo is showing, press + at the same time to enter the recovery process. Refer to the onscreen instructions to perform system recovery.
  • Page 70: Requesting Service

    Place your proof-of-purchase in the flap located inside the front cover of the ITW passport. If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide. Please visit www.acer.com.
  • Page 71: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting This chapter shows you how to deal with common system problems. Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open the computer yourself; contact your dealer or authorized service center for assistance.
  • Page 72 Error messages Corrective action Keyboard interface Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. error Memory size Press (during POST) to enter the BIOS utility, mismatch then press Exit in the BIOS utility to reboot. If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
  • Page 73: Regulations And Safety Notices

    Regulations and safety notices FCC statement This device has been 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 reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device 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.
  • Page 74: Modem Notices

    Compliant with Russian regulatory certification Modem notices Note: Information in this section may not apply to your computer. Notice for USA This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. Located on the modem is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC Registration Number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this equipment.
  • Page 75: Lcd Pixel Statement

    Notice for New Zealand The grant of a Telepermit for any item of terminal equipment indicates only that Telecom has accepted that the item complies with minimum conditions for connection to its network. It indicates no endorsement of the product by Telecom, nor does it provide any sort of warranty.
  • Page 76: General

    Bluetooth modules). Below information is for products with such devices. Declaration of Conformity for EU countries Hereby, Acer, declares that this computer is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. Wireless operation channels for different domains N.
  • Page 77: List Of National Codes

    Departments in which the use of the 2400 - 2483.5 MHz band is permitted with an EIRP of less than 100 mW indoors and less than 10 mW outdoors: 01 Ain Orientales 25 Doubs 59 Nord 71 Saone et Loire 02 Aisne 26 Drome 60 Oise...
  • Page 78: Canada - Low-Power License-Exempt Radio Communication Devices (Rss-210)

    Caution: To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, a separation distance of at least 20 cm (8 inches) must be maintained between the antenna for the integrated wireless LAN Mini PCI Card built in to the screen section and all persons. Note: The wireless Mini PCI adapter implements a transmission diversity function.
  • Page 79: Lcd Panel Ergonomic Specifications

    Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003, No. 4, et CNR-210, No 4 (Dec 2000) et No 5 (Nov 2001). "To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to provide maximum shielding.

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