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Acer TravelMate C100 series User Manual

Acer travelmate c100: users guide
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  • Page 1 TravelMate C100 series User’s guide...
  • Page 2 Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications. This company makes...

  • Page 3: First Things First

    This guide provides clear and concise information about the computer, so read it thoroughly. If you ever need to print out a copy, this User’s guide is also available in PDF (Portable Document Format). Follow these steps: Click on Start, Programs, TravelMate.

  • Page 4: Basic Care And Tips For Using Your Computer

    Insert the battery pack into the battery compartment, and press down until it clicks into place. Connect one end of the AC adapter to the power jack on the computer’s rear panel and the other end to a properly-grounded power outlet.
  • Page 5 Push the display cover two-way latch to open the display. Slide the power switch towards the rear of the computer (a) then release it (b) to turn on the power. The POST (power-on self-test) routine executes and Windows begins loading.

  • Page 6: Taking Care Of Your Computer

    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. Carefully route the power cord and any cables away from personal...

  • Page 7: Taking Care Of Your Battery Pack

    • 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.
  • Page 8 viii...

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    First things first Your guides Basic care and tips for using your computer 1 Getting to know your TravelMate A TravelMate tour Front view Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Using your computer in tablet mode Switching to tablet mode...
  • Page 10 Launch Manager BIOS Utility 3 Troubleshooting your computer Frequently-asked questions Troubleshooting tips Error messages Requesting service International Traveler’s Warranty (ITW) Before you call Appendix A Specifications Appendix B Notices Index...

  • Page 11: Getting To Know Your Travelmate

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate...
  • Page 12 Your TravelMate computer combines high- performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.

  • Page 13: A Travelmate Tour

    A TravelMate tour After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Just for Starters... poster, let us show you around your new TravelMate computer. Front view Item Description Two-way latch Use to latch the LCD screen in both normal mode and tablet mode.
  • Page 14 Inputs data into your computer. Enter button Use to confirm selection in tablet mode. This button can also be used to emulate the ESC button by first pressing the Fn button and then this button. This button can be configured by the user. See note on page 5.
  • Page 15 Windows taskbar. - or - Click on Start on the Windows taskbar and click on Control Panel to open the Control Panel dialog box. Click on Change to classic view, then double-click on the Change tablet and pen settings.

  • Page 16: Left View

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate Click on the Tablet Buttons tab on the Tablet and Pen Settings dialog box and change the buttons accordingly. Left view Item Description Screen support Supports the LCD screen, press and release before switching from PC mode to tablet mode and vice versa.

  • Page 17: Right View

    Right view Item Description EMR stylus Electromagnetic resonate (EMR) stylus that is used to input data in tablet mode. Use only an EMR-compatible stylus to input data on the screen. PC Card eject button Ejects the PC Card from the slot.

  • Page 18: Rear View

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate Item Description USB port 1 Connects to any Universal Serial Bus device (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). USB port 2 Connects to any Universal Serial Bus device (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). Screen support...

  • Page 19: Bottom View

    Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based network. Power jack Connects to an AC adapter. Bottom view Item Description Memory Houses the computer's main memory. compartment Battery lock/unlock Locks and unlocks the battery bay. latch Battery release latch Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack.
  • Page 20 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Item Description Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack. Hard disk bay Houses the computer's hard disk (secured by a screw). Hard disk anti-shock Protects your hard disk against accidental protection shock and vibration.

  • Page 21: Using Your Computer In Tablet Mode

    Switching to tablet mode To switch to table mode, follow the steps below: Push and slide the two-way latch in the direction as shown in the illustration below (a) and open the display screen (b).
  • Page 22 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Push and slide the two-way latch all the way as shown in the illustration above. Warning: When switching to tablet mode, make sure that you open the display at an angle between 85° to 95°. Doing...
  • Page 23 screen.
  • Page 24 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Press and release the screen support holding the display screen on both sides. Rotate the display screen 180 degrees clockwise as shown in the illustration. Make sure that the display screen is aligned with the screen supports that will hold it in place.

  • Page 25: Switching To Computer Mode

    Press the screen supports on both sides until they click into place (a); then close and latch the display. Remove the EMR stylus from its slot to begin pen-based input. Switching to computer mode To switch back to computer mode, reverse the steps of the “Switching...

  • Page 26: Features

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate Features Below is a brief summary of the computer’s many features: Performance • Mobile Intel® Pentium® III Processor-M with 512 KB level 2 cache featuring the new Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep™ technology • Memory expandable up to 256 MB •...
  • Page 27 Human-centric design and ergonomics • Sleek, smooth and stylish design • Acer Finetouch keyboard • Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device • Internet scroll key • Support pen input via EMR stylus Expansion • Type II CardBus PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) slot • Upgradeable memory...

  • Page 28: Indicators

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate Indicators The computer has seven easy-to-read status icons below the display screen. Icon Function Description Num Lock Lights when Num Lock is activated. Caps Lock Lights when Caps Lock is activated. Battery Charge Lights when the battery is being charged.
  • Page 29 The Power, Sleep and InviLink status icons are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed.

  • Page 30: Using The Keyboard

    The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys and twelve function keys. Special keys Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase.

  • Page 31: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys.

  • Page 32: Windows Keys

    The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS Utility. To activate hot keys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hot key combination.
  • Page 33 Fn-F6 Screen Blank Turns the display screen backlight off to save power. Press any key to return. Fn-F7 Touchpad Toggle Turns the internal touchpad on and off. Fn-F8 Speaker Toggle Turns the speakers on and off.
  • Page 34 The Euro symbol If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International or United Kingdom or if you have a keyboard with a European layout, you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard. Note for US keyboard users: The keyboard layout is set when you first set up Windows.

  • Page 35: Launch Keys

    Launch Keys Located at the top of the keyboard are four buttons. These buttons are called launch keys. They are designated as P1, P2, mail button and Web browser button. Note: To the left of these four launch keys is the InviLink button.
  • Page 36 Internet browser application Email checking function When you first start up your system, a Mail Checking dialog box will be displayed. In this dialog box, you have the option to launch the program at startup or not, set the time for mail checking, etc. If you already have an email account, you can fill in the Mail Properties in the dialog box.
  • Page 37 You can also access the Mail Checking dialog box by clicking on Start, Programs, Launch Manager, then click on E-Mail checking setting.

  • Page 38: Touchpad

    Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor. • Press the left (1) and right (3) buttons located on the edge of the touchpad to do selection and execution functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse.
  • Page 39 (up/down/ left/right) Note: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping harder will not increase the touchpad’s...

  • Page 40: Storage

    This computer supplies you the following media storage: • High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk • High-speed USB optical drive Hard disk The high-capacity hard disk is the answer to your storage needs. Optical drive The computer comes standard with a USB CD-ROM.

  • Page 41: Audio

    The computer comes with 16-bit high-fidelity PCI stereo audio, and includes a built-in sensitive microphone and stereo speaker. There are audio ports on the right panel of the computer. See “Right view” on page 7 for more information on connecting external audio devices.

  • Page 42: Power Management

    System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disk, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (called an inactivity timeout), the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy.

  • Page 43: Moving Around With Your Travelmate

    Moving around with your TravelMate This section gives you tips and hints on things 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 your work in progress.

  • Page 44: Taking The Computer Home

    What to bring to long meetings If your meeting will last longer than 3 hours or if your battery is not fully charged, you may want to bring the AC adapter with you to plug in your computer in the meeting room.

  • Page 45: What To Bring With You

    Minimize the effect of temperature changes by keeping the computer with you. • If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot bring the computer with you, leave the computer in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing the computer to excessive heat.

  • Page 46: Traveling With The Computer

    Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Make sure that the battery in the computer is charged. Airport security may require you to turn on your computer when bringing it into the gate area.
  • Page 47 Spare, fully-charged battery packs • Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer • Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to customs officials • International Traveler’s Warranty passport Special considerations Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer.

  • Page 48: Securing Your Computer

    Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or locked drawer handle. Insert the lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock. Some keyless models are also available. Using the Smart Card This software includes the following components: PlatinumPAS™,...
  • Page 49 IDs and passwords when surfing the Internet with Microsoft or Netscape web browsers. A card slot for your Smart Card is located on the right panel of the computer. This new security feature helps you boot up your computer with all your settings built right into your Smart Card.

  • Page 50: Registering Your Smart Card

    1 Getting to know your TravelMate To remove the Smart Card press the Smart Card eject button (a) and remove the Smart Card (b) as shown in the illustration below. For more details consult your Smart Card documentation. Registering your Smart Card...
  • Page 51 Open from the pop-up menu (or launch it from the PlatinumSecret program group). From the menu that appears, you can directly access three operations: PlatinumSecure Options, Smart Card Manager, and Change Password. PlatinumSecure Options Click on the PlatinumSecure Options button to open the Smart Card Options window.
  • Page 52 Smart Card is inserted. When Auto authenticate when Smart Card is in use is selected, no password is required. All you need to do is insert the Smart Card. Smart Card Manager The Multiple user support is implemented and managed in Smart Card Manager.

  • Page 53: Running Platinumkey

    With its unique Smart Card caching technology, you can greatly extend the limited card memory size to unlimited use by storing your private data in an encrypted file either on the Smart Card, or on the 360 Degree Web secure website server.

  • Page 54: Using Passwords

    PlatinumKey provides a list of all the logon pages that you have stored. To go directly to any site on the list either double-click it or select it and click the Go button. Also, you can click the View button to view the selected website information including Web Name, User Name, Password, and Web URL.

  • Page 55: Entering Passwords

    • Hard Disk Password protects your data by preventing unauthorized access to your hard disk. Even if the hard disk is removed from the computer and moved to another computer, it cannot be accessed without the Hard Disk Password. Important! Do not forget your Setup and Hard Disk Password! If you forget your password, please get in touch with your dealer or an authorized service center.

  • Page 56: Setting Passwords

    If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the following message or symbol appears. Slide and hold the power switch for four seconds to shut down the computer. Then turn on the computer again, and try again. If you fail to enter the Hard Disk Password, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center.

  • Page 57: Customizing Your Computer

    2 Customizing your computer...
  • Page 58 After learning the basics of your TravelMate computer, let’s get acquainted with the advanced features of your computer. In this chapter, you will learn how to add options, upgrade components for better performance, and customize your computer.

  • Page 59: Expanding Through Options

    Your TravelMate 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.

  • Page 60: Fast Infrared

    The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based (10/100 Mbps) network. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the network jack on the rear of the computer to a network jack or hub on your network. Fast infrared The computer’s fast infrared (FIR) port allows you to do wireless data...

  • Page 61: Universal Serial Bus

    To use FIR, position two IR-aware devices such that their IR ports are no more than one meter apart and offset no more than 15 degrees. When the two computers are in position, simply begin the data transfer as you normally would. See your file transfer software for details.
  • Page 62 2 Customizing your computer Connecting your optical drive Connect the AC adapter and the USB cable to the rear of the optical drive (a). Plug the other end of the USB cable to the computer (b). Connect the AC adapter to the power outlet (c).

  • Page 63: Pc Card Slots

    PC Card slots There is a type II CardBus PC Card slot found on the right side of the computer. This slot accepts credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer. These cards should have a PC Card logo on them.

  • Page 64: Upgrade Options

    2 Customizing your computer Press the slot eject button (a) to pop out the eject button; then press it again (a) to eject the card (b). Upgrade options Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance.
  • Page 65 Then turn the computer over to access its base. Remove the screw (a) from the memory cover; then lift up and remove the memory cover (b). Insert the memory module diagonally into the slot (a), then gently press it down (b) until it clicks into place.

  • Page 66: Notebook Manager

    Launch Manager Launch Manager allows you to set the four launch keys located above the keyboard. See “Launch Keys” on page 25 for the location of the launch key. You can access the Launch Manager by clicking on Start, Programs,...

  • Page 67: Bios Utility

    Manually turning on 802.11b wireless LAN does not change this default setting which is re-enabled when you restart your computer. You have to go to the BIOS Utility during POST to set it to “Always On”, so that when you turn on your computer, 802.11b wireless LAN will be on.
  • Page 68 2 Customizing your computer To activate the BIOS Utility, press F2 during the POST (power-on self- test) while the TravelMate logo is being displayed.

  • Page 69: Troubleshooting Your Computer

    3 Troubleshooting your computer...
  • Page 70 This chapter instructs you on 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 by yourself.

  • Page 71: Frequently-Asked Questions

    Look at the Power indicator (refer to “Indicators” on page 18): • If it is not lit, no power is being applied to the computer. Check the following: • If you are running on battery power, it may be low and unable to power the computer.
  • Page 72 Right-click on your Windows desktop and select Properties to bring up the Display Properties dialog box. Then click on the Settings tab to make sure the resolution is set to the appropriate resolution. Resolutions lower than the specified resolution are not full-screen on the computer or on an external monitor.
  • Page 73 • Make sure that both devices are IrDA-compliant. I want to set up my location to use the internal modem. To properly use your communications software (e.g., HyperTerminal), you need to set up your location: Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel.

  • Page 74: Troubleshooting Tips

    3 Troubleshooting your computer Troubleshooting tips This notebook computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems. • If the system reports an error message or an error symptom occurs, see “Error messages” on page 65.

  • Page 75: Error Messages

    Error messages If you receive an error message, note the message and take the corrective action. The following table lists the error messages in alphabetical order together with the recommended course of action. Error Messages Corrective Action CMOS Battery Bad Contact your dealer or an authorized service center.
  • Page 76 Video RAM BIOS Bad Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance. Some problems may be solved using the BIOS Utility.

  • Page 77: Requesting Service

    Please have the following information available when you call Acer for online service, and please be at your computer when you call. With your support, we can reduce the amount of time a call takes and help solve your problems efficiently.
  • Page 78 3 Troubleshooting your computer If there are error messages or beeps reported by your computer, write them down as they appear on the screen (or the number and sequence in the case of beeps). If you haven’t registered your notebook computer, you will be required to register during your first call to Acer.

  • Page 79: Appendix A Specifications

    Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 80 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
  • Page 81 Microprocessor • Mobile Intel® Pentium® III Processor-M with 512 KB level 2 cache featuring the new Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep™ technology Memory • Main memory expandable to 256 MB support 64-bit memory bus • Dual 144-pin soDIMM socket supporting PC-133 SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) •...
  • Page 82 • Two USB ports • One IEEE 1394 port Weight and dimensions • 3.2 lbs (1.40 kg) • 251 (W) x 208 (D) x 25.4/29.4 (H)mm Environment • Temperature • Operating: 10°C ~ 35°C • Non-operating: -20°C ~ 60°C •...
  • Page 83 Power • Battery pack • 24 WattHour Li-Ion main battery pack • Smart battery management technology • 1.5-hour rapid charge/2.5-hour charge-in-use • AC adapter • 60-Watt • Auto sensing 100~240Vac, 50~60Hz Options • 128-MB memory upgrade module • Higher-capacity hard disk drive •...
  • Page 84 Appendix A Specifications...

  • Page 85: Appendix B Notices

    Appendix B Notices...
  • Page 86 This appendix lists the general notices of your computer.

  • Page 87: Fcc Notice

    FCC notice 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.

  • Page 88: Modem Notices

    If possible, they will notify you in advance. But, if advance notice is not practical, you will be notified as soon as possible. You will also be informed of your right to file a complaint with the FCC.

  • Page 89: Important Safety Instructions

    Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

  • Page 90: Regulatory Information

    Replace the battery with the same type as the product's battery we recommend. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep them away from children and dispose of used batteries promptly.
  • Page 91 This equipment 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.
  • Page 92 Appendix B Notices Responsible Party: Acer America Corporation, 2641 Orchard Parkway, San Jose, CA 95134 Telephone No:1-408-432-6200...
  • Page 94 Appendix B Notices...

  • Page 95: Laser Compliance Statement

    Laser compliance statement The CD drive used with this computer is a laser product. The CD drive’s classification label (shown below) is located on the drive. CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

  • Page 96: Year 2000 Compliance Statement

    The TravelMate C100 series notebook computer carries the "Hardware NSTL Tested Year 2000 Compliant" logo, which certifies that this model has been tested by NSTL using the YMark2000 test, and has been found to meet NSTL's standards for Year 2000 hardware compliance...
  • Page 97 Australian approved mains cord set shall be used with the equipment.
  • Page 98 Appendix B Notices...

  • Page 99: Index

    Windows keys security setting up a home office taking home LEDs traveling internationally traveling on local trips troubleshooting media access turning off on indicator Wireless Communication indica-...
  • Page 100 28– 29 setting location for modem use travel international flights local trips troubleshooting Rotating the display in tablet mode tips universal serial bus (USB) safety Using computer in tablet mode CD-ROM...
  • Page 101 International Traveler’s Warran- rear right Windows keys volume...

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