User's Manual Part 1

ManualsBrandsQuanta Computer ManualsComputers & AccessoriesNotebook PC with Integrated Wireless LAN

Contents

1 Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Left side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Keyboard area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Identifying your model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Multi-function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Using the touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Connecting the modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Connecting to an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Broadband Internet connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

3Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

HelpSpot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

HelpSpot Videos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Online help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Gateway Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4 Windows Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

About the Windows environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Using the desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Using the Start menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Identifying Window items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Summary of content (116 pages)

PAGE 1
Contents 1 Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Left side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Back . . . . . . . . .
PAGE 2
Working with files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Viewing drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Creating folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Copying and moving files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Deleting files and folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PAGE 3
Listening to Internet radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Using advanced features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 7 Sending and Receiving Faxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Setting up your cover page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sending a fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PAGE 4
11 Upgrading Your Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 Adding PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130 Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132 Installing memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133 Replacing the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PAGE 5
Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the Scheduled Task Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cleaning your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PAGE 6
Tutoring and training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .232 Self-help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .232 Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .232 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PAGE 7
Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 Tips & Tricks 1 To access the contents of this guide while you are traveling, download an electronic copy from www.gateway.com/support/manlib/. www.gateway.
PAGE 8
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 Front LCD panel release latch Speaker Battery charge indicator Component Speaker Power indicator Icon Description LCD panel release latch Open the LCD panel by sliding the release latch to the right. Speakers Provide audio output. Speakers are disabled while headphones are connected. Battery charge indicator The LED shows the battery activity and status. ■ ■ ■ ■ LED LED LED LED green – battery is fully charged. orange – battery is charging.
PAGE 9
Left side Left side Modem jack Ethernet jack PC Card eject button Headphone jack PC Card slot Diskette drive Diskette drive eject button Microphone jack Component Icon Description Modem jack Plug a modem cable into this jack. For more information, see “Connecting the modem” on page 26. Ethernet jack Plug a 10/100 Ethernet network cable into this jack. For more information, see “Connecting to an Ethernet network” on page 27 and “Networking Your Notebook” on page 139.
PAGE 10
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 Right side Battery bay Component CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD/CD-RW drive Icon Drive indicator Manual eject hole Drive eject button Description Battery bay Insert the battery into this bay. For more information, see “Changing batteries” on page 103. CD, CD-RW, DVD, or combination DVD/CD-RW drive Insert CDs, CD-RWs, or DVDs into this drive. For more information, see “Using a CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive” on page 69.
PAGE 11
Back Back Kensington lock slot Power connector Component USB ports Icon Monitor port Parallel port Ventilation fan Description Kensington™ lock slot Secure your computer to an object by connecting a Kensington cable lock to this slot. Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector. USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a USB Iomega™ Zip™ drive, printer, scanner, or camera) into these ports. Monitor port Plug an analog VGA monitor into this port.
PAGE 12
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 Bottom Hard drive Memory bay Battery bay Battery latch Reset hole System label Ventilation fan Component Icon Description Hard drive Install the hard drive here. For more information, see “Replacing the hard drive” on page 137. Battery bay Insert the battery into this bay. For more information, see “Changing batteries” on page 103. Battery latch Slide to release the battery. System label Includes the product model number and serial number.
PAGE 13
Keyboard area Keyboard area Multi-function buttons Power button Status indicators Keyboard Touchpad Component Icon Description Power button Press to turn the power on or off. For more information on configuring the power button mode, see “Changing power settings” on page 107. Multi-function buttons Four multi-function buttons can be assigned to open applications. By default, these buttons are set to open your e-mail application, your Web browser, online help, and another program that you assign.
PAGE 14
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 Component Keyboard 8 Icon Description A full-sized 86-key keyboard. For more information, see “Using the keyboard” on page 18. www.gateway.
PAGE 15
Identifying your model Identifying your model The labels on the bottom of your computer contain information that identifies your notebook model and its features. Gateway Technical Support will need this information if you call for assistance. Important The label shown below is for informational purposes only. Label information varies by model. Insert Solo 1450 Label The following label indicates your computer contains a wireless communications device.
PAGE 16
Chapter 1: Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450 Accessories Gateway offers accessories that can help you make the most of using your notebook. Batteries and automobile/airplane power adapters If you run your notebook on battery power for extended periods, you may want to buy an additional battery so that you can swap batteries when necessary. See “Changing batteries” on page 103 for more information about using a second battery on your notebook.
PAGE 17
Getting Started 2 This chapter provides basic information about your Gateway notebook. Read this chapter to find out: ■ How to connect the AC adapter ■ How to start and turn off your notebook ■ How to use the keyboard ■ How to use the EZ Pad touchpad ■ How to connect the modem ■ How to connect to an Ethernet network ■ How to install peripheral devices www.gateway.
PAGE 18
Chapter 2: Getting Started Connecting the AC adapter You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or the notebook battery. The battery was shipped to you partially charged. You should use the AC adapter right away to fully charge the battery. Allow 24 hours for the battery to fully charge. Important If the battery is not fully charged before you use your notebook on battery power for the first time, the battery life may be much shorter than you expect.
PAGE 19
Connecting the AC adapter 2 Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power connector. 3 Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. The battery charging indicator turns on (see “Front” on page 2 for the location of the indicator). If the battery charging indicator does not turn on, disconnect the adapter from your notebook and repeat Step 2. 4 When you finish using your notebook for the first time, turn the notebook off and leave the notebook connected to AC power for at least 24 hours.
PAGE 20
Chapter 2: Getting Started Protecting from power source problems During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your computer can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your computer and peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents them from reaching your computer. Warning 14 High voltages can enter your computer through both the power cord and the modem connection.
PAGE 21
Starting your notebook Starting your notebook To start the notebook: 1 Open your notebook by sliding the latch on the front of your notebook to the right and lifting the LCD panel. 2 Press the power button located above the keyboard. Power button The power button is preset to On/Off mode. However, you can also set it to function in Standby/Resume mode. For instructions on changing the power button mode, see “Changing power settings” on page 107.
PAGE 22
Chapter 2: Getting Started Turning off your notebook To turn off your notebook: 1 Click Start, then click Turn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog box opens. 2 Click Turn Off. Windows shuts down and turns off your notebook. Important 16 If for some reason you cannot use the Turn Off Computer option in Windows to turn off your notebook, press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release it. www.gateway.
PAGE 23
Status indicators Status indicators Status indicators inform you when a drive is being used or when a button has been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used. Diskette drive Scroll lock Pad lock Hard drive Disc drive Caps lock Indicator Icon Caps Lock Description Caps Lock is turned on. Pad Lock Pad Lock is turned on. 1 Scroll Lock Scroll Lock is turned on. Diskette drive The standard 1.44 MB diskette drive is in use. Hard drive The hard drive is in use.
PAGE 24
Chapter 2: Getting Started Using the keyboard Your notebook features a full-size keyboard that functions the same as a desktop computer keyboard. Many of the keys have been assigned alternate functions, including shortcut keys for Windows, function keys for specific system operations, and the Pad Lock keys for the numeric keypad. You can attach an external keyboard to the notebook using a USB or PS/2 port. You do not need to shut down the notebook to connect a keyboard.
PAGE 25
Using the keyboard Key types Many different key types are located on the keyboard. Some keys perform specific actions when pressed by itself and another action when pressed in combination with another key. Key type Function keys Icon Description Press these keys labeled F1 to F12 to perform actions in programs. For example, pressing F1 may open help. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. Refer to the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.
PAGE 26
Chapter 2: Getting Started System key combinations When you press an FN key and a system key at the same time, the notebook performs the action identified by the colored text or icon on the key. Press and hold FN while pressing this system key... Too... Display the power status box in the upper left corner of your screen. The box shows the battery charge level, the BIOS version, and whether the AC adapter is being used. Press the key combination again to close this box.
PAGE 27
Using the keyboard Press and hold FN while pressing this system key... Too... Decrease volume. www.gateway.
PAGE 28
Chapter 2: Getting Started Multi-function buttons User-defined shortcut Help Internet E-mail Button Icon Press to... E-mail Open your e-mail program. Internet Open your Web browser. Help Open online help. User-defined shortcut Open the program you assign to this key. The multi-function buttons can be assigned different functions than those listed. For more information, see “Programming the multi-function buttons” on page 126. 22 www.gateway.
PAGE 29
Using the EZ Pad touchpad Using the EZ Pad touchpad The EZ Pad™ consists of a touchpad, two buttons, and a rocker switch. Left touchpad button Rocker switch Right touchpad Touchpad button When you move your finger on the touchpad, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction. www.gateway.
PAGE 30
Chapter 2: Getting Started You can use the EZ-Pad left and right buttons below the touchpad to select objects. You can assign a function to the rocker switch between the touchpad buttons. This function can be to scroll up or down, maximize or minimize the active window, or open and close the Start menu. For more information about programming the rocker switch, see “Changing the touchpad settings” on page 125. Using the touchpad To... Do this... Move the pointer on the screen.
PAGE 31
Using the EZ Pad touchpad To... Do this... Access a shortcut menu or find more information about an object on the screen. Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the right button once. This action is called right-clicking. Move an object on the screen. Position the pointer over the object. Press the left button and hold it down, then use the touchpad to move (drag) the object to the appropriate part of the screen. Release the button to drop the object where you want it. www.
PAGE 32
Chapter 2: Getting Started Connecting the modem Your notebook has a built-in 56K modem. Caution To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord. To connect the modem: 26 1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem jack side of the notebook. 2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack. The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines. 3 Start your notebook, then start your communications software. www.gateway.
PAGE 33
Connecting to an Ethernet network Connecting to an Ethernet network Your notebook has a network jack that you can use to connect it to a 10/100 Ethernet network. To connect to a network: 1 Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack left side of the notebook. 2 Insert the other end of the network cable into a network wall jack. Ask your network administrator to help you select the correct network jack. on the Your notebook is now physically connected to the network.
PAGE 34
Chapter 2: Getting Started Installing a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device Your computer has one or more of the following ports: Universal Serial Bus (USB) and parallel. These ports are used for connecting peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras to your computer. For more information about port locations, see “Checking Out Your Gateway Solo 1450” on page 1.
PAGE 35
Getting Help 3 This chapter tells you about additional information resources available to help you use your computer. It includes the following topics: ■ HelpSpot™ ■ Online help ■ Gateway Web site www.gateway.
PAGE 36
Chapter 3: Getting Help HelpSpot Your computer may include HelpSpot, an easily accessible collection of help information, troubleshooters, instructional videos, and automated support. Use HelpSpot to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and use the many features of your Gateway computer. HelpSpot also has an area called Contact Gateway that helps you find the right resource at Gateway to answer your questions or help solve your problems.
PAGE 37
HelpSpot You can find help information by clicking a link, performing a search, or browsing the index. To learn about using your Gateway computer, your mouse, and other tasks, click the Using your computer link on the HelpSpot main page. www.gateway.
PAGE 38
Chapter 3: Getting Help HelpSpot Videos HelpSpot contains several short videos to help introduce you to new concepts or show you how to perform various tasks. To play a HelpSpot video: ■ 32 To watch a video in HelpSpot, click Video Tutorials on the HelpSpot home page, then click a video title. The video plays. www.gateway.
PAGE 39
Online help Online help Many programs provide information online so you can research a topic or learn how to perform a task while you are using the program. Most online help information can be accessed by selecting a topic from a Help menu or by clicking a Help button. You can search for information by viewing the help contents, checking the index, searching for a topic or keyword, or browsing through the online help. www.gateway.
PAGE 40
Chapter 3: Getting Help Gateway Web site Gateway provides a variety of information on its Web site to help you use your computer. Visit the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com for: ■ Technical documentation and product manuals ■ Technical tips and support, including online chat services ■ Hardware drivers ■ Order status ■ Frequently asked questions (FAQs) For more information about connecting to the Internet, see “Learning about the Internet” on page 58. 34 www.gateway.
PAGE 41
4 Windows Basics Read this chapter to get basic information on how to: ■ Use the Windows desktop ■ Manage files and folders ■ Work with documents ■ Use shortcuts Help and Support For more information about Windows, click Start, then click Help and Support. www.gateway.
PAGE 42
Chapter 4: Windows Basics About the Windows environment After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop. The desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your personalized work space where you open programs and perform other tasks. Your desktop may be different from the example shown below, depending on how your computer is set up. 36 www.gateway.
PAGE 43
Using the desktop Using the desktop The desktop contains the taskbar, the Start button, and the Recycle Bin icon. Desktop elements Description The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the screen containing the Start button on the left and a clock on the right. Other buttons on the taskbar represent programs that are running. Click a program’s button on the taskbar to open the program’s window.
PAGE 44
Chapter 4: Windows Basics Using the Start menu You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for files and folders, and more using the Start menu. To use the Start menu: 1 Click the Start button on the lower left of the Windows desktop. The Start menu opens showing you the first level of menu items. 2 To see all programs and files in the Start menu, click All Programs.
PAGE 45
Identifying Window items Identifying Window items When you double-click the icon for a drive, folder, file, or program, a window opens on the desktop. This example shows the Local Disk (C:) window, which opens after double-clicking the Local Disk (C:) icon in the My Computer window. Title bar Menu bar Close Maximize Minimize www.gateway.
PAGE 46
Chapter 4: Windows Basics Every program window looks a little different because each has its own menus, icons, and controls. Most windows include these items: Window item Description The title bar is the horizontal bar at the top of a window that shows the window title. Clicking the minimize button reduces the active window to a button on the taskbar. Clicking the program button in the taskbar opens the window again. Clicking the maximize button expands the active window to fit the entire screen.
PAGE 47
Working with files and folders Working with files and folders You can organize your files and programs to suit your preferences much like you would store information in a file cabinet. You can store these files in folders and copy, move, and delete the information just as you would reorganize and throw away information in a file cabinet. Viewing drives Drives are like file cabinets because they hold files and folders. A computer almost always has more than one drive.
PAGE 48
Chapter 4: Windows Basics To see the files and folders on a drive: Double-click the drive icon. If you do not see the contents of a drive after you double-click its icon, click Show the contents of this drive. ■ Creating folders Folders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They can contain files and other folders. Files are much like paper documents—letters, spreadsheets, and pictures—that you keep on your computer. In fact, all information on a computer is stored in files.
PAGE 49
Working with files and folders 3 4 Click File, New, then click Folder. The new folder is created. Type a name for the folder, then press ENTER. The new folder name appears by the folder icon. Copying and moving files and folders The skills you need to copy and move files are called copying, cutting, and pasting. When you copy and paste a file or folder, you place a copy of the file or folder on the Windows clipboard, which temporarily stores it.
PAGE 50
Chapter 4: Windows Basics To move a file or folder to another folder: 44 1 Right-click (press the right mouse button) the file or folder that you want to move. A pop-up menu opens on the desktop. 2 3 4 5 Click Cut on the pop-up menu. Open the destination folder. With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click. Click Paste. The file or folder you moved appears in its new location and is removed from its old location. www.gateway.
PAGE 51
Working with files and folders Deleting files and folders When you throw away paper files and folders, you take them from the file cabinet and put them in a trash can. Eventually the trash can is emptied. In Windows, you throw away files and folders by first moving them to Windows trash can, called the Recycle Bin, where they remain until you decide to empty the bin. You can recover any file in the Recycle Bin as long as the bin has not been emptied.
PAGE 52
Chapter 4: Windows Basics To empty the Recycle Bin: Caution 46 Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently erases any files or folders in the bin. These files cannot be restored. 1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window opens. 2 Click File, then click Empty Recycle Bin. Windows asks you if you are sure that you want to empty the bin. 3 Click Yes. Windows permanently deletes all files in the Recycle Bin. www.gateway.
PAGE 53
Working with files and folders Browsing for files and folders A file or folder that you need is rarely right on top of your Windows desktop. It is usually on a drive inside a folder that may be inside yet another folder, and so on. Windows drives, folders, and files are organized in the same way as a real file cabinet in that they may have many levels (usually many more levels than a file cabinet, in fact).
PAGE 54
Chapter 4: Windows Basics Searching for files If you are looking for a particular file or folder or a set of files or folders that have characteristics in common, but you do not remember where they are stored on your hard drive, you can use the Search utility to search by: ■ Name or part of a name ■ Creation date ■ Modification date ■ File type ■ Text contained in the file ■ Time period in which it was created or modified You can also combine search criteria to refine searches.
PAGE 55
Searching for files Using the Search utility To find files and folders using the Search utility: 1 Click Start, then click Search. The Search Results window opens. Click All files and folders. 2 If you want to search by file or folder name, type in all or part of the file or folder name in the name box in the left pane of the window. ■ If you type all of the name, Search will list all files and folders of that name.
PAGE 56
Chapter 4: Windows Basics 3 Click Search. When the search is completed, Windows lists the files and folders whose names contain the text that you searched for. 4 Open a file, folder, or program by double-clicking the name in the list. Using advanced search options Search can find files meeting more criteria than file name. You can select options to narrow your search by selecting the search options that you want. You can search by the: 50 ■ Date the file was created or modified.
PAGE 57
Working with documents Working with documents Computer documents include word processing files, spreadsheet files, or other similar files. The basic methods of creating, saving, opening, and printing a document apply to most of these types of files. The following examples show how to create, save, open, and print a document using Microsoft® Word. Similar procedures apply to other programs such as Microsoft Excel, Microsoft WordPad, and Microsoft Publisher.
PAGE 58
Chapter 4: Windows Basics 3 Click General Templates. The Templates dialog box opens. 4 Click a tab for the type of document you want to create, click a document template style, then click OK. The document template opens. 5 Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at the top of the window to format the document. Saving a document After you create a document, you need to save it if you want to use it later.
PAGE 59
Working with documents 3 Type the new file name. 4 Click Save. File folder File name Opening a document To view, revise, or print an existing document, first you need to open it. Open the document in the program that it was created in. Help and Support For more information about opening a document in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support. To open a document in Microsoft Word: 1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word starts and a blank document opens.
PAGE 60
Chapter 4: Windows Basics 3 Find the folder you want to open in the Look in list. Look in list 4 Double-click the document file name. The document opens. Printing a document To print a document, you must have a printer connected to your computer or have access to a network printer. For more information about installing or using your printer, refer to the printer documentation. Help and Support For more information about printing a document in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support.
PAGE 61
Shortcuts 3 4 Click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens. Set the print options, then click OK. The document prints. Shortcuts The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and almost all programs that run in Windows. For more information on Windows shortcuts, see your Windows or program documentation. To... Do this... Copy a file, folder, text, or graphic Click the item, then press CTRL + C.
PAGE 62
Chapter 4: Windows Basics 56 www.gateway.
PAGE 63
5 Using the Internet This chapter provides information about the Internet and the World Wide Web, and tells you how to set up the America Online® Internet service so that you can send and receive e-mail and access other Internet resources. www.gateway.
PAGE 64
Chapter 5: Using the Internet Learning about the Internet The Internet is a worldwide network of computers linked together to provide information to people everywhere. The two most popular services on the Internet are e-mail and the World Wide Web. You can access this network by connecting your computer to a telephone, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), or cable line and signing up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
PAGE 65
Setting up an Internet account If you want to access the Internet you need: ■ A modem – a device that connects your computer to other computers or servers using a telephone, DSL, or cable line. ■ An Internet Service Provider – a company that provides access to the Internet through an ISP server. When you connect to an ISP, the ISP server lets you access the Internet and your e-mail messages. ■ A Web browser – a program that displays information from the World Wide Web.
PAGE 66
Chapter 5: Using the Internet Accessing your Internet account To connect to your America Online Internet account: 1 2 Click Start, All Programs, then click America Online. Complete the member name and password information, then click Connect. The computer dials the Internet account telephone number. If you are using a service other than America Online, check with your ISP for the correct procedure for connecting. After connecting, the Web browser window opens.
PAGE 67
Using the World Wide Web Using the World Wide Web The World Wide Web is a multimedia window to the Internet that gives you access to millions of information sources. Information on the Web comes to you on Web pages, which are electronic documents that you view using a Web page display program called a browser. You can use any of the commercially available Web browsers, like Microsoft Internet Explorer, which comes installed on your new computer.
PAGE 68
Chapter 5: Using the Internet Connecting to a Web site After you set up an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as America Online, you can access the many information sources on the World Wide Web. Help and Support For more information on connecting to a Web site in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support. To connect to a Web site: 1 Connect to your Internet account. After the computer connects, a default opening page or welcome screen opens.
PAGE 69
Using the World Wide Web Downloading files Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the Internet to your computer. To protect your computer against viruses, make sure that you scan the files you download. For more information, see “Protecting your computer from viruses” on page 187. Help and Support For more information on downloading files in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support.
PAGE 70
Chapter 5: Using the Internet Using e-mail E-mail (electronic mail) lets you send messages to anyone who has an Internet connection and e-mail address. E-mail is usually a free service of your Internet account. The Internet never closes, so you can send e-mail messages at any time. Your e-mail messages arrive at most e-mail addresses in minutes. An e-mail address consists of a user name, the @ symbol, and the Internet domain name of the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or company that “hosts” that user.
PAGE 71
Using e-mail Sending e-mail To send e-mail using America Online: 1 2 3 Connect to your America Online account. 4 5 6 Type the subject of your e-mail in the Subject box. Click Write. Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in the Send To box. Type the e-mail message. When finished, click Send Now. Your e-mail is sent over the Internet to the e-mail address you specified.
PAGE 72
Chapter 5: Using the Internet 66 www.gateway.
PAGE 73
Using Multimedia 6 This chapter provides information on using the multimedia capabilities of your notebook. Read this chapter to learn how to: ■ Use the diskette drive ■ Use a CD, CD-RW, DVD, or combination DVD/CD-RW drive ■ Create CDs ■ Adjust the volume ■ Play CDs and DVDs ■ Record and play audio files ■ Use Windows Media Player ■ Use MusicMatch www.gateway.
PAGE 74
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia Using diskettes The diskette drive uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called floppy disks). Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer. Warning Do not expose diskettes to water or magnetic fields. Exposure could damage the data on the diskette. Diskette slot Eject button To use a diskette: 1 2 3 68 Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up.
PAGE 75
Using a CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive Using a CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features, such as making recordings, listening to audio CDs, and watching DVD movies. Activity indicator Manual eject hole Eject button Inserting a CD, CD-RW, or DVD To insert a CD, CD-RW, or DVD: 1 Press the eject button on the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or combination DVD/CD-RW drive. After the tray opens slightly, pull the disc tray completely open.
PAGE 76
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia Creating CDs using your CD-RW or DVD/CD-RW drive Creating data CDs Use Roxio Easy CD Creator to create data CDs. Data CDs are ideal for backing up important files such as tax records, letters, MP3s, or photos. To create a data CD: 1 2 Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into your CD-RW drive. If a CD Drive dialog box opens, click Create a CD using Roxio Easy CD Creator, then click OK. The Project Selector window opens.
PAGE 77
Creating CDs using your CD-RW or DVD/CD-RW drive 3 Move your pointer over make a data CD, then click dataCD project. The Easy CD Creator window opens. Select Source Files Source Pane 4 Add Click the arrow button to open the Select Source Files list, then click the folder where your files are located. www.gateway.
PAGE 78
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia 5 Click the file you want to record (hold down the CTRL or SHIFT key when you click to select multiple files) in the Source pane, then click Add. record 6 After you have added all of your files, click record. The Record CD Setup window opens. Start Recording 7 72 Click Start Recording. www.gateway.
PAGE 79
Creating CDs using your CD-RW or DVD/CD-RW drive Creating music CDs Use Roxio Easy CD Creator to create music CDs from other music CDs or MP3 files. To create music CDs: 1 Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into your CD-RW drive. Tips & Tricks 2 Most car stereos read CD-R discs, but do not read CD-RW discs. If a CD Drive dialog box opens, click Create a CD using Roxio Easy CD Creator, then click OK. The Project Selector window opens.
PAGE 80
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia 3 Move your pointer over make a music CD, then click musicCD project. The Easy CD Creator window opens. Select Source Files Source pane 4 74 Add Click the arrow button to open the Select Source Files list, then click the folder where your files are located. www.gateway.
PAGE 81
Creating CDs using your CD-RW or DVD/CD-RW drive 5 Click the file you want to record (hold down the CTRL or SHIFT key when you click to select multiple files) in the Source pane, then click Add. Tips & Tricks You can add any combination of music tracks or MP3 files to a music CD project. You can add up to 99 tracks and files, or up to 650 MB (74-minute CD) or 700 MB (80-minute CD) of tracks and files to a music CD project. record www.gateway.
PAGE 82
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia 6 After you have added all of your tracks and files, click record. The Record CD Setup window opens. Start Recording 7 76 Click Start Recording. www.gateway.
PAGE 83
Adjusting the volume Adjusting the volume You can use the volume controls to adjust the overall volume and the volume of specific sound devices in your computer. Help and Support For more information about adjusting the volume in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support. To adjust the overall volume level using hardware controls: ■ On the keyboard, press the volume system key combination FN+ or F N+ to change the volume, or press the mute system key combination F N+ to turn off all sound.
PAGE 84
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia 3 Click the Volume tab. 4 Drag the Device Volume slider to change the volume or click to select the Mute check box, then click OK. To adjust specific volume levels: 78 1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices. 2 Click/Double-click the Adjust the system volume or Sounds and Audio Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties dialog box opens. www.
PAGE 85
Adjusting the volume 3 Click the Volume tab. 4 Click Advanced in the Device volume area. If the device you want to adjust does not appear in the window, click Options, Properties, the check box next to the audio device you want to appear, then click OK. 5 Drag the volume level and balance sliders for the device you want to adjust, then close the window. For more information about the volume controls, click Help in the window. 6 Click X in the top-right corner of the window to close it. www.
PAGE 86
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia Listening to CDs Use the Windows Media Player to listen to CDs. For more information about the using the Windows Media Player, click Help. You can also use MusicMatch to listen to CDs. See “Using MusicMatch” on page 85 for more information. To play a CD: 1 Insert a CD into the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or combination DVD/CD-RW drive. 2 If a message asks you to chose a CD player, click Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.
PAGE 87
Recording and playing audio Recording and playing audio Use the instructions below to make an audio recording by speaking into the microphone. Help and Support For more information about recording and playing audio in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support. To make an audio recording: 1 Plug a microphone into the Microphone jack on your computer. See “Left side” on page 3 for the location of the Microphone jack.
PAGE 88
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia To play an audio recording in Sound Recorder: 1 2 3 4 82 Open the Sound Recorder. Click File, then click Open. The Open dialog box opens. Click the file you want to play, then click Open. Play the file by clicking clicking (stop). (play), then stop playing the file by www.gateway.
PAGE 89
Recording and playing audio Playing audio and video files with the Windows Media Player The Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files, including WAV, MIDI, MP3, AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. For more information about using the Windows Media Player, click Help. To play a file using the Windows Media Player: 1 Click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Media Player. The Windows Media Player opens.
PAGE 90
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia Playing a DVD A Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies, several albums of music, or several gigabytes of data can fit on a single disc. If your computer has a DVD drive or combination DVD/CD-RW drive, you can play DVDs with the DVD Player program. For more information about playing DVDs, click Help in the DVD player program.
PAGE 91
Using MusicMatch Using MusicMatch Using MusicMatch™, you can: ■ Play music CDs ■ Create MP3 music files from your music CDs ■ Use your music files to build a music library ■ Enter music track information ■ Listen to Internet Radio For more information on using MusicMatch, see its online Help. Playing CDs You can use the MusicMatch program to play music CDs. To play a music CD: 1 Insert the music CD into the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or combination DVD/CD-RW drive on your computer.
PAGE 92
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia 2 Click Play Audio CD using MUSICMATCH Jukebox, click Always do the selected action, then click OK. MusicMatch opens, the CD begins playing, and the names of the music tracks appear in the playlist area. The next time you insert an audio CD, MusicMatch plays the CD automatically. Creating music files Using MusicMatch, you can copy the tracks from a music CD to your computer’s hard drive as MP3 files.
PAGE 93
Using MusicMatch 4 Click (REC), then follow the on-screen instructions. www.gateway.
PAGE 94
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia Editing track information After you add a CD track as an MP3 file to your music library, you can edit the track’s information. To edit track information: 88 1 2 In MusicMatch, click My Library. The library window opens. 3 4 Enter information such as track title, lead artist, album, and genre. In the library window, right-click the file, then click Edit Track Tag(s). The Edit Track Tag dialog box opens. Click OK.
PAGE 95
Using MusicMatch Building a music library Use MusicMatch to build a music library. You can organize your music tracks by categories, find a track quickly by using the sort features, and add information to a music file. You can add music tracks to your music library by: ■ Creating MP3 files – When you create MP3 files from the tracks on your music CD, MusicMatch automatically adds these files to your music library.
PAGE 96
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia Changing the music library display settings To change the music library display settings: 90 1 In MusicMatch, click Options, then click Settings. The Settings window opens. 2 Click the Music Library tab. 3 Click the categories that you want to display in the columns, then click OK. www.gateway.
PAGE 97
Using MusicMatch Listening to Internet radio Use the Radio feature in MusicMatch to listen to Internet Radio stations. To listen to an Internet radio station: 1 Connect to the Internet, then open MusicMatch. 2 Click Radio Stations. The Radio window opens. www.gateway.
PAGE 98
Chapter 6: Using Multimedia 3 To select one of the MusicMatch Internet radio stations, click one of the Popular Stations. You can also choose another Internet radio station by clicking Broadcast Stations, then clicking the appropriate category in the Station Selector. 4 Select a radio station, then click Play. MusicMatch connects to the station and plays the audio. Using advanced features You can also use MusicMatch to create your own music CDs and to download MP3 files to your portable MP3 player.
PAGE 99
Sending and Receiving Faxes 7 PhoneTools lets you send and receive faxes using the modem. Help and Support For more information about using the fax functions in Windows XP, click Start, then click Help and Support. Before you send your first fax, you need to set up your user information. Your fax cover sheets and fax headers will contain this information, which is required by law. www.gateway.
PAGE 100
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes Setting up your cover page To set up your fax cover page: 1 If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, All Programs, PhoneTools, then click PhoneTools. 2 3 Click Setup, then click General Setup. The General Setup dialog box opens. 4 Click the Customize tab, then type your personal information in the User boxes. Click the Fax tab, then enter your name and fax number in the Fax identifier text box. This identifier information is required by law.
PAGE 101
Setting up your cover page 6 If you want to change the logo that appears on the cover page, click Setup, then click Logo Management. The Logo Management dialog box opens. Import button 7 Clear button If you do not want the PhoneTools logo on your cover page, click the picture then click the clear button. - OR If you want to replace the PhoneTools logo with one of your own, click the import button then select a picture for the logo. The picture must be saved in a supported format (.BMP, .DGR, .GIF, .
PAGE 102
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes Sending a fax To send a fax: 96 1 If PhoneTools is not open, click Start, All Programs, PhoneTools, then click PhoneTools. 2 Click Send Fax. The Send Fax Wizard opens. www.gateway.
PAGE 103
Sending a fax 3 Enter the recipient’s name, company (if applicable), and fax number, then click Next. 4 5 Type the message text in the Message Text area. Select a cover page template from the Template list, then click Next. If you typed a message in the Message Text area, you must select a cover page. 6 If you want to attach a file, make sure the file is not open, then click (browse), click the file, then click Open. 7 8 Click Next, then click Finish. The Confirm Transmissions dialog box opens.
PAGE 104
Chapter 7: Sending and Receiving Faxes Faxing from programs To fax a document directly from most programs: 1 In the program with the document open, click File, then click Print. The Print dialog box opens. 2 Click the arrow button to open the Name list, click the printer CAPTURE FAX BVRP, then click OK. The Send Fax Wizard opens. 3 Complete the wizard as instructed in “Sending a fax” on page 96.
PAGE 105
Managing Power 8 While your notebook is running on battery power, you should manage power consumption to get the most use out of the battery. This chapter shows you how to: ■ Check and recharge the battery ■ Recalibrate the battery ■ Change batteries ■ Extend the life of the battery by conserving battery power and using alternate power sources ■ Change power-saving settings www.gateway.
PAGE 106
Chapter 8: Managing Power Monitoring the battery charge Closely monitor the battery charge. When the battery charge gets low, change the battery or connect to AC power immediately to prevent losing any unsaved work. Monitor the battery charge by: ■ Positioning the pointer over the power cord icon or battery icon in the taskbar. A battery status window opens. Move the pointer away from the icon to close the window.
PAGE 107
Recharging the battery Recharging the battery The battery recharges while it is installed and your notebook is connected to AC power. While the battery is recharging, the battery indicator turns orange and the battery icon in the taskbar has a lightning bolt . Important If the power cord or battery icon does not appear on the taskbar, click the show hidden icons button. www.gateway.
PAGE 108
Chapter 8: Managing Power Recalibrating the battery If your notebook unexpectedly goes into Standby mode while you are using it but the battery charge is not low, you may need to recalibrate your battery. You should also recalibrate the battery once a year to maintain the accuracy of the battery gauge. To recalibrate the battery: 1 2 Connect the AC adapter, then turn on your notebook. 3 4 5 6 Open the Power menu. As soon as it starts and you see a startup screen, press F2.
PAGE 109
Changing batteries Changing batteries If your notebook is plugged into an AC outlet, you can change the battery while the notebook is turned on. If your notebook is not plugged into an AC outlet, you must turn it off while changing the batteries. Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the Gateway Solo 1450 Li-Ion or Ni-MH battery. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
PAGE 110
Chapter 8: Managing Power 4 104 Slide a charged battery into the bay until it snaps into place. www.gateway.
PAGE 111
Extending battery life Extending battery life Conserving battery power While using the battery to power your notebook, conserve power by: ■ Removing PC Cards when you do not need them. Many PC Cards use a small amount of power while inserted, even if they are not being used. ■ Modifying the Power Management settings for maximum power savings. For more information, see “Changing power settings” on page 107. ■ Closing the LCD panel to turn off the display while you are not using your notebook.
PAGE 112
Chapter 8: Managing Power Changing power modes You can use the following power modes to lengthen the life of your notebook’s battery: ■ Standby - while your notebook is in Standby, it switches to a low power state where devices, such as the display and drives, turn off. ■ Hibernate - (also called save to disk) writes all current memory (RAM) information to the hard drive, then turns your notebook completely off.
PAGE 113
Changing power settings Changing power settings You can change the function of the power button, Standby key, and power-saving timers by changing power settings on your notebook. You can customize power settings from the Windows Control Panel by selecting power schemes, setting power alarms, adjusting advanced power settings, and activating Hibernate mode. Power schemes (groups of power settings) let you change power saving options such as when the display or hard drive is automatically turned off.
PAGE 114
Chapter 8: Managing Power Changing the power scheme To change the power scheme 1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and Maintenance. 2 Click/Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog box opens. 3 Click the arrow button to open the Power Scheme list, then click the power scheme you want.
PAGE 115
Changing power settings Changing alarm options To change the alarm options: 1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and Maintenance. 2 Click/Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog box opens. 3 Click the Alarms tab. 4 5 Adjust the alarm settings. Click OK. www.gateway.
PAGE 116
Chapter 8: Managing Power Changing advanced settings To change advanced power management settings: 110 1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel is in Category View, click Performance and Maintenance. 2 Click/Double-click the Power Options icon. The Power Options Properties dialog box opens. 3 Click the Advanced tab. 4 Click the arrow button to open a Power buttons list, then click the power setting mode you want to use. 5 Click OK. www.