-1 Aspire Desktop Computer User’s Manual
- © 2013. All Rights Reserved. Aspire Desktop Computer Covers: Tower models This revision: October 2013 Sign up for an Acer ID and enable Acer Remote Files Open the Acer Portal from the Start screen to sign up for an Acer ID or sign in if you already have an Acer ID.
Table of contents - 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS First things first 5 Your guides ............................................. 5 Basic care and tips for using your computer.................................................. 5 Turning your computer on and off............... 5 Taking care of your computer ..................... 6 Power cord information ............................... 6 Cleaning and servicing................................ 7 Recovery 8 Creating a recovery backup.....................
- Getting started...
First things first - 5 FIRST THINGS FIRST We would like to thank you for making this Acer desktop computer your choice for meeting your computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer desktop computer, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup Guide helps you get started with setting up your computer. The Quick Guide introduces you to the basic features and functions of your new computer.
- First things first You can also put the computer in sleep mode by pressing the sleep hotkey + . Note If you cannot power off the computer normally, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to shut down the computer. If you turn off the computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two seconds before powering up. Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. • Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight.
First things first - 7 Cleaning and servicing When cleaning the computer, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the computer. 2. Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. If either of the following occurs: • The computer has been dropped or the body has been damaged; • The computer does not operate normally See Frequently asked questions on page 78.
- Recovery RECOVERY If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently asked questions (see Frequently asked questions on page 78) do not help, you can 'recover' your computer - i.e. return it to an earlier state. This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Acer provides Acer Recovery Management, which allows you to create a recovery backup, a drivers and applications backup, and to start recovery options, either using Windows tools, or the recovery backup.
Recovery - 9 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Create Factory Default Backup. The Recovery Drive window opens. Make sure Copy contents from the recovery partition to the recovery drive is selected. This provides the most complete and safest recovery backup. 3. Plug in the USB drive then click Next.
- Recovery • Since the recovery backup requires at least 16 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 32 GB or larger. 4. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 5. Follow the process until it completes. 6. After creating the recovery backup, you can choose to delete the recovery information on your computer.
Recovery - 11 may use either a USB storage drive or, if your computer features a DVD recorder, one or more blank recordable DVDs. 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Create Drivers and Applications Backup. Plug in the USB drive or insert a blank DVD into the optical drive, then click Next. • If you are using a USB drive, make sure your USB drive has enough capacity before continuing.
- Recovery with a permanent marker. If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc when prompted, then click OK. Continue until the process is complete. • If you are using a USB drive, unplug the drive and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on each backup, such as 'Drivers and Applications Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember. Recovering your system To recover your system: 1. Perform minor fixes.
Recovery - 13 Reinstalling drivers and applications As a troubleshooting step, you may need to reinstall the applications and device drivers that came pre-installed on your computer from the factory. You can reinstall using either your hard drive or the backup you have created. • Other applications - If you need to reinstall software that did not come pre-installed on your computer, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.
- Recovery 3. You should see the Contents section of the Acer Resource Center. Images for reference only. 4. Click the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall. If you are reinstalling from a Drivers and Applications Backup on a DVD or USB drive: 1. Insert the Drivers and Applications Backup into the disc drive or connect it to a free USB port.
Recovery - 15 2. You should see the Contents section of the Acer Resource Center. Images for reference only. 3. Click the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall. Returning to an earlier system snapshot Microsoft System Restore periodically takes a 'snapshot' of your system settings and saves them as restore points.
- Recovery 4. Click the latest restore point (at a time when your system worked correctly), click Next, then Finish. 5. A confirmation window appears; click Yes. Your system is restored using the restore point you specified. This process may take several minutes, and may restart your computer. Returning your system to its factory condition If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall everything to return your system to its factory condition.
Recovery - 17 the Windows Store). See Customized Restore with Acer Recovery Management on page 19. Restore Factory Settings with Acer Recovery Management 1. Click Restore Factory Settings. Important ’Restore Factory Settings’ will erase all files on your hard drive. 2. The Reset your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 3. Click Next, then choose how to erase your files: a. Just remove my files quickly erases all files before restoring your computer and takes about 30 minutes. b.
- Recovery 5. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. 6. After the recovery has finished, you can start using your computer by repeating the first-start process. Recovering from the hard drive during startup 1. Turn on your computer and press + during startup. A screen appears asking you to choose the keyboard layout. 2. Several options are now presented. Click Troubleshoot. 3.
Recovery - 19 Customized Restore with Acer Recovery Management 1. Click Customized Restore (Retain User Data). 2. The Refresh your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 3. Click Next, then Refresh. 4. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. This process takes about 30 minutes. Recovering from a recovery backup To recover from a recovery backup on a USB drive: 1. Find your recovery backup. 2.
- Recovery b. Use the left or right arrow keys to select the Main menu. c. Press the down key until F12 Boot Menu is selected, press to change this setting to Enabled. d. Use the left or right arrow keys to select the Exit menu. e. Depending on the type of BIOS your computer uses, select Save Changes and Exit or Exit Saving Changes and press Enter. Select OK or Yes to confirm. f. Your computer will restart. 5. During startup, press to open the boot menu.
Recovery - 21 Reset your PC from the recovery backup Important Reset your PC will erase all files on your hard drive. 1. The Reset your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 2. Click Next. 3. Select the operating system to recover (normally only one option is available). 4. Choose to keep any changes to the hard drive: a. If you have deleted the recovery partition or otherwise changed the partitions on the hard drive and want to keep these changes, select No. b.
- Recovery Refresh your PC from the recovery backup 1. The Refresh your PC window opens. 2. Click Next. 3. Select the operating system to recover (normally only one option is available). 4. Click Refresh. 5. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. This process takes about 30 minutes.
Connecting to the Internet - 23 CONNECTING T O TH E INTERNET Note Information in this section may not apply to your computer. This chapter includes basic information on types of connections, and getting connected to the Internet. For detailed information, please refer to Network connections on page 53. Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature The built-in network feature makes it easy for you to connect your computer to the Internet using a cable.
- Keeping your computer and data safe...
BIOS utility - 25 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 normally need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it. To activate the BIOS utility, press during the POST while the computer logo is being displayed.
- Securing your computer SECURING Y O U R C O MP U TE R Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer. Using passwords Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these passwords creates several different levels of protection for your computer and data: • Supervisor Password prevents unauthorized entry into the BIOS utility. Once set, you must enter this password to gain access to the BIOS utility.
Securing your computer - 27 • Type the User Password and press to use the computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press . Important You have three chances to enter a password. If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the system halts. Press and hold the power button for four seconds to shut down the computer. Then turn on the computer again, and try again.
- Power management POWER MANAGEMENT This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, hard disk, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time, the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy.
Power management - 29 5. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.
- Ports and connectors...
Ports and connectors - 31 PORTS AND CONNECTORS The tables below indicate what the different icons represent. Note The ports and connectors listed below may not be available on all models.
- Ports and connectors Icon Item Icon Item DC-in jack DVI DVI port Information on USB 3.0 • • • • USB 3.0 compatible ports are blue. Compatible with USB 3.0 and earlier devices. For optimal performance, use USB 3.0-certified devices. Defined by the USB 3.0 specification (SuperSpeed USB). Rear panel audio ports The table below indicates the functions of the audio jacks on the rear panel (if available). Icon color Headset Blue Stereo Quadrophonic 5.
Memory card reader - 33 MEMORY CARD READER Connectivity options Your computer has a card reader and other ports/jacks that allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section. Memory card reader Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones. Inserting a memory card 1.
- Memory card reader (2 TB). Your computer provides an SDHC or SDXC compatible card reader. Note SDXC memory cards can only be used in an SDXC-compatible reader; SD and SDHC cards can be used in either type. Removing a card from a memory card reader 1. Click on Show hidden icons arrow in the Notification Area (next to the clock). 2. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon. 3. Click on Eject SD Card (or the name of the device). 4. Wait until a Safe to Remove Hardware message is displayed. 5.
Video and audio connectors - 35 VIDEO AND AUDIO CONNECTORS Connect to a monitor with a VGA or DVI port (the type of connection supported depends on your computer’s configuration). The appropriate cable is usually included with the monitor. Follow these steps to connect an monitor to your computer: 1. Check that the computer is powered off and the monitor power switch is turned off. 2. Attach the video cable to the monitor port on the computer. Secure the cable connection with the screws provided. 3.
- HDMI HDMI HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a high-quality, digital audio/video interface. HDMI allows you to connect any compatible digital audio/video source, such as your computer, a set-top box, DVD player, and audio/video receiver to any compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV) with a single cable. The single cable keeps everything neat and tidy while ensuring easy connection and the best audio and visual quality.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) - 37 UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) The USB port is a high-speed port which allows you to connect USB peripherals, such as a mouse, an external keyboard, additional storage (external hard disks), or any other compatible device. Note Two USB standards are currently available on Acer computers: USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) and USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.0 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.
- Got a question? In this section you will find: • • • • • Frequently asked questions Tips for using Windows 8.
Frequently asked questions - 39 F R E Q U E N TL Y 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: • If it is not lit, no power is being supplied to the computer. Check the following: • If you are using on the battery, it may be low and unable to power the computer.
- Frequently asked questions • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and deselect the Mute all option. • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. You can also use the volume control buttons to adjust the volume. • If headphones, earphones or external speakers are connected to the headphone jack on the computer, the internal speakers automatically turn off.
Frequently asked questions - 41 I want to restore my computer to its original settings. Note If your system is the multilingual version, the operating system and language you choose when you first turn on the system will be the only option for future recovery operations. This recovery process helps you restore the C: drive with the original software content that is installed when you purchased your computer. Warning Your C: drive will be reformatted and all data will be erased.
- Frequently asked questions 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. Before you call 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.
F r e qu e nt ly a sk Frequently asked questions - 43 Tips and hints for using Windows 8.1 We know this is a new operating system that will take some getting used to, so we've created a few pointers to help you get started. How do I get to Start? Press the Windows key; click the Start button on the desktop taskbar; or move your cursor into the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click the Start charm. Where’s the Start button? The Start button will appear in the desktop taskbar.
- Frequently asked questions Can I boot directly to the desktop? Yes, you can, just follow these steps: 1. Go to the desktop. 2. Right-click the taskbar and select Properties from the menu that opens. 3. From the Navigation tab, check Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in. How do I jump between apps? Move your cursor to the upper left-hand corner of the screen and click the thumbnail of the app that you want to jump to.
Frequently asked questions - 45 Can I personalize the Lock screen? You can personalize the lock screen with a different image, to run a slideshow of images, or to show you quick status and notifications to suit your personal needs. To change the background, move your cursor to the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click Settings > Change PC settings > PC & devices > Lock screen.
- Frequently asked questions How do I set the alarm? Your computer can act as an alarm clock. Start typing ’Alarms’ to search for the Alarms app. 1. Set the time using the sliders on the left-hand side of the screen. 2. Select AM or PM. 3. Choose which days the alarm should go off. 4. Select the notification. 5. Save the alarm by clicking the Save icon in the upper right-hand corner. Delete Save Hour Minutes Note The alarm will only sound if your computer is awake at the set time.
Frequently asked questions - 47 Can I make tiles bigger or smaller? Right-click anywhere on Start to open the Customize menu, click the tile(s) you wish to resize and click Resize. Select a size from the menu that appears. How do I close an app? Move your cursor to the top of the screen. You will see it change to a hand, click and drag the hand downwards past the half-way point of the screen.
- Frequently asked questions How do I install apps? You can download Windows Store apps from Store. You will need to have a Microsoft ID to purchase and download apps from Store. I can't find apps like Notepad and Paint! Where are they? Move your cursor to the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click Search, type the name of the app you would like to open using the pop-up keyboard. Alternatively, open All apps and scroll to ’Windows Accessories’ to see the list of legacy programs.
Frequently asked questions - 49 Microsoft account, you'll connect your PC to the people, files, and devices you care about. Do I need one? You do not need a Microsoft ID to use Windows 8.1, but it makes life easier because you can sync data across different machines you sign in to using a Microsoft ID. How do I get one? If you've already installed Windows 8.
F R E Q U E N T LY 50 - Frequently asked questions 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. Troubleshooting tips This computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems.
Frequently asked questions - 51 Error messages Keyboard error or no keyboard connected Keyboard interface error Memory size mismatch Corrective action Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Press (during POST) to enter the BIOS utility, 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.
- Internet and online security INTERNET AND ONLINE SECURITY First steps on the net Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the Internet (see Security on page 56). A comprehensive Internet security program is offered when you first start your computer. You should activate this protection as soon as possible, certainly before you connect to the Internet.
Internet and online security - 53 Internet as the connection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour. DSL (e.g. ADSL) DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an ‘always-on’ connection that runs over the phone line. As DSL and phone do not use the same frequencies, you can use your telephone at the same time you are connected to the Internet (this requires a ‘micro-filter’ on each telephone socket to avoid interference).
- Internet and online security Wireless networks A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network, which may link two or more computers without using wires. Setting up a wireless network is easy and allows you to share files, peripheral devices and an Internet connection. What are benefits of a wireless network? Mobility Wireless LAN systems allow you and other users of your home network to share access to files and devices connected to the network, for example a printer or scanner.
Internet and online security - 55 Wireless adapter Diagram of a working network 1. Access point/router 2. Desktop computer 3. Modem 4. Printer 5. Portable computer 6. PDA/Smartphone 7. Network cables (RJ45) Turning on/off a wireless network connection If your computer has wireless access, but does not feature a Communication button, you may turn your wireless network on or off, or control what is shared over the network with the network management options.
- Internet and online security www.acer.com is your portal to a world of online activities and services: visit us regularly for the latest information and downloads! Security You are probably eager to explore everything the Internet has to offer. In order for you to be safe online, Acer has pre-installed McAfee Internet Security Suite on your computer.
Internet and online security - 57 Spyware is sometimes used by unscrupulous companies to monitor and track the sites you visit on the Internet so as to determine your web-surfing habits and display targeted pop-up ads on your screen. However, some kinds of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture passwords, posing a serious security risk. What is malware? Malicious software, also known as malware, is software designed to deliberately harm your computer.
- Internet and online security By regularly updating your computer, you block attackers from being able to take advantage of software flaws (vulnerabilities) that they could otherwise use to break into your system.
Internet and online security - 59 A complete version of McAfee Internet Security Suite is pre-installed on your Acer system. It includes a free trial subscription to protection updates. Make sure you Activate it! Choose strong passwords and keep them safe Passwords are a fact of life on the Internet today; we use them for everything from ordering flowers and online banking to logging into our favorite airline Web site to see how many miles we have accumulated.
- Internet and online security • • • • addresses that are entirely numbers where there are normally words, and anything else out of the ordinary. Additionally, phishing messages will often tell you that you have to act quickly to keep your account open, update your security, or urge you to provide information immediately or else something bad will happen. Don't take the bait. Don't respond to email messages that ask for personal information.
Internet and online security - 61 secret investment tricks sure to make you untold fortunes, and contests that you've surprisingly won without entering are the enticing hooks used by companies to grab your attention. While you may not directly pay for the software or service with money, the free software or service you asked for may have been bundled with advertising software ("adware") that tracks your behavior and displays unwanted advertisements.
- Internet and online security How do I know when my computer is at risk? If the Action Center reports an alert, or if your computer behaves erratically, crashes unexpectedly or if some of your programs do not work correctly, your computer may be infected by malicious software. However, do not blame every computer problem on a virus! If you suspect your computer is infected, the first thing to do is update, if you have not already done so, and run your antivirus and anti-spyware software.
Playing Blu-Ray or DVD movies - 63 P L A Y IN G B L U -R A Y OR DVD M O VI ES If your computer is equipped with a Blu-Ray or DVD drive, you can play movies on your computer or on a high-definition TV via the HDMI port. 1. Insert the disc into the drive. 2. After a few seconds, the movie will start playing. 3. If the movie does not start playing, open your movie playback program and open the disc from the File menu.
