Aspire 3 USER’S MANUAL
- © 2019. All Rights Reserved. Aspire 3 Covers: A315-42 / A315-42G / A315-54 / A315-54K / A315-56 This revision: October 2019 Important This manual contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright laws. The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. Some features described in this manual may not be supported depending on the Operating System version.
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 off........................... 5 Taking care of your computer ..................... 6 Taking care of your AC adapter .................. 7 Cleaning and servicing................................ 7 Power management Saving power .........................................
Getting started...
First things first - 5 FIRST THINGS FIRST We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer notebook, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup 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. For more on how your computer can help you to be more productive, please refer to the User’s Manual.
- First things first • Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out > Shut down. If you need to power down the computer for a short while, but don’t want to completely shut it down, you can put it to Sleep by doing any of the following: • Press the power button. • Press the sleep hotkey. • Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button, select Power > Sleep. • Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out > Sleep.
First things first - 7 Taking care of your AC adapter 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. Route the power cord and any cables away from where people walk. • When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself but pull on the plug.
- Your Acer notebook tour YOUR ACER NOTEBOOK TOUR After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Setup Guide, let us show you around your new Acer computer. Screen view 1 2 3 # Item Description Microphones Internal digital microphones for sound recording. 2 Webcam Web camera for video communication. A light next to the webcam indicates that the webcam is active. 3 Screen Displays computer output.
Your Acer notebook tour - 9 Keyboard view 1 4 2 3 # 1 Icon Item Description Power indicator Indicates the computer’s power status. Indicates the computer’s battery status. Charging: The light shows amber Battery indicator when the battery is charging. Fully charged: The light shows blue when in AC mode. Keyboard For entering data into your computer. See "Using the keyboard" on page 12. 3 Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device. The touchpad and selection buttons form a single surface.
- Your Acer notebook tour Left view 1 # Icon 2 3 4 5 6 Item Description 1 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter. 2 Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/ Ethernet (RJ-45) 1000-based network. port Pull the lip down to open the port fully. 3 HDMI port Supports high-definition digital video connections. 4/5 USB ports Connect to USB devices. 6 Headset/ speaker jack Connects to audio devices (e.g., speakers, headphones) or a headset with microphone.
Your Acer notebook tour - 11 • For optimal performance, use USB 3.1 Gen 1-certified devices. • Defined by the USB 3.1 Gen 1 specification (SuperSpeed USB). Base view 1 3 2 # Icon Item Description 1 Ventilation and cooling fan Allows the computer to stay cool. Do not cover or obstruct the openings. 2 Speakers Deliver stereo audio output. 3 Battery reset pinhole Simulates removing and reinstalling the battery. Insert a paperclip into the hole and press for four seconds.
- Using the keyboard USING THE KEYBOARD The keyboard has full-sized keys, a numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, special keys and hotkeys. Lock keys The keyboard has lock keys which you can use to turn keyboard functions on and off. Lock key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase. When Num Lock is on, the keypad is in numeric mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete NumLk with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /).
Using the keyboard - 13 Icon Function Description Display toggle Switches display output between the display screen, external monitor (if connected) and both. Display off Turns the display screen backlight off to save power. Press any key to return. Touchpad toggle Turns the built-in touchpad on and off. Keyboard backlight toggle Turns the keyboard backlight on and off. Function varies depending on configuration. Speaker toggle Turns the speakers on and off.
- Using the keyboard Note To swap the hotkey and special function of the F1 to F12 keys, change the function key setting in the BIOS (to open the BIOS press F2 when starting your computer, then select the Main menu and change Function key behavior to Function keys). (Specifications vary depending on model.) Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Key Description Windows key Pressed alone it returns to the Start screen or to return to the last open app.
Using the Precision Touchpad - 15 USING THE PRECISION TOUCHPAD The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement. The Precision Touchpad (PTP) is designed to provide a more uniform, smooth, and accurate touchpad experience. Many applications support precision touchpad gestures that use one or more fingers, however, some gestures may not be supported by the specific application or program you are using.
- Using the Precision Touchpad Three-finger press Lightly tap the touchpad with three fingers to open the Search Windows. Three-finger swipe Swipe across the touchpad with three fingers. • Swipe up to open Task View. Move the cursor over a window and tap the touchpad to select that window, or swipe downwards to exit Task View. • Swipe down to minimize all open windows and show Desktop; swipe upwards to restore the minimized windows. • Swipe left or right to switch between open windows.
Using the Precision Touchpad - 17 Changing touchpad settings To change the touchpad settings to suit your personal requirements, please do the following. 1. In the icon tray in the lower right-hand corner of the screen, select the Notifications icon to open the Notifications pane. 2. Select All settings. 3. Select Devices > Touchpad 4. Now you can adjust the settings to suit your personal needs. You can switch off the touchpad if you prefer to use a mouse.
- Recovery RECOVERY If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently asked questions (see Got a question? on page 50) do not help, you can recover your computer. This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Acer provides Acer Care Center, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, or create a factory default backup. If you cannot access Acer Care Center, click Settings in the Start menu, select Update & Security and then click Recovery.
Recovery - 19 1. From Start, select Care Center then Recovery Management. 2. Select the Backup tab and click Get Started for Create Factory Default Backup to open the Recovery Drive window. 3. Make sure Back up system files to the recovery drive is selected and click Next.
- Recovery 4. Plug in the USB drive and wait for the PC to detect the USB drive then click Next. 5. Everything on the drive will be deleted. Click Create to continue. 6. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 7. Follow the process until it completes. 8. Unplug the USB drive and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on the backup, such as 'Windows Recovery Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember.
Recovery - 21 Reset this PC and keep my files 1. From Start, select Care Center then Recovery Management. 2. Select the Restore tab and click Get started to Choose an option. 3. Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your operating system without removing your personal files. Click Next to continue. Important If you have apps installed on your PC, they will be removed.
- Recovery 4. Resetting the PC will reinstall Windows, change settings back to their factory defaults and remove all preinstalled apps and programs without removing your personal files. Click Reset to continue. 5. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen will turn off during the reset process. 6. The screen will turn back on when it is installing Windows. Your PC will restart several times during the reset process. 7. Follow the process until it completes. 8.
Recovery - 23 3. Select Remove everything to reset your PC back to its factory default. This process will reinstall your operating system and remove all of your personal files, apps, and settings. 4. Select Just remove my files if you are keeping your computer. This will be quicker, but less secure. Files may still be recovered with a file recovery program. Select Remove files and clean the drive if you are not keeping your computer. This process will take longer, but will be more secure.
- Recovery 5. Click Reset to continue. 6. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen will turn off during the reset process. 7. The screen will turn back on when it is installing Windows. Your PC will restart several times during the reset process. 8. Follow the process until it completes. 9. When your PC has completed the reset process, Windows will use factory default settings.
Using a Bluetooth connection - 25 USING A BLUETOOTH CONNECTION Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly over short distances between many different types of devices. Bluetoothenabled devices include computers, cell phones, tablets, wireless headsets, and keyboards. To use Bluetooth, you must ensure the following: 1. Bluetooth is enabled on both devices. 2. Your devices are "paired" (or connected).
- Using a Bluetooth connection 4. Select the device you wish to pair from the list of discovered devices. 5. After pairing, if there is a code displaying on the screen, enter that code on the device to proceed the connection. Note Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require both devices to enter a PIN. In the case of one of the devices not having any inputs (as in a headset), the passcode is hardcoded into the device (usually "0000" or "1234").
Connecting to the Internet - 27 CONNECTING T O TH E INTERNET This chapter includes general information on types of connections, and getting connected to the internet. For detailed information, please refer to Network connections on page 63. Your computer’s built-in network features make it easy for you to connect your computer to the internet.
- Connecting to the Internet To connect to a wireless network, please follow the steps below. 1. Ensure you have a wireless router/access point and current internet connection through the ISP of your choice. Make a note of the wireless network’s name and password (if necessary). If you are trying to connect to a public network (such as at a coffeeshop), make sure you have the wireless network’s name. Note Please refer to your ISP or router documentation for details on connecting to the internet. 2.
Connecting to the Internet - 29 4. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 5. If required, enter the network’s password.
- Connecting to the Internet Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature If your computer has a network port, plug one end of a network cable into the network port on your computer, and the other end into a port on your router (refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online. Connecting to a cellular network If your computer has a SIM slot, you can connect to the internet using a cellular phone network.
Bluelight Shield - 31 BLUELIGHT SHIELD The Bluelight Shield can be enabled to reduce blue-light emissions from the screen to protect your eyes. To configure the Bluelight Shield, search for ’Quick Access’ in the Start Menu. From here you can toggle Bluelight Shield on or off, and you can choose from four different modes to fit your needs: No. Item Description 1 Low Reduction Reduces blue light emission from the LED backlit screen by 10% to 25% for basic protection.
Keeping your computer and data safe...
Securing your computer - 33 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. Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and passwords. Using a computer security lock The computer comes with a computer security slot for a security lock. Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or handle of a locked drawer.
- Securing your computer Entering passwords When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen. • When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you enter the BIOS utility. • Type the Supervisor Password and press Enter to access the BIOS utility. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press Enter. • When the User Password is set and the password on boot parameter is enabled, a prompt appears at boot-up.
BIOS utility - 35 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 F2 while the computer logo is being displayed.
- 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 - 37 4. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 5. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.
- Battery pack BATTERY PACK The computer uses an embedded Lithium battery that gives you long use between charges. Battery characteristics The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the AC adapter. Your computer supports charge-in-use, enabling you to recharge the battery while you continue to operate the computer. However, recharging with the computer turned off significantly reduces charge time. The battery will come in handy when you travel or during a power failure.
Battery pack - 39 Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't been used for a long time. Warning Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F). Extreme temperatures may adversely affect the battery pack. The battery conditioning process ensures your battery accepts the maximum possible charge.
- Battery pack Checking the battery level The power meter indicates the current battery level. Rest the cursor over the battery/power icon on the taskbar to see the battery's present charge level. Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the power meter. Important Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears. Data may be lost if the battery is allowed to become fully depleted and the computer shuts down.
Traveling with your computer - 41 TRAVELING WITH YOUR COMPUTER This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer. Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: 1. Save any open files. 2. Shut down the computer or put it into Sleep or Hibernate mode. 3. Close the display cover. 4. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter. 5.
- Traveling with your computer When you are ready to use the computer again, open the display and, if necessary, press and release the power button. Note The computer may enter Hibernation or Deep Sleep mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time. What to bring to meetings If your meeting is relatively short, you probably do not need to bring anything with you other than your computer.
Traveling with your computer - 43 Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work: • Minimize the effects of temperature changes by keeping the computer with you. • If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot carry the computer with you, leave the computer in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing the computer to excessive heat. • Changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation.
- Traveling with your 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 carrying it into the gate area.
Traveling with your computer - 45 • 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 Travelers Warranty passport. Special considerations Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer.
Ports and connectors...
Universal Serial Bus (USB) - 47 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 3.1 Gen 1 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports have a blue tongue.
- Video and audio connectors VIDEO AND AUDIO CONNECTORS Add an external monitor to your computer via a video port. The type of port available depends on your computer’s configuration. Connecting a monitor 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. 3. Connect the monitor power cable and plug it into a properly grounded wall outlet. 4. Follow any setup instructions in the monitor's user's guide. 5.
HDMI - 49 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.
Got a question? In this section you will find: • • • • • Frequently asked questions Tips for using Windows 10 Troubleshooting information How to protect yourself while online Where to find Acer service center contact information
Frequently asked questions - 51 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. Check if power is being supplied to the computer (if your computer has a power indicator, it will be off); if there is no power, check the following: • If you are using on the battery, it may be low and unable to power the computer.
- Frequently asked questions icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and drag the slider to the right to increase the volume. • 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 hotkeys 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. The keyboard does not respond.
Frequently asked questions - 53 Note To access the BIOS utility, press F2 when you see the Acer logo during boot up. For more information, see Restoring your computer on page 20. Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Your computer is backed by an International Travelers Warranty (ITW) that gives you security and peace of mind when traveling. An ITW passport came with your computer and contains all you need to know about the ITW program.
F r e qu e nt ly a sk 54 - Frequently asked questions Tips and hints for using Windows 10 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 or select the Windows Start button on the lower left-hand corner of the screen. Selecting it will open Start where you can launch apps.
Frequently asked questions - 55 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, press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button and select Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. From here you can: • Select a background image for the lock screen • Turn the Slideshow on or off • Select lock screen apps.
- Frequently asked questions Can I change the screen resolution? Yes, you can. Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and type 'Resolution' in the text box to display the results; select Change the resolution of the display. Alternatively, you can also right-click anywhere on the desktop and select Display settings > Display. How do I set the alarm? Your computer can act as an alarm clock. Type ’Alarms’ to search for the Alarms & Clock app. 1.
Frequently asked questions - 57 Where are my apps? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and click search box, start typing the name of the app you would like to open. How do I make an app appear on Start? If you're in all apps list and you want to make an app appear on Start, right-click an app and select Pin to Start. How do I remove a tile from Start? Right-click a tile to select it and select Unpin from Start to remove the tile from Start.
- Frequently asked questions Do I need one? You do not need a Microsoft ID to use Windows 10, but it makes life easier because you can sync data across different machines you sign in to using a Microsoft ID.
Fr eq u en tl y as ked qu es t io ns Frequently asked questions - 59 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.
- Frequently asked questions Error messages Corrective action I/O parity error Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Keyboard error or no Contact your dealer or an authorized service keyboard connected center. Keyboard interface error Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Memory size mismatch Press Fn + F2 (during POST) to enter the BIOS utility, then press Exit in the BIOS utility to reboot.
Internet and online security - 61 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 Internet security software on page 64). 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 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 - 63 Network connections A LAN (Local Area Network) is a group of computers (for example, within an office building or home) that share a common communications line and resources. When you set up a network, you can share files, peripheral devices (such as a printer) and an internet connection. You can set up a LAN using wired technologies (such as Ethernet) or wireless technologies (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).
- Internet and online security services. Read carefully the documentation supplied with your Access point/router for detailed setup instructions. Wireless adapter Most computers feature a wireless module and Wi-Fi button that turns the network connection on or off. You may also turn your wireless network on or off, or control what is shared over the network with the network management options. Warning Using wireless devices while flying in aircraft may be prohibited.
Internet and online security - 65 Select Acer computers include protection by Norton Security Norton Security is pre-installed on select Acer computers, protecting your identity and financial data from viruses, spyware, malware and other online threats. Learn more about how to stay safe online and how to stay protected after your introductory subscription ends. Note Specifications vary depending on model or Operating System.
- Internet and online security company like Norton or Microsoft and that you have a virus. The main motive behind these scams is to extort money from the victim. Cybercriminals can also install malware such as keylogging software or backdoor Trojans in order to gain access to personal information. How to stay safe: Don't fall for phone calls that tell you your software or computer isn't working.
Internet and online security - 67 tablet, or IoT device is entirely under the control of the person who created the botnet. Most people who are infected with botnets aren't even aware that their computer's security has become compromised! What to do if you're infected: If you're infected you probably don't realize it as bots are notoriously quiet. Your Internet Service Provider might send you a notification alerting you that they found a threat on your network and that you need to remove the bot.
- Internet and online security can encrypt all the data that you send and receive while using a public Wi-Fi hotspot, securing your information from hackers and other users of the same connection. For more tips on how to stay safe Good security habits can reduce your exposure to online crime.
