Gateway M500 Notebook user'sguide Customizing Troubleshooting
Contents 1 Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Connecting and starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Care and maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taking care of your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taking care of your AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Managing Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Using the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Using the battery for the first time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Installing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Removing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting up a home office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Traveling with your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preparing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What to bring with you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Special considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
B Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Getting Started 1 Read this chapter to learn how to: ■ Connect and start your notebook ■ Care for your notebook 1
Chapter 1: Getting Started Connecting and starting your notebook To connect and start your notebook: 1 2 Turn your notebook over so the bottom is facing up. Insert the battery at an angle (1), press gently on the battery (2) until it clicks into place. Then slide the battery lock latch into the locked position 3). Important 2 When using a battery for the first time, fully recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use up the battery charge before recharging again.
Connecting and starting your notebook 3 Connect one end of the AC adapter to the power connector on the back of your notebook and the other end to a correctly grounded electrical outlet. www.gateway.
Chapter 1: Getting Started 4 Slide the cover release latch to the left (1) to open the LCD panel (2). Press the power button (3) to turn on the power. The POST (power-on self-test) routine executes and Windows begins loading. Important 4 To turn off your notebook, we recommend that you use the Windows Turn Off option to shut down your notebook. If you are unable to shut down your notebook normally, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to turn off your notebook.
Care and maintenance Care and maintenance Taking care of your notebook ■ Do not expose your notebook to direct sunlight. Do not place it near sources of heat, such as a radiator. ■ Do not expose your notebook to temperatures below 32ºF (0ºC) or above 122ºF (50ºC). ■ Do not subject your notebook to magnetic fields. ■ Do not expose your notebook to rain or moisture. ■ Do not spill water or any liquid on your notebook. ■ Do not subject your notebook to heavy shock and vibration.
Chapter 1: Getting Started Taking care of your battery ■ Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements. Turn off your notebook before removing or replacing batteries. ■ Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from children. ■ Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Recycle if at all possible. Cleaning and servicing To clean your notebook: 1 2 3 Turn off your notebook, then remove the battery. Disconnect the AC adapter. Use a soft cloth moistened with water.
Getting Familiar with Your Notebook 2 Read this chapter to learn about: ■ Components, ports, and jacks ■ Features of your notebook 7
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Top 8 # Item Icon Description 1 LCD panel Displays notebook output. 2 Status indicators LEDs (light-emitting diodes) that turn on and off to show the status of your notebook and its functions and components. 3 AV control panel Control buttons for playing audio/video media. 4 Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a mouse. 5 Palm rest Comfortable support area for your hands when you use your notebook. www.gateway.
Top # Item Icon Description 6 Speakers Output sound. 7 Touchpad buttons (left and right) The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons. 8 Keyboard Inputs data into your notebook. 9 Multi-function buttons Buttons for opening frequently used programs. See “Multi-function buttons” on page 29 for more details. 10 Power button Turns on your notebook power. 11 Microphone Inputs sounds and voices into your notebook. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Front 10 # Item Description 1 Battery bay Insert the battery into this bay. 2 Eject button Press to eject the CD or DVD. 3 DVD/CD-RW drive indicator This LED lights up when the DVD/CD-RW drive is in use. 4 DVD/CD-RW drive Insert CDs or DVDs into this drive. 5 IR sensor Sends and receives data for an IR (infrared) device, such as an IR printer. 6 Subwoofer The subwoofer is located in this bay.
Left Left # Item Icon Description 1 Hard drive bay The hard drive is located in this bay. 2 PC Card slot Insert one Type II 16-bit PC Card or 32-bit CardBus PC Card into this slot. 3 PC Card eject button Press to remove the PC Card from the PC card slot. 4 SD memory card slot Insert an SD (Secured Digital) memory card into this slot. 5 Kensington™ lock slot Secure your notebook to an object by connecting a Kensington cable lock to this slot. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Right # Item 1 USB ports Plug USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices (such as a USB Iomega™ Zip™ drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse) into these ports. 2 Ventilation fan Helps cool internal components. Do not block or insert objects into these slots. 12 Icon Description www.gateway.
Back Back # Item Icon Description 1 Power connector Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector. 2 External monitor port Plug an external VGA monitor into this port. 3 S-Video jack Plug an S-Video device (such as a television) into this jack. 4 Modem jack Plug a modem cable into this jack. 5 Network jack Plug a 10/100 Ethernet network cable into this jack. 6 Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. 7 Line-in jack Plug an audio device (such as a stereo) into this jack.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook # Item 11 IEEE 1394 port (4-pin) Plug an IEEE 1394® (also known as FireWire® or iLink®) device (such as a digital video camera) into this 4-pin IEEE 1394 port. 12 IEEE 1394 port (6-pin) Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as FireWire or iLink) device (such as a digital video camera) into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port. 14 Icon Description www.gateway.
Bottom Bottom # Item Icon Description 1 Battery lock latch Slide to unlock the battery. 2 Battery release latch Slide to remove the battery. 3 Battery bay Insert the battery into this bay. 4 Hard drive bay The hard drive is located in this bay. 5 Hard drive protector Protects the hard drive from accidental bumps and vibrations. 6 Memory bay The memory modules are located in this bay. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Features This notebook was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features: Performance ■ Mobile Intel® Pentium™ 4 Processor - M with Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep™ technology ■ 512K on-die L2 cache ■ 15.
Features Connectivity ■ High-speed fax/data software modem ■ Onboard PCI 10/100 Mbps LAN support ■ Fast infrared wireless communication ■ 3 USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports (2.0) ■ 2 IEEE 1394 ports (one unpowered 4-pin port and one powered 6-pin port) ■ 802.11b wireless LAN Human-centric design and ergonomics ■ Sleek, smooth, and stylish design ■ Full-sized keyboard ■ Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device ■ Multi-function buttons Expansion ■ Upgradeable memory www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook LCD panel The graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality, and desktop-performance graphics. Your notebook supports a widescreen Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) displaying up to 16.7 million colors at 1280 × 854 Super eXtended Graphics Array (SXGA) resolution. Simultaneous display Your notebook’s crisp display and multimedia capabilities are great for giving presentations.
Status indicators Status indicators Your notebook has seven easy-to-read status indicators (LEDs) under the LCD panel. The Power and Standby indicators are visible even when you close the LCD panel so you can see the status of your notebook while the cover is closed. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook # Item 1 Wireless communication 2 Power Icon Description Lights when the Wireless LAN capabilities are enabled. Lights when your notebook is on. Blinks when a battery-low condition occurs. 3 Standby Blinks when notebook enters Hibernation mode. 4 Media activity Lights when the hard drive or DVD/CD-RW drive is active. 5 Battery charge Lights when the battery is being charged. 6 Caps Lock Lights when Caps Lock is activated.
Keyboard Keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys with an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys, and twelve function keys. Special keys Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase. Num Lock (FN+F11) When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /).
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper-right corner of the key caps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys Desired Access Num Lock On Number keys on embedded keypad Type numbers in a normal manner. Cursor-control keys on embedded keypad Hold SHIFT while using cursor-control keys.
Keyboard Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Key Description Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key perform special functions. Below are a few examples: TAB (Activates next taskbar button) E (Opens My Computer) F (Finds a file) M (Minimizes All) SHIFT + á + M (Undoes Minimize All) á + R (Displays Run dialog box) á á á á Application key + + + + Opens the program’s context menu (same as a right-click).
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Hot Key Function Icon Description FN+F1 Hotkey help Displays a list of the hotkeys and their functions. FN+F2 Standby Puts your notebook in StandbyStandby mode, which can be defined through the advanced section of the Power Management Properties in the Windows Control Panel. FN+F3 Display toggle Switches display output between the LCD panel, an external monitor (if connected), or both the LCD panel and external monitor.
Keyboard Keyboard ergonomics Located below the keyboard, the wide and curved palm rest is ergonomically designed to provide you with a comfortable place to rest your hands while you type. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means the cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of the touchpad. The central location on the palm rest provides optimum comfort and support. 26 www.gateway.
Touchpad Touchpad basics Important Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Therefore, the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping too hard will not increase the touchpad’s responsiveness. To use the touchpad: ■ Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor. ■ Press the left (1) and right (2) buttons located on the edge of the touchpad to make selections and run functions.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Function Left Button Execute Click twice quickly. Tap twice (at the same speed as double-clicking the mouse button). Select Click once. Tap once. Drag Click and hold, then use your finger to drag the cursor on the touchpad. Tap twice (at the same speed as double-clicking the mouse button) and hold your finger to the touchpad on the second tap to drag the cursor. Access context menu 28 Right Button Click once. www.gateway.
Multi-function buttons Multi-function buttons Located at the top of the keyboard are five multi-function buttons used to open frequently used programs or functions. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook # Item 1 Wireless communication Press this button to turn the Wireless LAN function on and off. For more information, see “Wireless communication” on page 36. 2 E-mail Press this to open the e-mail program. 3 Internet browser Press this button to open your Internet browser. 4 P1 This button is user-programmable. For more information about programming buttons, see “Launch Manager” on page 76. 5 P2 This button is user-programmable.
Storage Storage This notebook supplies you with the following media storage: ■ High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard drive ■ Slot-loading DVD/CD-RW drive ■ Secure Digital (SD) slot Hard drive The high-capacity hard drive is the answer to your storage needs. This is where your programs and data are stored. Optical drive A high-speed optical drive (DVD/CD-RW drive) gives you portable multimedia access and at the same time lets you burn your data onto a recordable CD.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Ejecting the disc To eject the disc from the slot, press the eject button and wait for the drive to eject the disc. 32 www.gateway.
Storage Playing DVD movies To play DVD movies in your notebook, insert the DVD into the drive and the DVD movie will automatically play after a few seconds. Important When you open the DVD player for the first time, the program asks you to input the region code. DVDs are divided into 6 regions. Once your DVD drive is set to a region code, it will play DVDs of that region only.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Connectivity options Your notebook has built-in features for connecting to a network and communicating with other computers. Ethernet and LAN The built-in network feature allows you to connect your notebook to an Ethernet-based (10/100 Mbps) network. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the network jack on the back of your notebook to a network jack or hub on your network. 34 www.gateway.
Connectivity options Fax/data modem Your notebook has a built-in fax/data modem. Warning This modem port is not compatible with digital phone lines. Plugging this modem into a digital phone line will damage the modem. To use the fax/data modem jack, connect a telephone cable from the modem jack to a telephone jack. Warning To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Wireless communication This notebook has a wireless communication feature built-in. This feature allows you to communicate with other wireless communication devices. You can manually turn off your wireless communication feature. Warning 36 Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.
Connectivity options Fast infrared Your notebook’s fast infrared (FIR) port allows you to do wireless data transfer with other IR-aware computers and peripheral devices such as PDAs (personal digital assistants), mobile phones, and infrared printers. The infrared port can transfer data at speeds of up to 4 Mb/s at a distance of up to one meter. To use FIR, position two IR-aware devices so their IR ports are no more than one meter apart and offset no more than 15 degrees.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Audio Your notebook includes 16-bit high-fidelity stereo audio. The speakers, located near the keyboard, direct sound towards you to further enhance sound output. There are audio ports on the back of your notebook. See “Back” on page 13 for the location of these ports. Also see “Audio devices” on page 59 for more information on connecting external audio devices. Your notebook has a subwoofer on the front.
Audio AV control panel The AV control panel is a special feature of your notebook. Through this AV control panel, you can play most of your audio/video CD, DVD, MP3, and SD media. . # Item Icon Description 1 LCD display Liquid-crystal display (LCD) displays current media status. 2 Power button Turns the AV control panel on or off. 3 Source button Selects the playback source (DVD/CD-RW, hard drive, or SD memory card). 4 Play/pause button Plays and pauses the media playback.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook # Item Icon Description 8 Repeat button Selects the options: no repeat, repeat the currently playing track, or repeat all tracks during playback. 9 Mute button Mutes the sound coming out of the speakers. 10 Fast rewind/fast forward dial Use this dial to fast rewind or fast forward the track currently playing. 11 Previous track button Lets you jump to the previous track on the playlists.
Audio # Item Description 1 Hard drive Indicates a file on the hard drive is playing. 2 CD Indicates a CD is playing. 3 Video Indicates a DVD or video CD is playing. 4 Track number Displays which track is playing. 5 Elapsed time Displays the amount of time the track has been playing. 6 Volume/Mute Displays the volume level and indicates if the sound has been muted. 7 SD memory card Indicates a file on the SD memory card is playing.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Adjusting the volume Press the minus (-) button on the AV control panel to decrease the volume on the speaker, press the plus (+) button to increase the volume. 42 www.gateway.
Securing your notebook Securing your notebook Security features include hardware and software locks — a security slot and password. Security slot A security slot located on the left side of your notebook lets you connect a Kensington-compatible notebook security lock. Wrap a notebook security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or locked drawer handle. Insert the lock into the slot on your notebook and turn the key to secure the lock. Some keyless models are also available. www.gateway.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Your Notebook Passwords Passwords protect your notebook from unauthorized access. When set, no one can access your notebook without entering the correct password. There are three types of passwords you can set: ■ Setup Password secures your notebook against unauthorized entry to and use of the BIOS Setup utility. ■ Power-on Password secures your notebook against unauthorized use.
Managing Power 3 Read this chapter to learn how to: ■ Install and remove the battery ■ Recharge the battery ■ Manage power usage 45
Chapter 3: Managing Power Using the battery Your notebook’s battery lets you use your notebook without having to plug it into an electrical outlet. The battery recharges when the AC adapter is plugged into your notebook and an electrical outlet. The battery has the following characteristics: ■ Employs current battery technology standards The computer uses a Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery which does not have the memory effect problem of Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries.
Using the battery Warning Do not expose batteries to temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 140°F (60°C). This may adversely affect the battery. Installing the battery To install a battery: ■ Insert the battery at an angle (1), press gently on the battery (2) until it clicks into place, then slide the battery lock latch into the locked position (3). www.gateway.
Chapter 3: Managing Power Removing the battery Important Before removing the battery, make sure that you have an AC adapter connected to the computer. Otherwise, turn off the computer. To remove the battery: ■ 48 Slide the battery lock latch into the unlocked position (1), slide and hold the battery release latch (2), then lift the battery by using the built-in slot in the battery (3) and pull the battery out of the bay (4). www.gateway.
Using the battery Recharging the battery To charge the battery: ■ Install the battery, then plug the AC adapter into your notebook and an electrical outlet. Charging modes The adapter has two charging modes: ■ Rapid mode Your notebook uses rapid charging when power is turned off and the AC adapter is connected to your notebook and an electrical outlet. In rapid mode, a fully depleted battery gets 95% charged in approximately 1.5 hours.
Chapter 3: Managing Power Optimizing battery life Optimizing battery life prolongs the charge/recharge cycle and improves recharge efficiency. Follow these suggestions to optimize and maximize battery power: ■ Purchase an extra battery. ■ Use the AC adapter whenever possible so the battery is reserved for on-the-go computing. ■ Keep the battery in the your notebook when you are using the AC adapter. The constant trickle charge maintains the battery level to eliminate the battery self-discharge effect.
Using the battery The following table shows the recommended course of action to take when you encounter a battery-low condition. Situation Recommended Action AC adapter and electrical outlet available 1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer. 2 Save all necessary files. 3 Resume work. Turn off the computer if you want to recharge the battery rapidly. An extra fully-charged battery available 1 2 3 4 5 AC adapter or electrical outlet not available 1 Save all necessary files. 2 Close the program.
Chapter 3: Managing Power Power management Your notebook 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 drive, a peripheral device connected to the parallel port, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (called an inactivity timeout), your notebook stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy.
Using Peripheral Devices and Options 4 Read this chapter to learn how to: ■ Connect peripheral devices ■ Use hardware options ■ Upgrade your notebook 53
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options External monitor You can connect an external monitor to the CRT port. Read the monitor manual for additional instructions. Important If an external monitor is not connected, closing the display cover puts your notebook into Standby mode. Using simultaneous display Your notebook takes advantage of Windows multi-display capability, allowing you to use your notebook for presentation purposes.
S-Video S-Video The S-Video jack allows you to output to a television or display devices that support S-Video input. www.gateway.
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options External keyboard This notebook has a keyboard with full-sized keys and an embedded keypad. If you feel more comfortable using a desktop keyboard, you can connect a USB external keyboard. To connect an external keyboard, plug the external keyboard into the USB port. 56 www.gateway.
External pointing device External pointing device This notebook accepts a USB mouse or a similar pointing device. www.gateway.
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options Printer You can connect a printer to your notebook’s parallel or USB port. See your printer manual for operating instructions. 58 www.gateway.
Audio devices Audio devices Audio devices connect to the audio ports on the back of your notebook. You can plug an external microphone into the microphone jack, an audio line-in device into the line-in jack, and amplified speakers or headphones into the microphone jack. See “Back” on page 13 for information about port location. The subwoofer is located on the front of your notebook. See “Front” on page 10 for the location of the subwoofer.
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options PC Card Your notebook has a built-in CardBus PC Card slot that can accommodate one type II PC Card. Contact Gateway for PC Card options available that you can purchase for your notebook. PC Card slot The type II CardBus PC Card slot found on the left side of your notebook accepts credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of your notebook.
PC Card Inserting a card Insert the card into the slot and make the correct connections (for example, a network cable), if necessary. See your card manual for details. Ejecting a card Before ejecting a PC Card: ■ Exit the program using the card ■ Left-click the PC Card icon on the taskbar and stop the card operation Press the slot eject button once to pop it out, then press it again to eject the PC Card. www.gateway.
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options USB devices Your notebook has three USB (Universal Serial Bus) (2.0) ports that allow you to connect peripheral devices. Common USB devices include a mouse, keyboard, or digital camera. 62 www.gateway.
IEEE 1394 devices IEEE 1394 devices Your notebook's fast IEEE 1394 ports allow you to connect IEEE 1394 supported devices like a digital video camera or optical drive. Your notebook comes with two IEEE 1394 ports: a 4-pin port and 6-pin port. See your peripheral device's documentation for details. www.gateway.
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options Miscellaneous options Additional AC adapters and batteries You can order an AC adapter and spare batteries from Gateway. Battery It is a good practice to have a spare battery around, especially when you travel. The Li-Ion battery, coupled with the power management features of your notebook, supplies you with more power on-the-go. AC adapter The compact AC adapter charges your battery and supplies power to your notebook.
Key component upgrades Key component upgrades Your notebook delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the programs they use may demand more. This notebook allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance. Important Contact Gateway if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.
Chapter 4: Using Peripheral Devices and Options 66 www.gateway.
Moving with Your Notebook 5 Read this chapter to learn about: ■ Moving your notebook ■ Traveling with your notebook 67
Chapter 5: Moving with Your Notebook Disconnecting from peripheral devices To disconnect your notebook from peripheral devices: 68 1 2 3 4 Save your work in progress. 5 Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are using one to secure your notebook. Shut down Windows and turn off your notebook. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer, external monitor, and other external devices. www.gateway.
Moving around Moving around Follow these tips when you are taking your notebook to a meeting. Preparing your notebook Before moving your notebook, close and latch the LCD panel to place it in Standby mode. You can now safely take your notebook anywhere you go within the building. To bring your notebook out of Standby mode, open the display. What to bring to short meetings A fully charged battery runs your notebook for three hours under most circumstances.
Chapter 5: Moving with Your Notebook Taking the notebook home Follow these tips when you are moving your notebook from one location to another, for example from your office to your home. Preparing your notebook To prepare your notebook for transport: 1 Remove all media from the drives. Failure to remove the media can damage the drive. 2 3 Shut down Windows and turn off your notebook.
Taking the notebook home Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your notebook while traveling to and from work: ■ Minimize the effect of temperature changes by keeping your notebook with you. ■ If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot bring your notebook with you, leave your notebook in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing your notebook to excessive heat. ■ Changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation.
Chapter 5: Moving with Your Notebook Traveling with your notebook Follow these tips when you are traveling locally with your notebook. Preparing your notebook Prepare your notebook as if you were taking it home. Be sure the battery in your notebook is charged. Airport security may require you to turn on your notebook when bringing it into the gate area.
Traveling internationally with your notebook Traveling internationally with your notebook Follow these tips when you are traveling from country to country Preparing your notebook Prepare your notebook as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you.
Chapter 5: Moving with Your Notebook 74 www.gateway.
Using Installed Programs and Utilities 6 Read this chapter to learn how to: ■ Access programs in Windows ■ Program the multi-function buttons ■ Use the BIOS Setup utility 75
Chapter 6: Using Installed Programs and Utilities System software Your notebook comes preloaded with the following software: ■ Windows XP operating system ■ DMI (Desktop Management Interface)-compliant hardware BIOS Setup utility ■ System utilities, drivers, and programs Important To access Windows programs, click Start, then click the program folder. Click the program icon to open the selected program. To learn about the software and utility, use the online help provided by the software.
BIOS Setup utility BIOS Setup utility The BIOS Setup utility is a hardware configuration program built into your notebook’s BIOS (basic input/output system). Your notebook is already correctly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. You can use the BIOS Setup utility to create passwords to limit access to your notebook. To open the BIOS Setup utility, press F2 during startup.
Chapter 6: Using Installed Programs and Utilities To set a password: 1 Use the up arrow and down arrow keys to highlight a password parameter (Setup, Power-on, or Hard Disk) and press the Enter key. The password box opens. 2 Type a password. The password can consist of as many as eight alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9). Important Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen. 3 Press Enter. The retype password box opens.
BIOS Setup utility Removing a password To remove a password, use the up or down arrow key to highlight a password parameter and press the left or right arrow key to select None. Changing a password To change a password, you have to first remove the password and then follow the instructions in “Setting a password” on page 77. www.gateway.
Chapter 6: Using Installed Programs and Utilities 80 www.gateway.
Troubleshooting 7 Read this chapter to learn how to troubleshoot common problems. Warning Do not attempt to open and service your notebook by yourself. Contact Gateway for assistance.
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting Frequently-asked questions This is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your notebook, and it gives easy answers and solutions to these questions. I press the power button, but the notebook does not start or boot-up. Look at the Power indicator: ■ ■ If it is not lit, your notebook is not getting power. Check the following: ■ If you are running on battery power, it may be low and unable to power your notebook.
Frequently-asked questions No audio from the notebook. Check the following: ■ The volume may be muted. In Windows, look at the volume control icon on the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and deselect the Mute option. ■ The speakers may be turned off. Press FN+F5 to turn the speakers on (this hotkey also turns the speakers off). ■ The volume level may be too low. In Windows, look at the volume control icon on the taskbar. Click the icon and adjust the level.
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting The printer does not work. Check the following: ■ Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and it is turned on. ■ Make sure the printer cable is connected securely to your notebook’s USB or parallel port and the corresponding port on the printer. I want to set up my location to use the internal modem. To set up your location: 1 2 Open the Windows Control Panel and double-click the Modems icon. Click Dialing Properties and begin setting up your location.
Error messages Error messages If you receive an error message, note the message and take the corrective action. The following table lists the error messages in alphabetical order together with the recommended course of action. Error Messages Corrective Action CMOS Battery Bad Contact Gateway. CMOS Checksum Error Contact Gateway. Equipment Configuration Error Press F2 (during startup) to open the BIOS Setup utility, then press Esc to exit and reconfigure your notebook.
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting 86 Error Messages Corrective Action RAM BIOS Bad Contact Gateway. RAM Parity Error Contact Gateway. Real-Time Clock Error Press F2 (during startup) to reconfigure your notebook. Video RAM BIOS Bad Contact Gateway. www.gateway.
Telephone support Telephone support Before calling Gateway Technical Support If you have a technical problem with your notebook, follow these recommendations before contacting Gateway Technical Support: ■ Make sure that your notebook is connected correctly to a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use a surge protector, make sure that it is turned on. ■ If a peripheral device, such as a keyboard or mouse, does not appear to work, make sure that all cables are plugged in securely.
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting Telephone numbers Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, technical support, and information services. Automated troubleshooting system Service description How to reach Use an automated menu system and your telephone keypad to find answers to common problems.
Tutoring and training Tutoring and training Gateway's Technical Support professionals cannot provide hardware and software training or tutorial services. Instead, Gateway recommends the following tutoring and training resources. Self-help If you have how-to questions about using your Gateway-supplied hardware or software, see the following resources: ■ The printed or online documentation that came with your hardware or software.
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting Training Gateway provides the following in-person and computerized training: Resource Service description For more information In-Store Training at Gateway stores Our friendly and knowledgeable software trainers can teach you how to use the Internet and the most popular software programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. www.gateway.com/country Gateway Learning Libraries A variety of courses and tutorials are available on CD.
Specifications A Read this chapter to learn about specifications for your notebook.
Appendix A: Microprocessor ■ Mobile Intel® Pentium™ 4 Processor-M with Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep™ technology Memory ■ Onboard memory upgradeable to 1024 MB with 2 DDR-266 SoDIMM ■ 512K on-die L2 cache Data storage ■ One high-capacity, Enhanced-IDE hard drive ■ Slot-loading DVD/CD-RW drive ■ Secure Digital (SD) slot Display and video 92 ■ 15.2” 15:10 SXGA (Super eXtended Graphic Array) widescreen TFT LCD panel ■ 1280 × 854 (SXGA) resolution, 16.
Audio ■ Built-in speaker and microphone ■ Sound Blaster Pro- and Windows Sound System-compatible ■ Built-in subwoofer ■ Separate audio ports for line-in/microphone, and line-out/headphones Keyboard and pointing device ■ 84-/85-/88-key Windows keyboard ■ Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device I/O ports ■ One Type II CardBus PC Card slot ■ One RJ-11 phone jack (V.90) ■ One RJ-45 network jack (Ethernet 10/100) ■ One power connector ■ One external monitor port (DDC 2.
Appendix A: Environment ■ ■ Temperature ■ Operating: 5°C ~ 35°C ■ Non-operating: -10°C ~ 65°C Humidity (non-condensing) ■ Operating: 20% ~ 80% RH ■ Non-operating: 20% ~ 80% RH Operating System ■ Windows XP Home edition Power ■ ■ Battery ■ 59.2-WattHour Li-Ion battery ■ 1.5-hour rapid charge/4-hour charge-in-use AC adapter ■ 70-Watt ■ Auto sensing 100~240Vac, 50~60Hz Options 94 ■ 128/256/512 MB DDR 266 SoDIMM memory upgrade module ■ Additional AC adapter www.gateway.
Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information B Important safety information Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed. Warning Always follow these instructions to help guard against personal injury and damage to your Gateway system.
Appendix B: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information Setting up your system ■ Read and follow all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation before you operate your system. Retain all safety and operating instructions for future use. ■ Do not use this product near water or a heat source such as a radiator. ■ Set up the system on a stable work surface. ■ The product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the rating label.
Important safety information Replacement parts and accessories Use only replacement parts and accessories recommended by Gateway. Important Warning Do not use Gateway products in areas classified as hazardous locations. Such areas include patient care areas of medical and dental facilities, oxygen-laden environments, or industrial facilities. To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord. www.gateway.
Appendix B: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information Regulatory compliance statements Wireless Guidance Low power, Radio transmitting type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices), may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. These devices may operate in the 2.4 GHz (i.e. 802.11B/G LAN & Bluetooth) , 5.2 GHz (i.e. 802.11A LAN), and traditional cellular or PCS cellular bands (i.e. Cellular data modem).
Regulatory compliance statements Warning In environments where the risk of interference to other devices or services is harmful or perceived as harmful, the option to use a wireless device may be restricted or eliminated. Airports, Hospitals, and Oxygen or flammable gas laden atmospheres are limited examples where use of wireless devices may be restricted or eliminated.
Appendix B: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information United States of America Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Intentional emitter per FCC Part 15 Low power, Radio transmitter type devices (radio frequency (RF) wireless communication devices), operating in the 2.4 GHz band and/or 5.15 – 5.35 GHz band, may be present (embedded) in your notebook system. This section is only applicable if these devices are present. Refer to the system label to verify the presence of wireless devices.
Regulatory compliance statements FCC declaration of conformity Responsible party: Gateway Companies, Inc. 610 Gateway Drive, North Sioux City, SD 57049 (605) 232-2000 Fax: (605) 232-2023 Product: ■ M500B1 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this product is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Appendix B: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information Telecommunications per FCC part 68 (applicable to products fitted with USA modems) Your modem complies with Part 68 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules. On the computer or modem card is a label that contains the FCC registration number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this device. If requested, this information must be provided to the telephone company.
Regulatory compliance statements Laser safety statement All Gateway systems equipped with CD and DVD drives comply with the appropriate safety standards, including IEC 825. The laser devices in these components are classified as “Class 1 Laser Products” under a US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation Performance Standard. Should the unit ever need servicing, contact an authorized service location.
Appendix B: Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information Notices Copyright © 2003 Gateway, Inc. All Rights Reserved 14303 Gateway Place Poway, CA 92064 USA All Rights Reserved This publication is protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of it may be reproduced or transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior consent in writing from Gateway. The information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate. However, changes are made periodically.
Index A B AC adapter caring for 5 connecting 3 connector 13 international adapters 73 accessories hard drive upgrade 65 memory upgrade 65 PC cards 60 safety precautions 97 spare AC adapter 64 spare battery 64 audio 38 connecting devices 59 connecting externally 59 headphone jack 13 microphone jack 13 muting 40, 41 playing 38 speakers 38 specifications 93 subwoofer 38 troubleshooting 83 AV control panel 8, 39 eject button 39 fast forward button 40 fast rewind button 40 LCD panel 40 mute button 40 next trac
card PC slot 11 using PC 60 care AC adapter 5 battery 6 notebook 5 carrying case 70 CD ejecting 32 inserting 31 CD drive eject button 10 location 10 status indicator 10, 20 using 31 charging checking level 49 modes 49 cleaning notebook 6 clicking 28 closing LCD panel 18 notebook 18 connections AC adapter 3, 13 audio 59 digital camera 62 digital video camera 63 Ethernet 13 external audio 13 external keyboard 56 external speakers 13 Firewire 63 headphone 13 IEEE 1394 14 iLink 63 keyboard 56 LAN 13 line-in 13
recordable 31 status indicator 20 DVD ejecting 32 inserting 31 playing movies 33 regional codes 33 DVD drive eject button 10 location 10 regional codes 33 status indicator 10, 20 using 31 E eject button CD drive 10 DVD drive 10 PC Card 11 e-mail button 30 error messages 85 Ethernet connecting 34 jack 13 turning wireless on or off 30, 36 external monitor 54 F fan 12 FAQ 82 fax connecting modem 35 features 16 Firewire port 14, 63 Fn key 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 frequently-asked questions 82 front view 10 H hard
hotkey help 24 hotkeys 23 mute 24 Num Lock 21 numeric keypad 22 screen blank 24 Scroll Lock 21 Standby 24 Windows 23 L LAN connecting 34 jack 13 latch battery 2, 4, 47, 48 LCD panel release 18 Launch Manager 76 LCD brightness key 24 LCD panel location 8 opening and closing 18 power management 18 release latch 4, 18 simultaneous display 18 specifications 92 troubleshooting 82 LEDs 19 left view 11 lights 19 line-in jack 13 lock Kensington slot 11, 43 M maintenance 5 memory bay 15 specifications 92 upgrading
PC cards 60 spare AC adapter 64 spare battery 64 P palm rest 8, 25 parallel port 13, 58 password 44 changing in BIOS Setup utility 79 removing in BIOS Setup utility 79 setting in BIOS Setup utility 77 types 44 PC Card eject button 11 ejecting 61 inserting 61 slot 11 using 60 playing CD 39, 40 DVD 39, 40 music CD 39, 40 pointer moving 26, 27 power AC adapter 3, 5, 13, 46, 48, 49, 50, 70, 71, 73 battery 2, 15, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 button 9 connector 13 conserving battery power 50, 52 indicator 20 management 1
dimensions 93 display 92 jacks 93 keyboard 93 LCD panel 92 memory 92 microprocessor 92 ports 93 size 93 touchpad 93 video 92 weight 93 Standby mode hotkey 24 status indicator 20 starting notebook 2 status indicators 8, 19 battery charge 20 Caps Lock 20 CD drive 20 DVD drive 20 Num Lock 20 power 20 Standby 20 wireless communication 20 storage 31 subwoofer 10 S-Video connecting 55 jack 13 T Technical Support 88 technical support automated troubleshooting 88 FaxBack support 88 Technical Support 88 tips before
V ventilation fan 12 VGA port 13 video S-Video out jack 13, 55 video camera connecting 63 video specifications 92 volume adjusting 42 controls 24, 39 muting 24, 40 W Web browser button 30 Windows keys 23 wireless communication 36 button 30 status indicator 20 wireless data transfer 37 111
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MAN SYS M500 USR GDE R0 4/03
