Quick Start Guide

Computer Basics - 9

Your Computer’s Drives

The drives described below are commonly used on Packard Bell computers. However, this does not mean that they are

present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these drives. To view documentation specific to the

model you have purchased, please check Packard Bell InfoCentre.

Memory Card Reader

Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile

phones. Selected computers include an “all-in-one” memory card reader that allows you to

read and write the most common types, such as CF (Compact Flash®), IBM Microdrive™, SM

(Smart Media™), MMC (Multi Media Card™), SD/SDHC Card, xD-Picture Card™ or MS (Memory

Stick®).

Removing a card from an External Card Reader

1. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Notification

Area (next to the clock).

2. Click on Eject SD Card (or the name of the device).

3. Wait until a Safe to Remove Hardware message is displayed.

4. Remove the card.

Optical Drives

An optical drive is able to read from (or write to) a variety of CD or DVD discs (e.g. Audio CD, CD-ROM, DVD).

Note: Small computers may omit larger devices such as optical drives. If your computer does not

feature an optical drive and you wish to access files or install a program from an optical disc, you will

need additional equipment; you may use either an external optical drive, or a computer with an optical

drive and a network connection (i.e. add the optical drive as a resource that may be used over a

network).

Read-only (ROM) drives

Some optical drives are only able to read information from a disc, they cannot be used to store new information. These drives

can be used to watch films, install programs and read data such as photos or music.

Recordable (R) or Re-Writable (RW) Drives

In addition to reading data from compatible discs, the optical drive(s) provided with your computer may be able to write (or

'burn') information to appropriate discs. You can use these drives to duplicate your CDs, create your own music compilations,

digital photo albums or keep a safe copy of your valuable data. Disc recording software must be used to write information to

recordable discs.

Note: Before copying a CD, make sure that its content is not protected by Trademarks and Copyrights, and that you are

authorised to replicate it. In most countries you are allowed to make an archival backup of software or copy music for your

own personal use.