Acer TravelMate 230 Series User Manual
Acer laptop pc user's guide
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Summary of Contents for Acer TravelMate 230 Series
- Page 1 TravelMate 230/280 series User’s guide...
- Page 2 Serial Number: ___________________________________ Purchase Date: ___________________________________ Place of Purchase: ________________________________ Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Other company's product names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to their respective companies.
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Page 3: First Things First
First things first We would like to thank you for making the TravelMate series of notebook computers your choice for your mobile computing needs. We hope you will be happy with your TravelMate as much as we enjoyed making it for you. Your guides To help you use your TravelMate, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Just for Starters... -
Page 4: Basic Care And Tips For Using Your Computer
For more information about our products, services, and support information, please visit our Web site (global.acer.com). Basic care and tips for using your computer Turning your computer on and off To turn on the computer, simply press and release the power switch below the LCD screen beside the Launch keys. -
Page 5: Taking Care Of Your Ac Adapter
• Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer. • Do not subject the computer to heavy shock and vibration. • Do not expose the computer to dust and dirt. • Never place objects on top of the computer to avoid damaging the computer. - Page 6 If any of the following occurs: • The computer has been dropped or the body has been damaged. • Liquid has been spilled into the product. • The computer does not operate normally. Please refer to "Troubleshooting my computer" on page 59.
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Page 7: Table Of Contents
First things first Your guides Basic care and tips for using your computer 1 Getting to know your TravelMate A TravelMate tour Front view Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Features Indicators Understanding the icons Using the keyboard Special keys Touchpad Touchpad basics... - Page 8 viii 3 Troubleshooting my computer Frequently-asked questions Error messages Requesting service International Traveler’s Warranty (ITW) Before you call Appendix A Specifications Appendix B Notices Index Contents...
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Page 9: Getting To Know Your Travelmate
1 Getting to know your TravelMate... - Page 10 Your TravelMate computer combines high- performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.
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Page 11: A Travelmate Tour
A TravelMate tour After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Just for Starters... poster, let us show you around your new TravelMate computer. Front view Item Display screen Description Also called LCD (liquid-crystal display), displays computer output. -
Page 12: Left View
Item Status indicators Touchpad Click buttons (left, center and right) Palmrest Keyboard Launch Keys Power switch Left view Item PC Card slot Eject button 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description LEDs (light-emitting diodes) that turn on and off to show the status of the computer, its functions and components. -
Page 13: Right View
Item Floppy activity indicator Speaker/Headphone-out jack Line-in jack Microphone-in jack Floppy drive Volume control Floppy disk eject button Right view Item Battery bay Optical drive Description LED (light-emitting diode) that turns on and off when the floppy is active. Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g., speakers, headphones). -
Page 14: Rear View
Item LED indicator Emergency eject slot Eject button Security keylock Rear view Item Power jack Parallel port USB ports (2) Modem jack 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description Lights up when the optical drive is active. Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer is turned off. -
Page 15: Bottom View
Item Network jack External display port Bottom view Item Battery bay Battery release latch Hard disk bay Description Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based network. Connects to a display device (e.g., external monitor, LCD projector) and displays up to 16M colors at 1024x768 resolution. Description Houses the computer's battery pack. - Page 16 Item Memory compartment 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Description Houses the computer's main memory.
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Page 17: Features
Features Below is a brief summary of the computer’s many features: Performance • Intel® Mobile Pentium® 4 processor with 512 KB L2 cache or Intel® Mobile Celeron® processor with 256 KB L2 cache • 64-bit memory bus • CD, DVD or DVD/CD-RW combo drive •... - Page 18 • Ethernet/Fast Ethernet port • USB (Universal Serial Bus) 2.0 ports • 802.11a/802.11b wireless LAN option • Bluetooth option Human-centric design and ergonomics • All-in-one design (CD, DVD or combo drive, floppy drive, and hard disk) • Sleek, smooth and stylish design •...
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Page 19: Indicators
Indicators The computer has six easy-to-read status icons below the display screen. The Power and Sleep status icons are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed. Icon Function Power... -
Page 20: Understanding The Icons
Icon Function Num Lock Understanding the icons When the cover of your computer is closed, 4 easy-to-read icons are shown, indicationg which state or feature is enabled or disabled. Description Lights up when Bluetooth is enabled. Lights up when the wireless LAN is enabled. Lights up when the computer is on. -
Page 21: Using The Keyboard
Using the keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys and 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 key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in... -
Page 22: Embedded Numeric Keypad
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 keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys. Desired access Number keys on embedded keypad... -
Page 23: Windows Keys
Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key perform shortcut functions. Below are a few examples: Shift + Application key Opens a context menu (same as a right-click). Hot keys The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen brightness, volume output and the... - Page 24 To activate hot keys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hot key combination. Hot key Icon Fn-F1 Fn-F2 Fn-F3 Fn-F4 Fn-F5 Fn-F6 1 Getting to know your TravelMate Function Description Hot Key Help Displays help on hot keys.
- Page 25 Hot key Icon Fn-F7 Fn-F8 Fn-→ Fn- ← Fn-PgUp Fn-PgDn Alt Gr- Euro The Euro symbol If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International or United Kingdom or if you have a keyboard with a European layout, you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard.
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Page 26: Launch Keys
They are designated as Wireless/Bluetooth button, Web browser button, mail button, P1 and P2. The Wireless/Bluetooth button cannot be set by the user. To set the other four launch keys, run the Acer Launch Manager. 1 Getting to know your TravelMate... - Page 27 Note: Press the Wireless/Bluetooth button once to enable the wireless LAN feature, press again to enable the Bluetooth feature. Pressing the button a third time turns on both features, while pressing it the fourth time turns off both features. Description Wireless/Bluetooth Web browser Mail...
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Page 28: Touchpad
Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a PS/2-compatible 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 palmrest provides optimum comfort and support. Note: When using an external USB or serial mouse, you can press Fn-F7 to disable the touchpad. - Page 29 buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the touchpad produces similar results. • Use the center (2) button (top and bottom) to scroll up or down a page. This button mimics your cursor pressing on the right scroll bar of Windows applications.
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Page 30: Storage
Storage This computer supplies you with the following media storage: • High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk • Optical (CD, DVD, or DVD/CD-RW combo) drive • Floppy drive Hard disk The high-capacity hard disk is the answer to your storage needs. This is where your data files and applications are stored. -
Page 31: Playing Dvd Movies
Playing DVD movies When the DVD drive module is installed in the optical drive bay, you can play DVD movies on your computer. Eject the DVD tray and insert a DVD movie disc; then close the DVD tray. Important! When you launch the DVD player for the first time, the program asks you to input the region code. -
Page 32: Floppy Drive
1 Getting to know your TravelMate Floppy drive The internal floppy drive accepts standard 3.5-inch, 1.44 MB diskettes. Ejecting a diskette Eject a diskette by pressing the floppy disk eject button (1) and pull out the diskette (2) to remove it. -
Page 33: Audio
Audio The computer comes with 16-bit high-fidelity AC’97 stereo audio. The built-in dual stereo speakers are easy to access. There are audio ports on the left panel of the computer. See “Left view” on page 4 for more information on external audio devices. Adjusting the volume Adjusting the volume on the computer is easy with a rotary volume control knob on the left panel. -
Page 34: Power Management
1 Getting to know your TravelMate 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, floppy drive, hard disk, peripherals connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video memory. -
Page 35: Moving Around With Your Travelmate
Moving around with your TravelMate This section gives you tips and hints on things to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer. Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: Save your work in progress. Remove any media, diskette or compact disc, from the drive(s). -
Page 36: Taking The Computer Home
you can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing Fn-F4. Then close and latch the display. When you are ready to use the computer again, unlatch and open the display, and press and release the power switch. If the power indicator is off, the computer has entered Hibernation mode and turned off. -
Page 37: What To Bring With You
Caution: Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen What to bring with you Unless you already have some items at home, bring the following items with you: •... -
Page 38: Traveling With The Computer
Traveling with the computer “when you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a client’s office building or traveling locally” Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Make sure that the battery in the computer is charged. - Page 39 • Power cords that are appropriate for the country to which you are traveling • Spare, fully-charged battery packs • Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer • Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to customs officials •...
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Page 40: Securing Your Computer
Securing your computer 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 A security keylock notch located on the right panel of the computer lets you connect a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. -
Page 41: Removing A Password
Type a password. The password may consist of up to eight characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9). Press Enter. Retype the password to verify your first entry and press Enter. After setting the password, the computer automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Present. Removing a password Should you want to remove a password, do the following: Use the cursor up/down keys to highlight a password parameter... - Page 42 1 Getting to know your TravelMate...
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Page 43: Customizing My Computer
2 Customizing my computer... - Page 44 After learning the basics of your TravelMate computer, let’s get acquainted with the advanced features of your computer. In this chapter, you will learn how to add options, upgrade components for better performance, and customize your computer.
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Page 45: Expanding Through Options
Expanding through options Your TravelMate offers you a complete mobile computing experience. Connectivity options Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC. Modem Your computer has a built-in V.90 56Kbps AC’97 Link modem. Warning! This modem port is not compatible with digital phone lines. - Page 46 2 Customizing my computer Start your communications software program. See your communications manual for instructions. Network Your computer has built-in Ethernet/Fast Ethernet capabilities. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the network jack to an network jack or hub. Consult your network administrator for details.
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Page 47: Universal Serial Bus
Universal Serial Bus The Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect and daisy-chain USB peripherals without taking up precious system resources. Your computer has two ports available. -
Page 48: Pc Card Slot
PC Card slot There is one Type II/Type III CardBus PC Card slot found on the left side of the computer. This slot accepts credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer. These cards should have a PC Card logo on them. PC Cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs. -
Page 49: Upgrade Options
Press the slot eject button (1) to pop out the eject button; then press it again (1) to eject the card (2). Upgrade options Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance. - Page 50 Installing memory Follow these steps to install memory: Turn off the computer, unplug the AC adapter (if connected) and remove the battery pack. Then turn the computer over to access its base. Remove the screw from the memory cover (1); slide the cover as shown in the illustration (2);...
- Page 51 Insert the memory module diagonally into the slot (1), then gently press it down until it clicks into place (2). Replace the memory cover and secure it with the screw. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size.
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Page 52: Using System Utilities
Using system utilities Notebook Manager The computer has a built-in system setup program called Notebook Manager. The Windows-based Notebook Manager allows you to set passwords, the startup sequence of the drives, and power management settings. It also shows current hardware configuration. To start the Notebook Manager, press Fn-F2 or follow these steps: Click on Start, Programs, then Notebook Manager. -
Page 53: Bios Utility
you to set the other four Launch Keys. See “Launch Keys” on page 18 for more information. You can access the Launch Manager by clicking on Start, Programs, and then Launch Manager to start the application. BIOS Utility The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (basic input/ouput system). -
Page 54: Navigating The Bios Utility
To activate the BIOS Utility, press F2 during the POST (power-on self- test) while the TravelMate logo is being displayed. Navigating the BIOS Utility These are the menu options: Information, Main, Advanced, Security, Boot and Exit. To enter a menu, highlight the item using the ← → keys. Within a menu, navigate through the BIOS Utility by following these instructions: Press the cursor up/down keys ( ↑... - Page 55 Information The Information screen displays a summary of your computer hardware information. Note: The screen above is for reference only. Actual values may differ. The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Parameter Description CPU Type Describes the type of CPU installed in the system. System Memory Shows the system memory size.
- Page 56 Parameter Description KBC Version Shows the current keyboard controller (KBC) version Serial Number Shows the system serial number. Asset Tag Shows the asset tag number. Number Product Name Shows the official name of the product. Manufacturer Shows the name of the manufacturer. Name UUID Shows the universally unique identifier number.
- Page 57 Parameter Description System Sets the system date. Date Format: MMM DD YYYY (month day year) Boot Sets the display device when the computer starts up. Display Options: Both or Auto QuickBoot Quick Boot allows your computer to skip certain tests at start- Mode up to speed-up the boot process.
- Page 58 Advanced The Advanced screen contains parameters values that define how your computer behaves on startup. The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Parameter Description Legacy Shows the floppy drive information. Diskette A: Primary Shows the hard disk information.
- Page 59 Primary Master The Primary Master sub-menu contains parameters related to the hard disk installed in your computer. Caution: The parameters in this screen are for advanced uses only. Typically, you do not need to change the values in this screen. The default setting of Auto optimizes all the settings in your hard disk drive.
- Page 60 Secondary Master The Secondary Master sub-menu contains parameters related to the optical drive installed in your computer. Caution: The parameters in this screen are for advanced uses only. Typically, you do not need to change the values in this screen. The default setting of Auto optimizes all the settings in your hard disk drive.
- Page 61 I/O Device Configuration The I/O Device Configuration sub-menu contains parameters that are related to your computer hardware. Parameter Description Parallel Port Enables or disables the parallel port. Options: Enabled or Disabled Mode Sets the operation mode of the parallel port. Options: Output only, Bi-direction, EPP, or ECP Base I/O Sets the I/O address of the parallel port.
- Page 62 PCI IRQ Routing The PCI IRQ Routing sub-menu allows you to set the IRQs for PCI devices. Caution: The parameters in this screen are for advanced users only. Typically, you do not need to change the values in this screen because these values are already optimized.
- Page 63 Security The Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use. The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Parameter Description Set Supervisor When set, this password protects the BIOS Utility from Password unauthorized entry.
- Page 64 2 Customizing my computer Boot The Boot menu contains parameter values that determine in what order the bootable devices in your computer start-up. Setting the Boot drive sequence ↑ ↓ Use the cursor up/down keys to select a boot device, then press to change its order.
- Page 65 Exit This menu contains the exit options. Parameter Description Exit Saving Saves your changes and exits the BIOS Utility. Changes Exit Discarding Discards your changes and exits the BIOS Utility. Changes Load Setup Loads default settings for all setup parameters. Defaults Discard Changes Discards your changes.
- Page 66 2 Customizing my computer...
- Page 67 3 Troubleshooting my computer...
- Page 68 This chapter instructs you on 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 by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
- Page 69 Frequently-asked questions The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy answers and solutions are provided for each one. I pressed the power switch and opened the display, but the computer does not start or boot-up.
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Page 70: Troubleshooting My Computer
Image is not full-screen. Make sure that the resolution is set to 1024x768. This is the native resolution of your computer display. Right-click on your Windows desktop and select Properties to bring up the Display Properties dialog box. Then click on the Settings tab to make sure that the resolution is set to the appropriate resolution. - Page 71 The floppy drive cannot access a diskette. Check the following: • Make sure the diskette is properly inserted in the floppy drive. • Make sure the diskette is formatted. • If the diskette is not the cause of the problem, the floppy drive may be dirty.
- Page 72 • Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and that it is turned on. • Depending on your connection (USB or parallel), make sure that the printer cable is connected securely to the appropriate port on your computer and the corresponding port on the printer.
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Page 73: Error Messages
Error messages The following is a list of the messages that the BIOS can display. Most of them occur during POST. Some of them display information about a hardware device, e.g., the amount of memory installed. Others may indicate a problem with a device, such as the way it has been configured. - Page 74 Error Messages *0232 Extended RAM Failed at offset: nnnn 0250 System battery is dead - Replace and run SETUP 0251 System CMOS checksum bad - Default configuration used *0260 System timer error *0270 Real time clock error 0271 Check date and time settings 0280 Previous boot incomplete - Default...
- Page 75 Error Messages 02B2 Incorrect Drive A type - run SETUP 02B3 Incorrect Drive B type - run SETUP 02D0 System cache error - Cache disabled 02F0: CPU ID: *02F4: EISA CMOS not writeable *02F5: DMA Test Failed *02F6: Software NMI Failed *02F7: Fail-Safe Timer NMI Failed...
- Page 76 Error Messages One or more I2O Block Storage Devices were excluded from the Setup Boot Menu Operating system not found *Parity Check 1 nnnn *Parity Check 2 nnnn Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to Setup, <F3> for previous Run the I2O Configuration Utility If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center...
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Page 77: Requesting Service
Place your proof-of- purchase in the flap located inside the front cover of the ITW passport. 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. - Page 78 3 Troubleshooting my computer If there are error messages or beeps reported by your computer, write them down as they appear on the screen (or the number and sequence in the case of beeps). You are required to provide the following information: Name:________________________________________ Address:______________________________________ ______________________________________________...
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Page 79: Appendix A Specifications
Appendix A Specifications... - Page 80 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
- Page 81 Microprocessor • Intel® Mobile Pentium® 4 processor with 512 KB L2 cache - or - Intel® Mobile Celeron® processor with 256 KB L2 cache Memory • Main memory expandable to 1 GB • Dual 144-pin soDIMM socket SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) •...
- Page 82 I/O ports • One type II/type III PC Card slot (CardBus, PCMCIA) • One RJ-11 phone jack (V.90, 56Kbps modem) • One RJ-45 network jack (Ethernet 10/100BaseT) • One DC-in jack (AC adapter) • One parallel port (ECP/EPP compliant) • One external monitor port •...
- Page 83 • AC adapter • 70-Watt • Auto sensing 100~240Vac, 50~60Hz Options • 128-/256-/512-MB memory upgrade module • Additional AC adapter and battery pack • External battery charger • InviLink wireless LAN PC card • Lucent AP-100 802.11b Access Point • Bluetooth module...
- Page 84 Appendix A Specifications...
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Page 85: Appendix B Notices
Appendix B Notices... - Page 86 This appendix lists the general notices of your computer.
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Page 87: Fcc Notice
FCC notice This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. -
Page 88: Modem Notices
Appendix B Notices Notice: Canadian users This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations. Remarque à l’intention des utilisateurs canadiens Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respected toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada. Modem notices This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. -
Page 89: Important Safety Instructions
Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use this product near water. -
Page 90: Laser Compliance Statement
If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition. -
Page 91: Lithium Battery Statement
VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NAR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNADSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING NAR DEKSEL ÅPNESSTIRR IKKE INN I STRÅLEN Lithium battery statement CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. -
Page 92: Year 2000 Compliance Statement
Appendix B Notices Year 2000 compliance statement The TravelMate 230/280 series notebook computer carries the "Hardware NSTL Tested Year 2000 Compliant" logo, which certifies that this model has been tested by NSTL using the YMark2000 test, and has been found to meet NSTL's standards for Year 2000 hardware compliance. -
Page 93: Index
Index AC adapter caring for ===î audio ===OR adjusting the volume ===OR troubleshooting ===SO battery pack caring for ===î charging indicator ===NN BIOS Utility ===QR–===RT Advanced menu áLç=ÇÉîáÅÉ=ÅçåÑáÖìê~íáçå ===RP éÅá=áêè=êçìíáåÖ ===RQ éêáã~êó=ã~ëíÉê ===RN ëÉÅçåÇ~êó=ã~ëíÉê ===RO advanced menu ===RM boot menu ===RS exit menu ===RT main menu ===QU navigating ===QS... - Page 94 indicator lights ===NN ITW. See warranty keyboard ===NP embedded numeric keypad ===NQ hotkeys ===NR lock keys ===NP troubleshooting ===SP Windows keys ===NR LEDs ===NN media access on indicator ===NN memory installing ===QO–===QP upgrading ===QN messages error ===SR modem ===PT mouse troubleshooting ===SP network ===PU Notebook Manager ===QQ...
- Page 95 information ===SV time setting in BIOS Utility ===QU touchpad ===OM hotkey ===NT using ===OM–===ON travel international flights ===PM local trips ===PM troubleshooting ===SM universal serial bus ===PV utility BIOS Setup ===QR–===RT view front ===Q left ===Q rear ===S right ===R volume adjusting ===OR warranty...