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Extensa 2900 Series
User's Guide

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Summary of Contents for Acer Extensa 2900D

  • Page 1 Extensa 2900 Series User’s Guide...
  • Page 2 No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated. Extensa 2900 Series Notebook Computer...
  • Page 3: First Things First

    You are advised to read it thoroughly and keep it handy for future reference. For more information on Acer’s products, services, and support, please visit the web site: http://www.acer.com. Basic care and tips for using your computer...
  • Page 4: Taking Care Of Your Computer

    Note: If you are unable to shut down the computer in the usual way, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds. You should then wait at least two seconds before turning the computer on again. Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.
  • Page 5: Taking Care Of Your Battery Pack

    Taking care of your battery pack It is also important that you look after your computer's battery pack. • Use the correct battery model for your computer. Do not use other kinds of batteries. • Turn the power off before removing or replacing the battery. •...
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    First things first Your guides Basic care and tips for using your computer Getting familiar with your computer A tour of your computer Front open view Front view Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Features Indicators Lock keys Embedded keypad Windows keys Hot keys...
  • Page 8 Power management Peripherals and options External display devices External input devices External keyboard External keypad External pointing device USB devices IEEE 1394 Port Printer Audio devices Expansion devices PC Card Miscellaneous options Battery pack AC adapter Key component upgrades Memory upgrade Swapping AcerMedia drive modules Moving with your computer Disconnecting from the desktop...
  • Page 9 Software System software Launch Manager BIOS Setup Utility Troubleshooting Frequently asked questions Requesting service International Traveler’s Warranty (ITW) Before you call Appendix A Specifications Appendix B Notices Index...
  • Page 11: Getting Familiar With Your Computer

    Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 12 Your Extensa 2900 series notebook computer combines solid performance, versatility, multimedia capabilities and portability with a stylish design. Increase your productivity by working wherever you are. This chapter provides an in-depth "tour" of your computer's features.
  • Page 13: A Tour Of Your Computer

    A tour of your computer After setting up your new Extensa notebook computer, as illustrated in Just for starters… poster, take a few minutes to explore the unit. Front open view Item Display screen Power button Description Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), displays computer output.
  • Page 14: Front View

    Item Touchpad Click buttons (left and right) Palmrest Keyboard Status indicators Launch keys Front view Item Latch AcerMedia Bay Getting familiar with your computer Description Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a computer mouse. The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons.
  • Page 15: Left View

    Left view Item Infrared port PC Card slot Wireless Communication switch Stereo speaker Headphone/ Speaker/ Line-out jack Microphone/line-in jack Description Interfaces with infrared devices (e.g., infrared printer, IR-aware computer). Accepts one Type II 16-bit PC Card or 32- bit CardBus PC Card. Enables and disables Wireless communication devices.
  • Page 16: Right View

    Item One USB 2.0 port Right view Item Stereo speaker Ventilation slot DC-in jack Getting familiar with your computer Description Connects to Universal Serial Bus devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). Description Outputs sound. Houses the computer's hard disk. Enables the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use.
  • Page 17: Rear View

    Rear view Item IEEE 1394 port S-video Ethernet port Modem port Two USB 2.0 ports External display port Description Connects to IEEE 1394 devices. Connects to a television or display device with S-video input. Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based network. Connects to a phone line.
  • Page 18: Bottom View

    Item Parallel port Security keylock Bottom view Item RAM slot AcerMedia bay release latch Getting familiar with your computer Description Connects to a parallel device (e.g., parallel printer). Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. Description The slot that houses the computer's main memory.
  • Page 19 Item AcerMedia bay Battery bay Battery release latch Hard disk bay Cooling fan Description Houses an AcerMedia drive module. Houses the computer's battery pack. Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack. Houses the computer's hard disk (secured by a screw). Helps keep the computer cool.
  • Page 20: Features

    Features Performance Intel® Pentium® M Processor at 1.3 ~1.7 GHz or higher • Intel 855PM chipset • Memory upgradeable up to 2 GB with 2 slots • Internal removable optical drive (AcerMedia bay) • High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE hard disk • Li-ion main battery pack •...
  • Page 21 Connectivity High-speed fax/data modem port • Ethernet/Fast Ethernet port • Fast infrared wireless communication • Three USB 2.0 ports (two in rear and one on left) • IEEE 1394 port • InviLink 802.11b/g wireless LAN (manufacturing optional) • • Bluetooth ready (manufacturing optional) Human-centric design •...
  • Page 22: Indicators

    Indicators Your computer provides an array of six indicators located below the display screen, and three on the front of the computer. Icon Function Scroll Lock Caps Lock Pad Lock Getting familiar with your computer Description Lights when Hard Disk Drive is activated. Lights when Optical Disk Drive is activated.
  • Page 23 Icon Function Num Lock Wireless/ Bluetooth indicator Power Battery Description Lights when Num Lock is activated. Orange indicates that wireless LAN is enabled; blue indicates that Bluetooth (optional) is enabled; dark purple indicates that both wireless LAN and Bluetooth are enabled.
  • Page 24: Lock Keys

    Keyboard The full-sized keyboard includes an embedded numeric keypad, sepa- rate cursor keys, two Windows keys and twelve function keys. Lock keys The keyboard has four 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 uppercase.
  • Page 25: Embedded Keypad

    Embedded keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the right-hand- side of the keycaps. Desired access Num lock on Number keys on Type numbers in a normal embedded keypad manner.
  • Page 26: Windows Keys

    Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Windows logo Start button. Combinations with this key perform shortcut functions. Below are a few examples: + Tab (Activates next taskbar button) + E (Explores My Computer) + F (Finds Document) + M (Minimizes All) Shift + + R (Displays the Run...
  • Page 27: Hot Keys

    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 BIOS Utility. To activate hot keys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hot key combination. Hot key Icon Function...
  • Page 28 Hot key Icon Function Fn-PgDn Volume down Fn-↑ Brightness up Fn-↓ Brightness down Getting familiar with your computer Description Decreases the speaker volume. Increases the screen brightness. Decreases the screen brightness.
  • Page 29: The Euro Symbol

    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. Note for US keyboard users: The keyboard layout is set when you first set up Windows.
  • Page 30 International and click on OK. Click on OK. To type the Euro symbol: Locate the Euro symbol on your keyboard. Open a text editor or word processor. Hold Alt Gr and press the Euro symbol. Note: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol. Please refer to www.microsoft.com/typography/faq/faq12.htm for more information.
  • Page 31: Touchpad

    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 palmrest provides optimum comfort and support. Touchpad basics The following items teach you how to use the touchpad: •...
  • Page 32 Function Left Button Select Click once. Drag Click and hold. Then, slide your finger across the touchpad to drag the cursor over the selection. Access content menu Note: Keep your fingers, as well as the surface of the touchpad, clean and dry. The touchpad is sensitive to your finger movements: the lighter your touch, the better the response.
  • Page 33: Launch Keys

    Launch keys Located above the keyboard are three buttons. The most-left button is the power button. To the right of the power button are the two launch keys. They are designated as the programmable buttons (P1 and P2). Launch Key Default Application User-programmable.
  • Page 34: Storage

    Storage This computer supplies you with the following media storage: High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk • Hot-Swappable AcerMedia drive • Hard disk The high-capacity hard disk is the answer to your storage needs. This is where your programs and data are stored. AcerMedia bay The hot-swappable AcerMedia bay accepts a wide variety of optional media drive modules for use with your computer.
  • Page 35: Ejecting The Optical Drive Tray

    Ejecting the optical drive tray To eject the optical drive tray: • With the computer turned on, press the optical drive eject button. • The tray will be released, and partially popped open. • Gently pull the tray out to its limit. To load an optical disc: •...
  • Page 36: Connectivity Options

    Getting familiar with your computer Connectivity options Your computer has built-in connectivity options, enabling you to hook up to a network or communicate over a phone line. Ethernet and LAN The integrated network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based (10/100 BASE-T) network.
  • Page 37: Fax/Data Modem

    Fax/Data modem Your computer features a built-in fax/data modem, enabling you to communicate over a phone line. This means that you can connect to the Internet via a dialup account with an ISP, log in to your network from a remote location, or send faxes. Warning: Your modem is not compatible with digital phone lines.
  • Page 38: Audio

    Getting familiar with your computer Audio The computer comes with 16-bit high-fidelity AC’97 stereo audio, and dual stereo speakers. Adjusting the volume Adjusting the volume on the computer is as easy as pressing some but- tons. See “Hot keys” on page 17 for more informations on adjusting the speaker volume.
  • Page 39: Securing Your Computer

    Securing your computer Your computer features hardware and software security solutions, in the form of a slot for a Kensington lock and a password facility. Security slot A slot for a Kensington slot enables you to physically protect your computer from theft. Use this feature as follows: •...
  • Page 40 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 41: Operating On Battery Power

    Operating on battery power...
  • Page 42 Your Extensa 2900 series notebook computer operates on battery or AC power. This chapter provides information for operating on battery power, as well as information on how your computer manages and saves power.
  • Page 43: Battery Pack

    Battery pack The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between charges. Battery pack characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: • Employs current battery technology standards. • Delivers a battery-low warning. The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the mains power supply.
  • Page 44: Installing And Removing The Battery Pack

    Follow these steps again until the battery has been charged and discharged three times. Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't been used for a long time. If the computer is to be stored for more than two weeks, you are advised to remove the battery pack from the unit.
  • Page 45: Charging The Battery

    To remove a battery pack: Slide the battery release latch to release the battery. Pull the battery from the battery bay. Charging the battery To charge the battery, first make sure that it is correctly installed in the battery bay. Plug the AC adapter into the computer, and connect to a mains power outlet.
  • Page 46: Battery-Low Warning

    Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the Windows Power Meter. Warning: Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears. Data will be lost if the battery to become fully depleted and the computer shuts down. When the battery-low warning appears, the recommended course of action depends on your situation: Situation...
  • Page 47: Power Management

    Power management Your computer features a built-in power management unit that constantly monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, touchpad/mouse, hard disk drive, optical drive, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (the settings are controlled in Windows Power Management), the computer turns off some, or all, of these devices in order to conserve power.
  • Page 48 Operating on battery power...
  • Page 49: Peripherals And Options

    Peripherals and options...
  • Page 50 Your Extensa 2900 series notebook computer offers good expansion capabilities. This chapter provides information on connecting peripherals to expand your system. It also describes how to upgrade key components to enhance system performance and keep your computer in step with the latest technology. You are advised to consult your dealer for information on peripherals.
  • Page 51: External Display Devices

    External display devices You can connect an external (VGA) monitor or projector to your computer's external display port. Use the Fn + F5 hot key to toggle the display setting between the computer's LCD panel and the external display device. See “Hot keys” on page 17 for more information.
  • Page 52: Usb Devices

    Peripherals and options USB devices Your computer features three Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 ports for connecting a range of USB peripherals. See “External input devices” on page 41, and “Printer” on page 44 for information on connecting a USB keyboard, keypad, mouse or printer. Other common USB devices include digital cameras, scanners, and external storage devices.
  • Page 53: Ieee 1394 Port

    IEEE 1394 Port The computer’s IEEE 1394 port allows you to connect to an IEEE 1394 supported device like a digital video camera. See your video or digital camera’s documentation for details.
  • Page 54: Printer

    Printer Your computer supports both parallel and USB printers. Refer to the printer's manual for information on: • Setting up the hardware • Installing the necessary drivers in Windows • Operating instructions To use a USB printer, simply connect the device to one of your computer's USB ports, and then wait for Windows to find the new hardware.
  • Page 55: Expansion Devices

    Expansion devices PC Card The Type II CardBus PC Card slot found on the left side of the computer 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 56: Miscellaneous Options

    To remove a PC Card: Close the application that is using the PC Card. Double click on the PC Card icon on the taskbar, and then select the option to safely remove the card. Wait for the message telling you that it is now safe to remove the card. Press the PC Card eject button to partially eject the card (a).
  • Page 57: Key Component Upgrades

    Key component upgrades Your computer is designed to deliver solid performance. However, in time, you might find that your applications demand even more computing power. For this reason, you are able to upgrade key components. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.
  • Page 58: Swapping Acermedia Drive Modules

    Insert the memory module diagonally in the slot (a), and then press down gently until it clicks in place (b). Replace the memory compartment door, and fasten the screw. The computer automatically detects the new module and reconfigures the memory. Swapping AcerMedia drive modules Note: The hard disk drive module is not hot-swappable.
  • Page 59 illustration (a). Then remove the optical drive from the AcerMedia bay (b). Then insert the optional AcerMedia module into the AcerMedia bay until the it click into place.
  • Page 60 Peripherals and options...
  • Page 61: Moving With Your Computer

    Moving with your computer...
  • Page 62 Your Extensa 2900 series notebook computer is ideal for taking with you when you move around. This chapter provides tips on things to consider when traveling with your computer.
  • Page 63: Disconnecting From The Desktop

    Disconnecting from the desktop Before moving with your computer, you must turn it off and disconnect all peripherals: Save your work and close all applications. Shut down Windows to turn off your computer. Unplug the AC adapter from the mains outlet, and then disconnect it from the computer.
  • Page 64: Moving Around

    Moving with your computer Moving around Sometimes you might need to move your computer a short distance. For example, you might need to move from your office desk to a meeting room. In these situations, you don't have to shut down the operating system.
  • Page 65: Taking The Computer Home

    Taking the computer home When you move between your office and home you will need to prepare your computer for the short trip. Preparing the computer After disconnecting your computer from the desktop, prepare the unit as follows: Remove all media from the drives. Loaded media can damage the drive heads during transit.
  • Page 66: Setting Up A Home Office

    Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, as well as at work, it may be worthwhile purchasing a second AC adapter. This will allow you to travel lighter, as you can keep an AC adapter in each location. You might also find it worthwhile keeping a second set of peripherals at home, such as a keyboard, keypad, mouse and printer.
  • Page 67: Traveling Internationally With Your Computer

    Traveling internationally with your computer Occasionally you might need to travel between countries with your computer. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would for normal travel. Remember to take special precautions for air travel. What to take with you It is advisable to take the following items with you: •...
  • Page 68 Moving with your computer...
  • Page 69: Software

    Software...
  • Page 70 Your Extensa 2900 series notebook computer includes system utilities. This chapter provides information on the important software that comes with your computer.
  • Page 71: System Software

    System software Your computer comes preloaded with the following software: • Microsoft® Windows® operating system • Hardware BIOS Setup Utility • System utilities, drivers and application software Note: To run software applications in Windows, first click on the Start button. Next, select the appropriate folder, and then click on the application icon.
  • Page 72: Bios Setup Utility

    Software BIOS Setup Utility The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) contains important information used to configure the hardware and system software settings. Your computer reads the BIOS when it first starts up, before it loads the operating system. Your computer's BIOS includes a built-in setup utility called Phoenix Software System Configuration Utility (SCU).
  • Page 73: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting...
  • Page 74 This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Please read it before calling a technician. Solutions to more serious problems may require opening the computer. Do not attempt to open and service the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
  • Page 75: Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently asked questions This section suggests solutions to commonly encountered problems. I press the power button, but my computer does not start or boot-up. Look at the Power status indicator. If it is not lit, no power is being delivered to the computer. Check the following: •...
  • Page 76 There is no audio coming from my computer. 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 on the icon and deselect the Mute option. •...
  • Page 77 The printer does not work. Check the following: • Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and it is turned on. • Check that the cable is properly connected to the appropriate ports on both the computer and the printer. •...
  • Page 78: 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 79: Appendix A Specifications

    Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 80 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
  • Page 81 Microprocessor • Intel® Pentium® M Processor at 1.3~1.7 GHz or higher Memory Main memory expandable up to 2 GB • Two DDR DIMM slots • Support 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB & 1GB DDR SDRAM modules • • 512 KB flash ROM BIOS Data storage One high-capacity, Enhanced-IDE hard disk •...
  • Page 82 Audio 16-bit AC’97 stereo audio • Dual speakers • • Separate audio ports for headphone-out, and line-in/microphone- in devices Keyboard and pointing device 85-/86-key Windows keyboard • • Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device I/O ports One Type II CardBus PC Card slot •...
  • Page 83 Environment • Temperature: Operating: 5°C ~ 35°C Non-operating: -20°C ~ 65°C • Humidity (non-condensing): Operating: 20% ~ 80% RH Non-operating: 20% ~ 80% RH Operating system ACPI support • DMI 2.0-compliant • • Microsoft Windows operating system Power Battery pack •...
  • Page 84 Appendix A Specifications...
  • Page 85: Appendix B Notices

    Appendix B Notices...
  • Page 86 This appendix lists the general notices of your computer.
  • 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

    The following local Manufacturer/Importer is responsible for this declaration: Product Name: Notebook Personal Computer Model: Extensa 2900, CL51 Name of Responsible Party: Acer America Corporation Address of Responsible Party: 2641 Orchard Parkway, San Jose, CA 95134, U.S.A. Contact Person: Young Kim Phone No.: 408-922-2909...
  • Page 89: Declaration Of Conformity

    Declaration of Conformity Hereby, Acer, declares that this Extensa 2900 series is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. (Please visit http://global.acer.com/products/notebook/reg-nb/ for complete documents.)
  • Page 90: Important Safety Instructions

    Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully. Save them 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 91: Laser Compliance Statement

    If the product has been dropped or the case has been damaged. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service. Replace the battery with the same type as the product's battery we recommend. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly.
  • Page 92: Lithium Battery Statement

    Appendix B Notices Lithium battery statement The Extensa 2900 series uses the lithium battery, BATCL50L or BATCL50L4. 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 93: Regulatory Notice

    Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. Apparatus Claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,631,603, 4,577,216, 4,819,098, 4,907,093 and 6,516,132 licensed for limited viewing uses only. Note: Below regulatory information is for models with wireless LAN and/or Bluetooth only.
  • Page 94 99/5/EC Radio & Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (R&TTE) Directive Art.3.1a) EN 60950 • Art.3.1b) EN 301 489 -1/-17 • Art.3.2) EN 300 328-2 • Art.3.2) EN 301 893 • * The applicable number varies according to the different Notified Body ID No. applied to the wireless module installed in this product.
  • Page 95 Nevertheless, the wireless module shall be used in such a manner that the potential for human contact during normal operation is minimized. The transmitter and the antenna are permanently installed inside the notebook, and are specific for this model (not for generic computer). For compliance with FCC radiation exposure limits, it should be operated with a separation distance of 20cm or more between the antenna and the body of user, and the antenna should not be operated next to a nearby person.
  • Page 96: Appendix B Notices

    --------------------------- Easy Lai/ Director Qualification Center Product Assurance, Acer Inc. Appendix B Notices Acer Incorporated 8F, 88, Sec. 1, Hsin Tai Wu Rd., Hsichih Taipei Hsien 221, Taiwan.
  • Page 97: Index

    Index AcerMedia drive audio adjusting the volume connecting externally troubleshooting battery pack battery-low warning caring for characteristics charging checking charge level installing low conditions maximizing life optimizing removing using the first time BIOS Setup Utility entering brightness hot keys caps lock on indicator care battery pack...
  • Page 98 keypad connecting externally launch keys left view memory installing 47– 48 upgrading microphone troubleshooting modem setting location mouse connecting externally notice DVD copyright protection num lock on indicator options memory upgrade PC Cards spare AC adapter spare battery PC Card inserting removing power management...

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