Acer TravelMate a-550 Series User Manual Download

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3 Peripherals and options

Remove the screws from the memory door (1), slide the memory
door (2), then lift the memory door (3) to access the memory slot.

Insert the memory module diagonally into the slot (1), then gently
press down until it clicks into place (2).

Replace the memory door and secure it with the screws.

The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total
memory size.

Note:

The system allocates a portion of main memory for video

which can be adjusted in the BIOS Setup Utility. See “System
Devices” on page 67 for details.

TMa550.book Page 48 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 10:57 AM

Summary of Contents for TravelMate a-550 Series

Page 1: ...TravelMate α 550 series User s guide TMa550 book Page i Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 2: ...your computer All correspondence concerning your unit should include the serial number model number and purchase information 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 Model Number _______________________________...

Page 3: ...ur computer Turning your computer on and off To turn on the computer open the display cover and press the power switch above the keyboard To turn the power off do any of the following First off the Just for Starters poster helps you get started with setting up your computer This User s guide introduces you to the many ways your computer can help you be more productive This guide provides clear and...

Page 4: ...o not expose the computer to temperatures below 0 C 32 F or above 50 C 122 F Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture 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 Do no...

Page 5: ...g 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 When cleaning the computer follow these steps 1 Power off the computer and remove the battery pack 2 Disconnect the AC adapter 3 Use a soft cloth moistened with water Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners If any of the foll...

Page 6: ...vi TMa550 book Page vi Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 7: ...ouchpad basics 20 Launch keys 22 Storage 24 Connectivity options 25 Ethernet and LAN 25 Fax data modem 25 Audio 26 Adjusting the volume 26 Using the Audio DJ feature 26 Securing your computer 27 Security notch 27 Passwords 27 2 Operating on battery power 29 Battery pack 31 Battery pack characteristics 31 Installing and removing the battery pack 31 Charging the battery 33 Checking the battery level...

Page 8: ...e 47 Hard disk upgrade 49 4 Moving with your computer 51 Disconnecting from the desktop 53 Moving around 54 Preparing the computer 54 What to bring to short meetings 54 What to bring to long meetings 54 Taking the computer home 55 Preparing the computer 55 What to bring with you 55 Special considerations 55 Setting up a home office 56 Traveling with the computer 57 Preparing the computer 57 What t...

Page 9: ...3 BIOS Setup Utility 64 Main 65 System Devices 67 Security 68 Others 71 Boot 72 Exit 73 6 Troubleshooting 75 Frequently asked questions 77 Error messages 81 Appendix A Specifications 85 Appendix B Notices 91 Index 99 TMa550 book Page ix Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 10: ...x TMa550 book Page x Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 11: ...1 Getting familiar with your computer TMa550 book Page 1 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 12: ...s and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner This chapter gives an in depth tour of the computer s many features TMa550 book Page 2 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 13: ... of your computer After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Just for Starters poster let us show you around your new notebook computer Front view TMa550 book Page 3 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 14: ...h functions like a computer mouse 6 Click buttons left and right The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons 7 Launch keys Buttons for launching frequently used programs See Launch keys on page 22 for more details 8 Status indicators Shows the power and email status 9 Speakers Outputs sound 10 Palmrest Comfortable support area for your hands when you use the computer ...

Page 15: ...DVDs and writes to CD Rs and CD RWs 2 Optical drive eject button Ejects the disc from the optical drive 3 Optical drive emergency eject hole Ejects the disc from the optical drive when the computer is turned off See How do I eject the optical drive tray with the computer turned off on page 78 for more details TMa550 book Page 5 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 16: ...ects an external microphone 3 PC Card eject buttons Eject the selected PC Card from its slot 4 PC Card slots Accepts one Type III or two Type II I PC Card s 5 DC in jack Connects to the AC adapter 6 PS 2 port Connects to a PS 2 compatible device e g PS 2 keyboard mouse keypad 7 USB ports two Connects to USB devices e g USB mouse TMa550 book Page 6 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 17: ...rder 3 Network jack Connects to an Ethernet 10 100 based network 4 Modem jack Conncts a phone line only for models with an internal fax data modem 5 Parallel port Connects to a parallel device e g parallel printer 6 External display port Connects to a display monitor 7 Video out port Connects to a display device with S video input TMa550 book Page 7 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 18: ...hard disk 2 Battery release button Press and hold to release the battery latch 3 Battery release latch Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack 4 Battery bay Houses the computer s battery pack 5 Memory compartment Houses the computer s main memory TMa550 book Page 8 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 19: ...CD and CRT display Multimedia 16 bit high fidelity stereo audio with 3 D sound Built in dual stereo speakers Internal optical drive CD ROM DVD ROM or DVD CD RW combo Audio DJ CD playback feature S video NTSC PAL output Connectivity High speed 56Kbps V 90 fax data software modem Ethernet Fast Ethernet 10 100 Mbps CardBus PC Card slots Universal Serial Bus USB ports IEEE 1394 port Human centric desi...

Page 20: ...amiliar with your computer 10 Ergonomically centered touchpad pointing device Launch keys supports Audio DJ feature Expansion Upgradeable memory and hard disk TMa550 book Page 10 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 21: ... The system sets aside a portion of main memory for video For more details on how to configure this setting see System Devices on page 67 Simultaneous display The computer s large display and multimedia capabilities are great for giving presentations If you prefer you can also connect an external monitor when giving presentations This computer supports simultaneous LCD and CRT display Simultaneous...

Page 22: ...ted near the front of the computer The status LCD displays icons that show the status of the computer and its components Function Icon Description Caps lock Caps Lock is activated Num lock Numeric Lock for embedded keypad is activated Pad lock Pad Lock for embedded keypad is activated Scroll lock Scroll Lock is activated TMa550 book Page 12 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 23: ...ry is fully charged Battery gauge Battery is 75 to 100 percent full Battery is 31 to 74 percent full Battery is 6 to 30 percent full and battery is running low Note Charge the battery as soon as possible Battery is critically low Note Battery gauge icon is blinking Battery temperature is too high Note Save your work and shut down your computer to let the battery cool down Battery is not installed ...

Page 24: ... status indicators Function Icon Description Power Lights when the computer is on Email Lights when incoming email is received To launch your email program and read the incoming email press the email button beside this indicator See Launch keys on page 22 TMa550 book Page 14 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 25: ...e The keys function as a directional keypad including Insert and Delete keys 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 Use this mode when you need to do a lot of numeric data entry A better solution would be to connect an external keypad See External keyboard on page 40 Scroll lock Fn F12 ...

Page 26: ...ck On Pad lock On Number keys on embedded keypad Type numbers in a normal manner Hold Shift while typing numbers Cursor control keys on embedded keypad Hold Shift while using cursor control keys Use cursor control keys in a normal manner Main keyboard keys Hold Fn while typing letters on embedded keypad Also hold down Shift for capital letters Hold Fn while typing letters on embedded keypad Also h...

Page 27: ...ons with this key perform special functions Below are a few examples Tab Activates next Taskbar button E Explores My Computer F Finds Document M Minimizes All Shift M Undoes Minimize All R Displays Run dialog box Application key Opens the application s context menu same as right click TMa550 book Page 17 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 28: ...eys press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination HotKey Function Description Fn F5 Display toggle Switches display output between the display screen external monitor if connected and both the display screen and external monitor Fn Brightness up Increases the screen brightness Fn Brightness down Decreases the screen brightness TMa550 book Page 18 Wednesday Octob...

Page 29: ...mics Located below the keyboard the wide and curved palm rest is ergonomically designed to provide you with a very comfortable place to rest your hands while you type TMa550 book Page 19 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 30: ...he palm rest provides optimum comfort and support Touchpad basics The following teaches you how 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 do selection and execution functions These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse Tapping on the touchpad produces similar res...

Page 31: ...veness Function Left Button Right Button Tap 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 finger to drag the cursor on the touchpad Tap twice at the same speed as double clicking the mouse button and hold finger to the touchpad on the second tap to drag the cursor Access context menu Click once S...

Page 32: ...ding on the set mode these launch keys may be used to launch applications or play back music CDs Note The Audio DJ feature is also available even when the computer is off Item Icon Description 1 Mode switch This sets the launch key mode Slide the switch to the desired mode AP Application mode Lock mode Audio DJ mode TMa550 book Page 22 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 33: ...es a user configurable application Play Pause Audio DJ mode Plays and pauses playback of the music CD 4 Email AP mode Launches your email program Previous track Audio DJ mode Jumps to the previous track on the music CD 5 Internet browser AP mode Launches your Internet browser Next track Audio DJ mode Jumps to the next track on the music CD 6 Volume buttons Decreases or increases the volume Item Ic...

Page 34: ... be upgraded when you need more storage space Consult your dealer for details 3 5 inch floppy drive The floppy drive reads and writes on standard 3 5 inch diskettes High speed optical drive A high speed optical drive CD ROM DVD ROM or DVD CD RW gives you portable multimedia access For the location of these drives see A tour of your computer on page 3 TMa550 book Page 24 Wednesday October 3 2001 10...

Page 35: ...jack on the rear of the computer to a network jack or hub on your network For the location of this port see Rear view on page 7 Fax data modem The computer 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 port connect a phone cable from the modem port to a t...

Page 36: ...ys on page 22 Using the Audio DJ feature The Audio DJ feature allows you to control the playback of music CDs even with the computer turned off Do as follows 1 Slide the launch key mode switch to Audio DJ mode For the location of this switch see Launch keys on page 22 Note If the computer is off the power status indicator lights up 2 Press the optical drive eject button then pull out the drive tra...

Page 37: ...e or locked drawer handle Insert the lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock Some keyless models are available Passwords The user password protects your computer and the BIOS Setup Utility from unauthorized access When set with appropriate options enabled no one can access the computer without entering the correct password See BIOS Setup Utility on page 64 for details on how to set...

Page 38: ...1 Getting familiar with your computer 28 TMa550 book Page 28 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 39: ...2 Operating on battery power TMa550 book Page 29 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 40: ...ttery power This chapter contains the information you need to know to operate the computer on battery power It also includes information on how your computer manages and saves power TMa550 book Page 30 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 41: ...teps 1 Connect the AC adapter to a power source and to the computer and fully recharge the battery 2 Disconnect the adapter to use up the battery before recharging again You only need to do this once or twice with a new battery or with a battery that s been stored without being used for a long time If the computer is to be stored for more than two weeks we suggest you remove the battery pack Warni...

Page 42: ...nd first 2 Press down on the battery pack until you hear the battery latch click in place To remove the battery pack 1 Press and hold the battery release button 2 Slide the battery release latch to unlatch the battery pack 3 Pull up the battery pack to remove it TMa550 book Page 32 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 43: ...ode a fully depleted battery gets fully charged in approximately 4 5 hours Note We suggest that you charge the battery pack before retiring for the day letting it charge overnight before traveling This ensures a fully charged battery for use the next day Checking the battery level Using the Windows battery meter The Windows battery meter indicates the present battery level Simply rest your cursor ...

Page 44: ...tery pack in a cool dry place The recommended storage temperature for battery packs ranges from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius The higher the storage temperature the faster the battery pack self discharges The batteries can be recharged about 400 times when used as directed Excessive recharging decreases battery life Take care of your battery pack and AC adapter See Taking care of your computer on page ...

Page 45: ...files 3 Resume work Power off the computer if you wish to recharge the battery rapidly An extra fully charged battery pack available 1 Save all necessary files 2 Exit the application 3 Power off the computer 4 Replace the battery pack 5 Power on the computer and resume work AC adapter or power outlet not available 1 Save all necessary files 2 Exit the application 3 Power off the computer TMa550 bo...

Page 46: ...iod of time called an inactivity timeout the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy This computer employs a power management scheme that supports ACPI Advanced Configuration and Power Interface which allows for maximum power conservation and maximum performance at the same time ACPI enables Windows to control the amount of power given to each device attached to the...

Page 47: ...3 Peripherals and options TMa550 book Page 37 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 48: ...h ease When connecting peripherals read the manual included with the peripheral for operating instructions You can purchase most of these and other options directly from authorized dealers This chapter also includes sections on how to upgrade key components Key component upgradeability helps keep your computer in step with the latest technology TMa550 book Page 38 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM...

Page 49: ... the computer For the location of this connector see Rear view on page 7 Read the manual for your TV or projector for additional operating instructions Using simultaneous display Your computer takes advantage of Windows multi display capability allowing you to use your computer for presentation purposes So whatever is displayed in your computer will likewise be displayed on the other external disp...

Page 50: ...eypad You can also use a 17 key numeric keypad for number sensitive data entry applications To connect the keypad plug the keypad connector into the PS 2 port or USB port depending on what your device supports For the location of these ports see Right view on page 6 External pointing device This computer accepts either a PS 2 compatible or USB mouse or similar pointing device To use a PS 2 compati...

Page 51: ...nnect it to the USB port For the location of these ports see Rear view on page 7 and Right view on page 6 To operate your printer see your printer manual Note If the printer does not function enter the BIOS Setup Utility and verify that the parallel port is enabled See Others on page 71 for assistance TMa550 book Page 41 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 52: ...u can plug an external microphone into the microphone in jack Amplified speakers or headphones connect to the speaker headphone out jack For the location of these ports see Right view on page 6 TMa550 book Page 42 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 53: ...add on cards for portable computers giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs Popular type II cards include flash memory SRAM fax data modem LAN and SCSI cards CardBus improves on the 16 bit PC Card technology by expanding the data path to 32 bits Note Refer to your card s manual for details on how to install and use the card and its functions Inserting a card Note Insert a t...

Page 54: ...out occupying too many resources USB devices are also plug and play which means you don t need to turn off your computer to connect and use the device Common USB devices include the mouse keyboard and digital cameras You can also daisy chain USB devices via USB hubs For the location of these ports see Right view on page 6 Disconnecting USB devices Before disconnecting a USB device Stop all applica...

Page 55: ...IEEE 1394 repeater For the location of these ports see Rear view on page 7 Disconnecting IEEE 1394 devices Before disconnecting a IEEE 1394 device Stop all applications using the IEEE 1394 device Left click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar and click on the safely remove device operation Now you can unplug the IEEE 1394 device from the computer TMa550 book Page 45 Wednesday October...

Page 56: ...ery coupled with the power management features of your computer supplies you with more power on the go AC adapter The compact AC adapter charges your battery pack and supplies power to your computer You can order a spare AC adapter so you do not need to carry it from the office to your home or destination TMa550 book Page 46 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 57: ...de to perform a key component upgrade Memory upgrade This notebook computer comes with one memory upgrade slot that accepts a soDIMM Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module It supports PC 133 Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory SDRAM Installing memory Follow these steps to install memory 1 Turn off the computer unplug the AC adapter if connected and remove the battery pack Then turn the compu...

Page 58: ...he slot 1 then gently press down until it clicks into place 2 4 Replace the memory door and secure it with the screws The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size Note The system allocates a portion of main memory for video which can be adjusted in the BIOS Setup Utility See System Devices on page 67 for details TMa550 book Page 48 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 59: ...ur hard disk with a higher capacity drive when you need more storage space The computer uses a 9 5mm 2 5 inch Enhanced IDE hard disk Please consult your dealer if you need to upgrade your hard disk TMa550 book Page 49 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 60: ...3 Peripherals and options 50 TMa550 book Page 50 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 61: ...4 Moving with your computer TMa550 book Page 51 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 62: ...This chapter gives you tips and hints on things to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer TMa550 book Page 52 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 63: ...ogress 2 Shut down the operating system 3 Turn off the computer 4 Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter 5 Disconnect the keyboard pointing device printer external monitor and other external devices 6 Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are using one to secure the computer TMa550 book Page 53 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 64: ...mputer for 2 1 2 hours under most circumstances If your meeting is shorter than that you probably do not need to bring anything with you other than the computer What to bring to long meetings If your meeting will last longer than 2 1 2 hours or if your battery is not fully charged you may want to bring the AC adapter with you to plug in your computer in the meeting room If the meeting room does no...

Page 65: ...ms at home bring the following items with you AC adapter and power cord The printed user s manual Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work Minimize the effect of temperature changes by keeping the computer with you If you need to stop for an extended period of time and cannot bring the computer with you leave the computer in the trunk...

Page 66: ...ntly work on your computer at home it may be worthwhile to purchase a second AC adapter for use at home With a second AC adapter you can avoid transporting the extra weight to and from home If you use your computer at home for significant periods of time you might also want to add an external keyboard monitor or mouse TMa550 book Page 56 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 67: ...ring the following items with you AC adapter Spare fully charged battery packs Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer Special considerations In addition to the guidelines for taking the computer home follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling Always take the computer as carry on luggage If possible have the computer inspected by hand The computer c...

Page 68: ...er printer Special considerations Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer In addition these tips are useful when traveling internationally When traveling in another country check that the local AC voltage and the AC adapter power cord specifications are compatible If not purchase a power cord that is compatible with the local AC voltage e g power rating Do not us...

Page 69: ...5 Software TMa550 book Page 59 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 70: ...This chapter discusses the important system utilities bundled with your computer TMa550 book Page 60 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 71: ...es drivers and application software Note To access Windows software applications click on the Start button and select the application folder Then click on the application icon to run the selected application To learn about the software and utility make use of the online help provided by the software TMa550 book Page 61 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 72: ...ge 22 for the location of these keys To configure Easy Button double click on its icon on the taskbar Pressing on a launch key that has not been configured will also allow you to configure Easy Button To see other Easy Button options right click on the Easy Button icon on the taskbar TMa550 book Page 62 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 73: ...l status indicator lights up You can also set a notify message to appear or a sound to play when you receive incoming email To configure E Mail Detector double click on its icon on the taskbar To see other E Mail Detector options right click on the E Mail Detector icon on the taskbar TMa550 book Page 63 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 74: ...ns To choose a menu use the cursor left right keys To choose a parameter use the cursor up down keys To change the value of a parameter press F5 or F6 Note You can change the value of a parameter if it is enclosed in square brackets A plus sign indicates the item has sub items Press Enter to expand this item Item Specific Help System Time System Date Floppy Drive Hard Disk Quiet Boot Power on disp...

Page 75: ...n screen displays a summary of your computer hardware information and also includes basic setup parameters Note The screen above is for reference only Actual values may differ Item Specific Help System Time System Date Floppy Drive Hard Disk Quiet Boot Power on display LCD Display stretch System Memory Extended Memory BIOS Ver 11 21 00 09 11 2001 1 44MB 3 IBM DJSA 220 PM Enabled Auto Selected Enab...

Page 76: ...ive Shows floppy drive type information Hard Disk Shows the hard disk model Quiet Boot Determines the way the system boots up Options Enabled or Disabled Power on display Determines the display device on startup Options Auto Selected or Simultaneous LCD Display stretch Specifies whether or not to expand the image to fill the screen Options Enabled or Disabled System Memory Shows the amount of syst...

Page 77: ...he primary or secondary IDE controller or both Options Both Primary or Disabled FDD Controller Enables or disables the floppy drive controller Options Enabled or Disabled Parallel Port Enables or disables the parallel port Options Enabled or Disabled IRQ Sets the interrupt request of the parallel port Options IRQ 7 or IRQ 5 Item Specific Help Pointing Device Ext Keyboard Fn IDE Controller FDD Cont...

Page 78: ...This parameter is enabled only if Mode is set to ECP or Bi directional Options 378 278 or 3BC DMA Channel Sets a DMA channel for the printer to operate in ECP mode This parameter is enabled only if Mode is set to ECP Options 3 or 1 VGA Frame Buffer Size Specifies the amount of main memory to allocate for VGA Options 16 Mb 32 Mb or 8 Mb Parameter Description Item Specific Help User Password Set Use...

Page 79: ...nter new password field The password may consist of up to 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 Retype the password in the Confirm new password field Parameter Description User Password Shows the setting of the user password Options Clear or Set Set User Password Press Enter to set the user p...

Page 80: ...he Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields The computer then sets the User Password parameter to Clear 4 When you are done press F10 to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility Changing a password Follow these steps 1 Use the and keys to highlight the Set User Password parameter and press the Enter key The Set Password box appears 2 Type the current password in the Enter Current...

Page 81: ...termines whether or not the system will alarm when the battery power is low Options Enabled or Disabled Panel Close Alarm Determines whether or not the system will alarm when the display cover is closed Options Disabled or Enabled System Beep Determines whether or not the system will emit a beep on boot up Options Enabled or Disabled Item Specific Help Low Battery Alarm Panel Close Alarm System Be...

Page 82: ...boot from the removable device e g floppy drive If unsuccessful the system goes to the next device in the list Hard Drive The computer attempts to boot from the hard disk If unsuccessful the system goes to the next device in the list CD ROM DVD Drive The computer attempts to boot from the CD or DVD drive looks for a bootable CD or DVD Parameter Description Item Specific Help Removable Devices Hard...

Page 83: ...e BIOS Setup Utility same as F10 Exit Discarding Changes Discards changes made and exits the BIOS Setup Utility Load Setup Defaults Loads default settings for all parameters same as F9 Discard Changes Discards changes made Save Changes Saves changes made Main System Devices Security Others Boot Exit Item Specific Help Exit Saving Changes Exit Discarding Changes Discard Changes Save Changes Load Se...

Page 84: ...5 Software 74 TMa550 book Page 74 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 85: ...6 Troubleshooting TMa550 book Page 75 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 86: ...alling a technician if a problem occurs Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer Do not attempt to open and service the computer by yourself Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance TMa550 book Page 76 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 87: ...stem files may be damaged or missing Insert the startup disk you created during Windows setup into the floppy drive and press Ctrl Alt Del to restart the system This will diagnose your system and make necessary fixes Nothing appears on the screen The computer s power management system automatically blanks the screen to save power Press any key to turn the display back on If pressing a key does not...

Page 88: ...l speakers automatically turn off External microphone does not work Check the following Make sure the external microphone is connected to the microphone in jack on the computer If you cannot hear playback the speakers may be muted How do I eject the optical drive tray with the computer turned off There is a emergency eject hole on the optical drive Simply insert the tip of a pen or paperclip and p...

Page 89: ... dirty Clean it using a drive cleaning kit Follow the instructions included with the kit The printer does not work Check the following Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and it is turned on Depending on your printer connection USB or parallel make sure the printer cable is connected securely to the appropriate ports on both the computer and the printer If you use a parallel ...

Page 90: ...ery the system only lets you charge the battery when its capacity falls below 95 However it is recommended that you bring an extra battery and let the battery in the system use up its power before charging it TMa550 book Page 80 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 91: ...authorized service center 0212 Keyboard Controller Failed Keyboard controller test failed Write down the message and contact your dealer or an authorized service center 0220 Monitor type does not match CMOS Run SETUP Display device mismatch Enter the BIOS Setup Utility and verify the parameters try loading the default settings then save and restart your computer 0230 Shadow Ram Failed at offset nn...

Page 92: ...Write down the message and contact your dealer or an authorized service center 0271 Check date and time settings Date and time are out of range and was reset Enter the BIOS Setup Utility and set the correct date and time 0280 Previous boot incomplete Default configuration used Previous boot up was not completed successfully Enter the BIOS Setup Utility and verify the parameters try loading the def...

Page 93: ...ge and contact your dealer or an authorized service center 02F7 Fail Safe Timer NMI Failed Fail safe timer takes too long Write down the message and contact your dealer or an authorized service center device Address Conflict Specific device has an address conflict Enter the BIOS Setup Utility and verify the parameters try loading the default settings then save and restart your computer Failing Bit...

Page 94: ...ystem not found Operating system cannot be found on the boot device Enter the BIOS Setup Utility and verify the hard disk floppy drive and boot parameters try loading the default settings then save and restart your computer If the problem persists you may need to recover your hard disk or reinstall the operating system Parity Check 1 nnnn Parity error found on system bus Write down the message and...

Page 95: ...Appendix A Specifications TMa550 book Page 85 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 96: ...This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer TMa550 book Page 86 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 97: ...ppy drive 3 5 1 44 MB One E IDE hard disk 2 5 9 5mm UltraDMA 100 One internal optical drive Display and video 14 1 Thin Film Transistor TFT liquid crystal display LCD displaying 16 7 million colors at 1024x768 eXtended Graphics Array XGA resolution or 15 0 TFT LCD displaying 16 7 million colors at 1400x1050 Super eXtended Graphics Array Plus SXGA resolution AGP 4X support Video memory allocation f...

Page 98: ...modem jack V 90 56K One RJ 45 network jack Ethernet 10 100 One DC in jack One parallel port ECP EPP One external monitor port One keyboard mouse port PS 2 One speaker headphone out jack 3 5mm minijack One microphone in jack 3 5mm minijack One video out jack S video Two Universal Serial Bus USB ports One IEEE 1394 port Weight and dimensions 14 1 inch model 3 11 kg 6 86 lbs 322 W x 277 D x 37 5 43 5...

Page 99: ...ing 0 10 000 ft Non operating 0 40 000 ft Operating system Microsoft Windows Power Battery pack 57 WattHour Li Ion battery pack 3 4 5 hours charge time AC adapter 60 Watt Auto sensing 100 240Vac 50 60Hz Options 128 256 512 MB SDRAM memory upgrade module Additional AC adapter Additional battery pack TMa550 book Page 89 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 100: ...Appendix A Specifications 90 TMa550 book Page 90 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 101: ...Appendix B Notices TMa550 book Page 91 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 102: ...This appendix lists the general notices for your computer TMa550 book Page 92 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

Page 103: ... into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected Consult the dealer or an experienced radio television technician for help Notice Shielded cables All connections to other computing devices must be made using shielded cables to maintain compliance with FCC regulations Notice Peripheral devices Only peripherals input output devices terminals printers etc certified ...

Page 104: ...ssible You will also be informed of your right to file a complaint with the FCC Your telephone company may make changes in its facilities equipment operations or procedures that could affect the proper functioning of your equipment If they do you will be notified in advance to give you an opportunity to maintain uninterrupted telephone service If this equipment should fail to operate properly disc...

Page 105: ...ng to rest on the power cord Do not locate this product where persons will walk on the cord 8 If an extension cord is used with this product make sure that the total ampere rating of the equipment plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the extension cord ampere rating Also make sure that the total rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the fuse rating 9 Never ...

Page 106: ...proved or its equivalent Maximum length is 15 feet 4 6 meters Laser compliance statement The CD or DVD drive used with this computer is a laser product The CD or DVD drive s classification label shown below is located on the drive CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT CAUTION INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1 PRODUIT LASERATTENTION RADIATION DU FAISCEAU LASER ...

Page 107: ...deras av apparattillverkaren Kassera anvãnt batteri enligt fabrikantens instruktion VAROITUS Päristo voi räjähtää jos se on virheellisesti asennettu Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppiin Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti VORSICHT Explosionsgefahr bei unsachgemäßen Austausch der Batterie Ersatz nur durch denselben oder einem vom Hersteller empfohle...

Page 108: ... is protected by method claims of certain U S patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohib...

Page 109: ...ck 15 on indicator 12 care AC adapter iv battery pack v computer iv CD troubleshooting 79 charging checking level 33 modes 33 cleaning computer v computer bringing to meetings 54 caring for iv cleaning v disconnecting 53 features 9 moving around 54 on indicator 14 security 27 setting up a home office 56 taking home 55 traveling internationally 58 traveling on local trips 57 turning off iii connect...

Page 110: ...lot 8 upgrading 47 messages error 81 microphone troubleshooting 78 modem 25 setting location 79 monitor connecting 39 mouse connecting externally 40 N notice DVD copyright protection 98 year 2000 compliance 97 num lock 15 on indicator 12 numeric keypad embedded 16 O optical drive 24 options hard disk upgrade 49 memory upgrade 47 PC Cards 43 spare AC adapter 46 spare battery 46 P pad lock 15 palm r...

Page 111: ...12 security keylock 7 27 password 27 service when to call v simultaneous display 39 software bundled 61 speakers troubleshooting 78 status indicators 12 status LCD 4 12 storage 24 floppy drive 24 hard disk 24 optical drive 24 s video connecting 39 T time setting in BIOS Utility 66 touchpad 20 using 20 21 travel international flights 58 local trips 57 U USB connecting 44 disconnecting 44 45 utility...

Page 112: ...102 TMa550 book Page 102 Wednesday October 3 2001 10 57 AM ...

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Acer TravelMate a-550 Series, User Manual

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Summary of Contents for TravelMate a-550 Series

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