Computer Basics -
9
Your Computer’s Drives
The drives described below are commonly used on Gateway computers. However, this does not mean that they are
present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these drives. To view documentation specific
to the model you have purchased, please check
Gateway InfoCentre
.
Memory Card Reader
Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and
mobile phones. Selected computers include an “all-in-one” memory card reader that
allows you to read and write the most common types, such as CF (Compact Flash®),
IBM Microdrive™, SM (Smart Media™), MMC (Multi Media Card™), SD/SDHC Card, xD-
Picture Card™ or MS (Memory Stick®).
Removing a card from an External Card Reader
1. Click on the
Safely Remove Hardware
icon in the
Notification
Area
(next to the clock).
2. Click on
Eject SD Card
(or the name of the
device).
3. Wait until a
Safe to Remove Hardware
message is displayed.
4. Remove the card.
Optical Drives
An optical drive is able to read from (or write to) a variety of CD or DVD discs (e.g. Audio CD, CD-ROM, DVD).
Note:
Small computers may omit larger devices such as optical drives. If your computer
does not feature an optical drive and you wish to access files or install a program from an
optical disc, you will need additional equipment; you may use either an external optical
drive, or a computer with an optical drive and a network connection (i.e. add the optical
drive as a resource that may be used over a network).
Read-only (ROM) drives
Some optical drives are only able to read information from a disc, they cannot be used to store new information.
These drives can be used to watch films, install programs and read data such as photos or music.
Recordable (R) or Re-Writable (RW) Drives
In addition to reading data from compatible discs, the optical drive(s) provided with your computer may be able to
write (or 'burn') information to appropriate discs. You can use these drives to duplicate your CDs, create your own
music compilations, digital photo albums or keep a safe copy of your valuable data. Disc recording software must
be used to write information to recordable discs.
Note:
Before copying a CD, make sure that its content is not protected by Trademarks and Copyrights, and
that you are authorized to replicate it. In most countries you are allowed to make an archival backup of
software or copy music for your own personal use.
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