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This revision: October 2015 Sign up for an Acer ID and enjoy great benefits Open the Acer Portal app to sign up for an Acer ID or sign in if you already have an Acer ID. There are three great reasons for you to get an Acer ID: •...
Connecting with a cable....... 33 Universal Serial Bus (USB) Built-in network feature ......33 Thunderbolt 3 port Connecting to a cellular network... 34 Displays............63 Acer Bluelight Shield HDMI PredatorSense Frequently asked questions The PredatorSense main screen ... 36 Requesting service ......... 68 Assign an action to a hotkey....
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4 - Table of contents How do I set the alarm? ......72 Internet and online security Where are my apps?......... 73 First steps on the net ......78 What is a Microsoft ID (account)? ... 74 Protecting your computer ..... 78 How do I check for Windows Choose an Internet Service Provider 78 updates? ............
We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer notebook, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup Guide (or Setup Poster) helps you get started with setting up your computer.
6 - First things first Basic care and tips for using your computer Turning your computer off To turn the power off, do any of the following: • Use the Windows shutdown command: Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button, select Power > Shut down.
3.Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. If your computer is dropped or visibly damaged, or does not work normally, please contact your nearest authorized Acer service center. For more information, please See Frequently asked questions on page 66.
8 - Your Predator notebook tour O U R R E D A T O R N O T E B O O K T O U R After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Setup Guide, let us show you around your new Predator computer. Screen view Icon Item Description...
Your Predator notebook tour - 9 Keyboard view Icon Item Description Indicates the computer’s battery status. Charging: The light shows Battery amber when the battery is indicator charging. Fully charged: The light shows red when plugged in. Power Indicates the computer’s power indicator status.
10 - Your Predator notebook tour Icon Item Description For entering data into your computer. Keyboard See Using the keyboard on page 15. Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device. The left and right buttons Click buttons function like the left and right (left and right) mouse buttons.
Your Predator notebook tour - 11 Icon Item Description Internal optical drive; accepts Optical drive CDs or DVDs. Optical drive Ejects the optical disk from the eject button drive. Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer is turned off. Emergency Carefully insert a straightened eject hole...
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12 - Your Predator notebook tour Icon Item Description Supports high-definition digital HDMI port video connections. External Connects to a display device display using the high-definition (DisplayPort) DisplayPort interface. port Ethernet (RJ- Connects to an Ethernet 10/ 45) port 100/1000-based network. Connects to a Kensington- compatible computer security lock.
Your Predator notebook tour - 13 Base view Icon Item Description Allows the computer to stay Ventilation cool. and cooling Do not cover or obstruct the openings. Simulates removing and Battery reset reinstalling the battery. pinhole Insert a paperclip into the hole and press for four seconds.
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14 - Your Predator notebook tour Icon Item Description Locks the optical drive or Optical drive / cooling fan module in position. cooling Turn the computer off before module fan swapping between the optical lock drive and fan. Subwoofer Delivers enhanced bass audio.
Using the keyboard - 15 S I N G T H E K E Y B O A R D The keyboard has full-sized keys and a separate numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys. Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.
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16 - Using the keyboard Hotkey Icon Function Description Switches display output Display between the display <Fn> + <F5> toggle screen, external monitor (if connected) and both. Turns the display screen backlight off to save <Fn> + <F6> Display off power.
Using the keyboard - 17 Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Pressed alone it returns to the Start screen or to return to the last open app. Windows It can also be used with other keys for special functions, please check Windows Help.
18 - Touchpad O U CH P A D Touchpad basics The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement. Press the left or right side of the button located beneath the touchpad to perform selection and execution functions, or tap the surface of the touchpad.
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Touchpad - 19 • Swipe in from edge: Access Windows tools by swiping into the center of the touchpad from the right or left edge. • Swipe in from right: Toggle the charms. • Swipe in from left: Switch to the previous app. •...
Acer provides Acer Care Center, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, or create a factory default backup. Note Acer Care Center is only available with a pre-installed Windows operating system. Important We recommend that you create a Factory Default Backup as soon as possible.
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Recovery - 21 'Recovery' in the Cortana search box and then select Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2.Select the Backup tab and click Get Started for Create Factory Default Backup to open the Recovery Drive window. 3.Make sure Backup system files to the recovery drive is selected and click Next.
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22 - Recovery • Since the recovery backup requires at least 8 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 16 GB or larger. 5.Everything on the drive will be deleted. Click Create to continue.
1. From Start, type 'Recovery' in the Cortana search box and then select Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2.Select the Backup tab and click Get started for Backup wireless and LAN drivers. Choose a folder to save your drivers and select OK.
24 - Recovery 3.Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your operating system without removing your personal files. 4.If you have apps installed on your PC, they will be removed. Click Next to continue. 5.Reseting the PC will reinstall Windows, change settings back to their factory defaults and remove all preinstalled apps and programs without removing your personal files.
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Recovery - 25 2.Select the Restore tab and click Get Started to Choose an option. 3.Select Remove everything to reset your PC back to its factory default. This process will reinstall your operating system and remove all of your personal files, apps, and settings.
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26 - Recovery keeping your computer. This process will take longer, but will be more secure. Warning Selecting "Remove files and clean the drive" will remove all of your personal files and accounts, along with pre-existing drivers that may affect your Windows installation. 5.
Using a Bluetooth connection - 27 S I N G A L UE T O O T H C O N N E C T I O N Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly over short distances between many different types devices.
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28 - Using a Bluetooth connection Bluetooth on your computer is disabled by default. To enable your computer’s Bluetooth adapter, do the following: 1. Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button > Settings > Devices > Bluetooth, and click the toggle under Bluetooth to enable/disable it.
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Using a Bluetooth connection - 29 4.A code displays on your computer, which should match the code displayed on your device. Select Yes. Then, accept the pairing from your device. Note Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require both devices to enter a PIN.
30 - Connecting to the Internet O N N E CT I N G T O T H E N T E R N E T This chapter includes general information on types of connections, and getting connected to the internet. Some of this information may not apply to your computer.
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Select your network and enter the password if required. Acer notebook computers feature an Airplane mode hotkey that turns the network connection on or off. You can use the network management options to turn your wireless network on/off or control what is shared over the network.
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32 - Connecting to the Internet 4.Select Network & internet. 5.You will see a list of available wireless networks. Select the one you wish to use.
Connecting to the Internet - 33 6.Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 7.If required, enter the network’s password. Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature Plug one end of a network cable into the network port on your computer, and the other end into a port on your router.
34 - Connecting to the Internet (Refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online. Connecting to a cellular network If your computer has a SIM slot, you can connect to the internet using a cellular phone network. To do this, you must have a compatible SIM card and a data contract with your cellular provider.
L U E L I G H T H IE L D Acer Bluelight Shield can be enabled to reduce the blue- light emissions from the screen to protect your eyes. To configure Acer Bluelight Shield, Search for ’Acer Quick Access’.
36 - PredatorSense R E D A T O R E N S E PredatorSense is a software that helps you to gain the edge in your games by allowing you to record macros and assign them to specific profiles and/or programmable keys. You can also use PredatorSense to turn the keyboard backlight on or off for specific zones.
PredatorSense - 37 Assign an action to a hotkey Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Key assignment tab. Click Edit next to the preferred hotkey and select an action for that hotkey to perform. Click Apply.
38 - PredatorSense Create a new profile Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Key assignment tab. Click the + icon beneath the Hotkey profiles list to add a new profile. The new profile will be named Profile#. Double-click the name to enter a new name for the profile.
PredatorSense - 39 corresponds to the color the physical P key will assume when that group is active. Record a macro Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Macro tab. Click the Menu bar to show a list of available macros, then click + New macro to record a new macro.
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40 - PredatorSense You will be asked to enter a name for the new macro. Click OK, then click Start recording. The macro recorder will record your keystrokes. When you have finished, click Stop recording to save the macro.
PredatorSense - 41 Adjust the keyboard backlight The keyboard backlight is divided into four zones, which you can turn on or off independently. Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Lighting tab. Click the slider under each zone to turn the backlight on or off for that zone.
42 - PredatorSense PredatorSense settings Click the Settings icon to change settings for your Predator system. You can force the system to always use discrete graphics, use the fan at full speed or disable sticky keys. The Multimedia Mode Settings buttons at the bottom of the screen automatically adjust the system’s display and audio settings for different scenarios.
Securing your computer - 43 E C U R I N G Y O U R C O M P U T E R Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer.
44 - Securing your computer password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from Hibernation (if available) for maximum security. Important Do not forget your Supervisor Password! If you forget your password, please get in touch with your dealer or an authorized service center.
BIOS utility - 45 B I O S U T I L I T Y The BIOS utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS. Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not normally need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run To activate the BIOS utility, press <F2>...
46 - Power management O W E R M A N A G E M E N T 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, hard disk, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory.
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Power management - 47 5.Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 6.Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 7.Select Save changes.
48 - Battery pack A T T E R Y P A C K The computer uses an embedded Lithium battery that gives you long use between charges. Battery characteristics The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the AC adapter. Your computer supports charge-in-use, enabling you to recharge the battery while you continue to operate the computer.
Battery pack - 49 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. Warning Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 45°...
50 - Battery pack • Excessive recharging decreases the battery life. • Look after your AC adapter and battery. Checking the battery level The power meter indicates the current battery level. Rest the cursor over the battery/power icon on the taskbar to see the battery's present charge level.
Traveling with your computer - 51 R A V E L I N G W I T H Y O U R C O M P U T E R This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer.
52 - Traveling with your computer Press the Windows key + <C>, click Settings > Power then click Shut Down You can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing the Sleep hotkey or by closing the display. When you are ready to use the computer again, open the display and, if necessary, press and release the power button.
Traveling with your computer - 53 • Pack the computer in a protective case that can prevent the computer from sliding around and cushion it if it should fall. Warning Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen.
54 - Traveling with your computer a second AC adapter, you can avoid carrying 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.
Traveling with your computer - 55 • If possible, have the computer inspected by hand. Airport security X-ray machines are safe, but do not put the computer through a metal detector. Traveling internationally Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries.
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56 - Traveling with your computer compatible with the local AC voltage. Do not use converter kits sold for appliances to power the computer. • If you are using the modem, check if the modem and connector are compatible with the telecommunications system of the country you are traveling in.
Memory card reader - 57 E M O R Y C A R D R E A D E R Connectivity options Your computer has a card reader and other ports/jacks that allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section.
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58 - Memory card reader contain up to 2048 GB (2 TB). Your computer provides an SDHC or SDXC compatible card reader. Note SDXC memory cards can only be used in an SDXC-compatible reader; SD and SDHC cards can be used in either type. Removing a card from a memory card reader 1.
Video and audio connectors - 59 I D E O A N D A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Connect to a monitor with a VGA or DVI port (the type of connection supported depends...
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60 - Video and audio connectors plugging in an external microphone disables the built-in microphone. Note Some computers have a single "combo" port that allows you to use single-pin headsets with a built-in microphone. These headsets are most commonly used with smartphones.
Two USB standards are currently available on Acer computers: USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) and USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.0 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.0 devices should always be plugged into USB 3.0 ports.
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62 - Universal Serial Bus (USB) or turned off. Additionally, you can use a USB hub to connect multiple devices to a single USB port. Important When removing a USB storage device, you should right-click on the USB icon in the Windows task bar and select "Eject <device>" to tell the operating system to stop using the device before removing it.
Thunderbolt 3 port - 63 H U N D E R B O L T P O R T A Thunderbolt 3 port allows you to easily connect devices with a Type-C connector to your computer, such as additional storage (e.g. an external drive), displays, other...
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64 - Thunderbolt 3 port Important When removing a USB storage device, you should right-click on the USB icon in the Windows task bar and select "Eject <device>" to tell the operating system to stop using the device before removing it. Failure to do this may result in data loss or damage to your peripheral.
HDMI - 65 H DM I HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a high- quality, digital audio/video interface. HDMI allows you to connect any compatible digital audio/video source, such as your computer, a set-top box, DVD player, and audio/video receiver to any compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV) with a single cable.
66 - Frequently asked questions R E Q U E N T L Y A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy solutions are provided for each one.
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Frequently asked questions - 67 • If the power LED is flashing, the computer may be in Sleep or Hibernate mode. Press and release the power button to resume. No audio is heard from the computer. Check the following: • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar.
2.Make sure the D2D Recovery setting in Main is Enabled. 3.Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot. Note To activate the BIOS utility, press <F2> when you see the Acer logo during boot up. For more information, see Restoring your computer on page 23.
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Attach your proof-of-purchase to 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.
F r e q u en tl y a sk 70 - Frequently asked questions Tips and hints for using Windows 10 We know this is a new operating system that will take some getting used to, so we've created a few pointers to help you get started.
Frequently asked questions - 71 How do I unlock my computer? Press the space bar and select a user account icon to unlock the computer. If your account has a password set, you will need to enter the password to continue. Can I personalize the Lock screen? You can personalize the lock screen with a different image, to run a slideshow of images, or to show you quick status...
72 - Frequently asked questions can drag the tile to an existing group on Start. You can give the group(s) a name and arrange the tiles within the groups to suit your needs. Can I make tiles bigger or smaller? Yes, you can.
Frequently asked questions - 73 7.Save the alarm by selecting the Save icon in the bottom right-hand corner. Hour Minutes Save Delete Note The alarm will only sound if your computer is awake at the set time. Where are my apps? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and select Search, start typing the name of the app you would like to open.
74 - Frequently asked questions How do I install apps? You can download Windows Store apps from Store. You will need to have a Microsoft ID to purchase and download apps from Store. I can't find apps like Notepad and Paint! Where are they? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and select Search.
Frequently asked questions - 75 Where can I get more information? For more information please visit the following pages: • Windows 10 information: go.acer.com/windows-tutorial • Support FAQs: support.acer.com...
F r eq ue nt ly as k e d qu est i o ns 76 - Frequently asked questions Troubleshooting This chapter shows you 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.
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Frequently asked questions - 77 Error messages Corrective action Hard disk 0 Contact your dealer or an authorized extended type service center. error Contact your dealer or an authorized I/O parity error service center. Keyboard error or Contact your dealer or an authorized no keyboard service center.
78 - Internet and online security N T E R N E T A N D O N L I N E S E C U R I T Y First steps on the net Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over internet (see...
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Internet and online security - 79 your telephone line. With a dial-up connection, you cannot use the modem and the telephone simultaneously on a single phone line. This type of connection is recommended only if you have limited use of the internet as the connection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour.
80 - Internet and online security such as a USB modem or even an appropriately equipped mobile phone. Note If your computer includes a SIM card slot, you require a compatible SIM card and a contract with a cellular provider. Before using the 3G features, check with your service provider to see if any additional charges will be incurred, especially roaming charges.
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Internet and online security - 81 Components of a wireless LAN To set up your Wireless network at home you need to have the following: Access point (router) Access points (routers) are two-way transceivers that broadcast data into the surrounding environment. Access points act as a mediator between wired and wireless network.
Security You are probably eager to explore everything the internet has to offer. In order for you to be safe online, Acer has...
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Note Acer guarantees that your computer was 100% virus free at the time of purchase and does not cover damages due to viruses. What is spyware?
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84 - Internet and online security go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture passwords, posing a serious security risk. What is malware? Malicious software, also known as malware, is software designed to deliberately harm your computer. For example, viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are malicious software.
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Internet and online security - 85 they become available. regularly updating your computer, you block attackers from being able to take advantage of software flaws (vulnerabilities) that they could otherwise use to break into your system. While keeping your computer up-to-date will not protect you from all attacks, it makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to your system, blocks many basic and automated attacks completely, and might be enough to...
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A complete version of McAfee Internet Security Suite is pre-installed on your Acer system. It includes a free trial subscription to protection updates. Make sure you Activate Choose strong passwords and keep them safe Passwords are a fact of life on the internet today;...
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Internet and online security - 87 online. To take advantage of many online services, you will inevitably have to provide personal information in order to handle billing and shipping of purchased goods. Since not divulging any personal information is rarely possible, the following list contains some advice for how to share personal information safely online: •...
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88 - Internet and online security in an area requesting you to login or provide other sensitive data. Another sign that you have a secure connection is the small lock icon in the bottom of your web browser (usually the right-hand corner). •...
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Internet and online security - 89 gone wrong is by reviewing the monthly statements provided by your bank and credit card companies for anything out of the ordinary. Additionally, many banks and services use fraud prevention systems that call out unusual purchasing behavior (i.e. if you live in Texas and all of the sudden start buying refrigerators in Budapest).
90 - Playing Blu-Ray or DVD movies L A Y I N G AY O R M O V I E S If your computer is equipped with a Blu-Ray or DVD drive, you can play movies on your computer or on a high- definition TV via HDMI.