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2. Open the Acer Product Registration app. 3. Install any required updates. 4. Sign up for an Acer ID or sign in if you already have an Acer ID, it will automatically register your product. After we receive your product registration, you will be sent a confirmation email with important data.
Overview..........34 How do I turn off my computer?....61 How do I unlock my computer?....61 Setting up Acer ProShield ..... 34 How do I set the alarm? ......63 Personal Secure Drive ......36 Where are my apps?......... 64 Credential Manager .......
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4 - Table of contents Internet and online security Network connections......... 70 Surf the Net!..........71 First steps on the net ......68 Internet security software......72 Protecting your computer......68 Choose an Internet Service Provider ..68...
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• Where to find the power button, ports and connectors • Tips and tricks for using the touchpad and keyboard • How to create recovery backups • Guidelines for connecting to a network and using Bluetooth • Information on using Acer’s bundled software...
6 - First things first I R S T T H I N G S F I R S T We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides...
Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. • Only use the adapter provided with your device, or an Acer- approved adapter to power your device. • Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it near sources of heat, such as a radiator.
1. Turn off the computer. 2. Disconnect the AC adapter. 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.
O U R C E 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 Acer computer. Screen view Icon...
10 - Your Acer notebook tour Keyboard view Icon Item Description For entering data into your computer. Keyboard See "Using the keyboard" on page Touch-sensitive pointing device. The touchpad and selection buttons form a single surface. Touchpad Press down firmly on the touchpad surface to perform a left click.
Your Acer notebook tour - 11 Icon Item Description DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter. Ethernet (RJ-45) Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/1000- port based network. Supports high-definition digital video HDMI port connections. USB ports Connect to USB devices. Connects to audio devices (e.g.,...
12 - Your Acer notebook tour Icon Item Description Accepts one Secure Digital (SD or SD card reader SDHC) card. Only one card can operate at a time. USB ports Connect to USB devices. Kensington lock Connects to a Kensington-compatible slot security lock.
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Your Acer notebook tour - 13 Icon Item Description Simulates removing and reinstalling Battery reset the battery. pinhole Insert a paperclip into the hole and press for four seconds. Liquid spilled on the keyboard can Drain holes drain out of the holes in the underside of the housing.
14 - Using the keyboard S I N G T H E K E Y B O A R D The keyboard has full-sized keys, a numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows keys and hotkeys. Lock keys The keyboard has lock keys which you can use to turn keyboard functions on and off.
Using the keyboard - 15 Hotkey Icon Function Description Turns the display screen Fn + F6 Display off backlight off to save power. Press any key to return. Touchpad Turns the built-in touchpad on Fn + F7 toggle and off. Fn + F8 Speaker toggle Turns the speakers on and off.
16 - Using the Precision Touchpad S I N G T H E R E C I S I O N O U C H P A D The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement.
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Using the Precision Touchpad - 17 Three-finger press Lightly tap the touchpad with three fingers to open Cortana (if your computer supports Cortana) or open the Search Windows (if your computer does not support Cortana). Three-finger swipe Swipe across the touchpad with three fingers. •...
18 - Using the Precision Touchpad Changing touchpad settings To change the touchpad settings to suit your personal requirements, please do the following. 1. In the icon tray in the lower right-hand corner of the screen, select the Notifications icon to open the Notifications pane. 2.
This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Acer provides Acer ControlCenter, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, or create a factory default backup. If you cannot access Acer ControlCenter, click Settings in the Start menu, select Update &...
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20 - Recovery 1. From Start, select Control Center then Recovery Management. 2. Select the Backup tab and click Get Started for Create Factory Default Backup to open the Recovery Drive window. 3. Make sure Back up system files to the recovery drive is selected and click Next.
Recovery - 21 4. Plug in the USB drive and wait for the PC to detect the USB drive then click Next. 5. Everything on the drive will be deleted. Click Create to continue. 6. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 7.
22 - Recovery Reset this PC and keep my files 1. From Start, select Control Center then Recovery Management. 2. Select the Restore tab and click Get started to Choose an option. 3. Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your operating system without removing your personal files.
Recovery - 23 4. Resetting the PC will reinstall Windows, change settings back to their factory defaults and remove all preinstalled apps and programs without removing your personal files. Click Reset to continue. 5. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen will turn off during the reset process.
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24 - Recovery 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. 4. Select Just remove my files if you are keeping your computer. This will be quicker, but less secure.
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Recovery - 25 5. Click Reset to continue. 6. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen will turn off during the reset process. 7. The screen will turn back on when it is installing Windows. Your PC will restart several times during the reset process.
26 - Using a Bluetooth connection S I N G A L U E 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 of devices.
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Using a Bluetooth connection - 27 4. Select the device you wish to pair from the list of discovered devices. 5. After pairing, if there is a code displaying on the screen, enter that code on the device to proceed the connection. Note Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require both devices to enter a PIN.
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...
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Connecting to the Internet - 29 To connect to a wireless network, please follow the steps below. 1. Ensure you have a wireless router/access point and current internet connection through the ISP of your choice. Make a note of the wireless network’s name and password (if necessary).
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30 - Connecting to the Internet 4. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 5. If required, enter the network’s password.
Connecting to the Internet - 31 Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature If your computer has a network port, plug one end of a network cable into the network port on your computer, and the other end into a port on your router (refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online.
32 - Bluelight Shield L U E L I G H T H I E L D The Bluelight Shield can be enabled to reduce blue-light emissions from the screen to protect your eyes. To configure the Bluelight Shield, search for ’Quick Access’ in the Start Menu.
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Keeping your computer and data safe... In this section you will find: • How to secure your computer • Setting passwords • What you need to prepare when you’re traveling • How to get the most out of your battery...
• Data Removal - File shredder. • Information - About this software. Setting up Acer ProShield The first time you run Acer ProShield, you will be led through a setup wizard that allows you to set up the parameters for Acer ProShield.
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Acer ProShield - 35 Click Start to begin. You will be required to set a password, and can choose to create a Personal Secure Drive. Note Select a password that you will remember, but is difficult to guess. Do not use words that can be found in a dictionary.
36 - Acer ProShield Personal Secure Drive The Personal Secure Disk (PSD) is a secure section of your hard disk where you can save files. You can only get access to the PSD via password or fingerprint authentication. Once setup is finished, you can go to the ProShield Console to manage your computer or make changes to the settings.
Acer ProShield - 37 You can change your ProShield passwords, back up or restore credential information. Data Protection Here you can select files for encryption or decryption, and manage your Personal Secure Drive.
38 - Acer ProShield Data Removal Here you can select files to be completely removed from the hard disk. The File Shredder overwrites the data to make recovering the data impossible. Warning Make sure you select only the information you want to shred. Once you...
Securing your computer - 39 E C U R I N G Y O U R C O MP U TE R Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer. Security features include hardware and software locks —...
40 - Securing your computer Entering passwords When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen. • When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you enter the BIOS utility. • Type the Supervisor Password and press Enter to access the BIOS utility.
BIOS utility - 41 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 it.
42 - 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 - 43 4. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 5. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.
44 - 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.
Battery pack - 45 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° C (113° F). Extreme temperatures may adversely affect the battery pack.
46 - Battery pack 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. Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the power meter. Important Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears.
Traveling with your computer - 47 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.
48 - Traveling with your computer 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. Note The computer may enter Hibernation or Deep Sleep mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time.
Traveling with your computer - 49 What to take with you Unless you have some items at home, take the following items with you: • AC adapter and power cord. • The printed Setup Guide. Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work: •...
50 - Traveling with your computer Traveling with the computer Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries. When you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a client's office building or traveling locally. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home.
Traveling with your computer - 51 Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you: • AC adapter. • Power cords that are appropriate for your destination(s). •...
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Ports and connectors... In this section you will find: • Information on the ports and connectors fitted to your computer...
Note 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.
54 - SD card reader C A R D R E A D E R SD (Secure Digital) cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, tablets, media players and cellular phones. Inserting an SD card 1. Align the card so that the connector points towards the port, with the connectors facing down.
Video and audio connectors - 55 I D E O A N D A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Add an external monitor to your computer via a video port. The type of port available depends on your computer’s configuration.
56 - HDMI H D M 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.
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Got a question? In this section you will find: • Frequently asked questions • Tips for using Windows 10 • Troubleshooting information • How to protect yourself while online • Where to find Acer service center contact information...
58 - Frequently asked questions R E Q U E N TL 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.
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Frequently asked questions - 59 icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and drag the slider to the right to increase the volume. • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar.
60 - Frequently asked questions Note To access the BIOS utility, press F2 when you see the Acer logo during boot For more information, see Restoring your computer on page Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Your computer is backed by an International Travelers Warranty (ITW) that gives you security and peace of mind when traveling.
F r e qu e nt ly a sk Frequently asked questions - 61 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. How do I get to Start? Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button on the lower left-hand corner of the screen.
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62 - Frequently asked questions 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 and notifications to suit your personal needs. To change the background, press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button and select Settings >...
Frequently asked questions - 63 Can I change the screen resolution? Yes, you can. Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and type 'Resolution' in the text box to display the results; select Change the resolution of the display. Alternatively, you can also right-click anywhere on the desktop and select Display settings >...
64 - Frequently asked questions 9. Select On or Off to activate or deactivate the alarm. 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 click search box, start typing the name of the app you would like to open.
Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Select Advanced options to configure the settings. 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...
Fr eq u en tl y as ked qu es t io ns 66 - 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 - 67 Error messages Corrective action Contact your dealer or an authorized service I/O parity error center. Keyboard error or no Contact your dealer or an authorized service keyboard connected center. Keyboard interface Contact your dealer or an authorized service error center.
68 - 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 the internet (see Internet security software on page 72).
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Internet and online security - 69 internet as the connection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour. DSL (e.g. ADSL) DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an ‘always-on’ connection that runs over the phone line. As DSL and phone do not use the same frequencies, you can use your telephone at the same time you are connected to the internet (this requires a ‘micro-filter’...
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70 - Internet and online security Network connections A LAN (Local Area Network) is a group of computers (for example, within an office building or home) that share a common communications line and resources. When you set up a network, you can share files, peripheral devices (such as a printer) and an internet connection.
Acer is dedicated to provide you with on-going personalized support. Check out our Support section to get help tailored to your needs. www.acer.com is your portal to a world of online activities and services: visit us regularly for the latest information and downloads!
72 - Internet and online security Internet security software To help you stay ahead of cybercriminals, Acer has partnered with Norton to offer you security for all your devices. Select Acer computers include protection by Norton Security Norton Security is pre-installed on select Acer computers, protecting your identity and financial data from viruses, spyware, malware and other online threats.
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Internet and online security - 73 Don't be fooled if someone calls your phone A tech support scam is a form of online fraud where people call you on the phone saying they're Technical Support from a trusted company like Norton or Microsoft and that you have a virus. The main motive behind these scams is to extort money from the victim.
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74 - Internet and online security Botnets A botnet is a string of infected, connected computers coordinated together to perform a task. Botnets gain access to your machine through some piece of malicious coding. Once the software is downloaded, the botnet will now contact its master computer and let it know that everything is ready to go.
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Internet and online security - 75 between these transmissions. They then set up tools programmed to "listen in" on transmissions, intercept data that is specifically targeted as valuable, and capture the data, such as your login credentials and passwords. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure your privacy and anonymity are protected when you use public Wi-Fi.
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76 - Internet and online security However, do not blame every computer problem on a virus! If you suspect your computer is infected, the first thing to do is update, if you have not already done so, and run your antivirus and anti-spyware software.