If either of the following occurs:
please refer to "Frequently asked questions" on page 23.

Caution

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority, which is granted by the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this computer.

Operation conditions

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Users are requested to follow the RF safety instructions for wireless option devices that are included in the user's manual of each RF option device. An improper installation or unauthorized use may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Also, any tampering of the internal antenna will void the FCC certification and your warranty. To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors, and installation outdoors is subject to licensing. For more information about our products, services, and support information, please visit our website: http://global.acer.com.
Disposal instructions First things first Your guides Basic care and tips for using your computer Turning your computer on and off Taking care of your computer Taking care of your AC adapter Taking care of your battery pack Cleaning and servicing An Aspire tour Front view Closed front view Left view Right view Rear view Base view Specifications Indicators Easy-launch buttons Touchpad Touchpad basics Using the keyboard Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad Windows keys Hotkeys Special keys Ejecting the optical (CD or DVD) drive tray Using a computer security lock Audio Adjusting the volume Using the system utilities Acer eManager Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible) Launch Manager Norton AntiVirus Frequently asked questions Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Before you call Acer Arcade (for selected models) Arcade hotkeys InstantOn Arcade mode Finding and playing content Settings Arcade controls Navigation controls Player controls

iii iv iv iv iv v v vi vi 30 30

Contents

Virtual keyboard Background mode Cinema Settings Album Editing pictures Slide show settings Video Playing a video file Capturing video (TV models only) Snapshot Editing video Music Make DVDs Authoring CD/DVDs Taking your notebook PC with you Disconnecting from the desktop Moving around Preparing the computer What to bring to meetings Taking the computer home Preparing the computer What to take with you Special considerations Setting up a home office Traveling with the computer Preparing the computer What to take with you Special considerations Traveling internationally with the computer Preparing the computer What to bring with you Special considerations Securing your computer Using a computer security lock Using passwords Entering passwords Setting passwords Expanding through options Connectivity options Fax/data modem Built-in network feature Fast Infrared (FIR) Universal Serial Bus (USB) IEEE 1394 port PC Card slot ExpressCard
Installing memory BIOS utility Boot sequence Enable disk-to-disk recovery Password Using software Playing DVD movies Power management Acer eRecovery Create backup Restore from backup Create factory default image CD Re-install bundled software without CD Change password Troubleshooting Troubleshooting tips Error messages Regulations and safety notices ENERGY STAR guidelines compliance FCC notice Modem notices Important safety instructions Laser compliance statement LCD pixel statement Macrovision copyright protection notice Radio device regulatory notice General European Union (EU) The FCC RF safety requirement Canada Low-power license-exempt radio communication devices (RSS-210) Federal Communications Comission Declaration of Conformity Declaration of Conformity for CE Marking Index

An Aspire tour

After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Just for Starters. poster, let us show you around your new Aspire computer.

English

Front view
Item Display screen Microphone Keyboard Palmrest
Description Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD); displays computer output. Internal microphone for sound recording. For entering data into your computer. Comfortable support area for your hands when you use the computer.

# 5 Item Click buttons (left, center and right) Touchpad Status indicators Easy-launch buttons Power button Description The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons; the center button serves as a 4-way scroll button. Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a computer mouse. Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that light up to show the status of the computer's functions and components. Buttons for launching frequently used programs. See "Easy-launch buttons" on page 10 for more details. Turns the computer on and off.

Closed front view

Item Speakers Power indicator Battery indicator
Description Left and right speakers deliver stereo audio output. Lights up when the computer is on. Lights up when the battery is being charged. Press to enable/disable the Bluetooth function. Indicates the status of Bluetooth communication (optional). Press to enable/disable the wireless function. Indicates the status of WLAN communication (optional). Accepts audio line-in devices (e.g., audio CD player, stereo walkman).
Bluetooth communication button/indicator (for selected models) Wireless communication button/indicator Line-in jack
# Icon Item Microphone jack Description Accepts input from external microphones.
Headphones/speakers/ Connects to audio line-out devices line-out jack (e.g., speakers, headphones). USB 2.0 port Latch Connect to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). Locks and releases the lid.

Left view

Item Optical drive LED indicator Optical drive eject button Emergency eject hole
Description Internal optical drive; accepts CDs or DVDs depending on the optical drive type. Lights up when the optical drive is active. Ejects the optical drive tray from the drive. Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer is turned off.

Right view

Item PC Card slot eject button PC Card slot Two USB 2.0 ports Ethernet (RJ-45) port Modem (RJ-11) port Ventilation slot
Description Ejects the PC Card from the slot. Accepts one Type II PC Card. Connect to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based network. Connects to a phone line. Enable the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use.

Hold <Fn> while typing Type the letters in a letters on embedded keypad. normal manner.

Windows keys

The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Key Windows key Description Pressed alone, this key has the same effect as clicking on the Windows Start button; it launches the Start menu. It can also be used with other keys to provide a variety of functions: < < < < < < > + <Tab>: Activates the next Taskbar button. > + <E>: Opens the My Computer window. > + <F1>: Opens Help and Support Center. > + <F>: Opens the Search Results window. > + <R>: Opens the Run dialog box. > + <M>: Minimizes all windows.
<Shift> + < > + <M>: Undoes the minimize all windows action. Application key This key has the same effect as clicking the right mouse button; it opens the application's context menu.

Hotkeys

The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer's controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS utility. To activate hotkeys, press and hold the <Fn> key before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination.
Hotkey <Fn> + <F1>

Function Hotkey help

Description Displays help on hotkeys.

<Fn> + <F2>

Acer eSettings
Launches Acer eSettings in Acer eManager. See "Acer eManager" on page 19. Launches Acer ePower Management in Acer eManager. See "Acer eManager" on page 19. Puts the computer in Sleep mode. Switches display output between the display screen, external monitor (if connected) and both. Turns the display screen backlight off to save power. Press any key to return. Turns the internal touchpad on and off. Turns the speakers on and off. Increases the sound volume.

<Fn> + <F3>

Acer ePower Management
<Fn> + <F4> <Fn> + <F5>

Sleep Display toggle

<Fn> + <F6>

Screen blank

<Fn> + <F7> <Fn> + <F8> <Fn> + <>
Touchpad toggle Speaker toggle Volume up

<Fn> + <>

Volume down
Decreases the sound volume.
<Fn> + <> <Fn> + <>
Brightness up Brightness down
Increases the screen brightness. Decreases the screen brightness.

Special keys

You can locate the Euro symbol and the US dollar sign at the upper-center and/or bottom-right of your keyboard.

The Euro symbol

Note: If your speakers are not capable of outputting lowfrequency signals, it is recommended that you do not select Virtual surround sound, in order to avoid damaging your speakers. Click Run Setup Wizard to change your original start-up settings. Click About Acer Arcade to open a page with version and copyright information. Click Restore default settings to return the Acer Arcade settings to their default values.

Arcade controls

When watching video clips, movies or slide shows as full-screen visual content, two pop-up control panels are shown when you move the pointer. They automatically disappear after several seconds. The "Navigation controls" panel appears at the top and the "Player controls" panel appears at the bottom of the screen.

Navigation controls

To return to the Arcade home page, click the Home button in the upper-left corner of the window. To go up one folder level while searching for content, click Up one level. To return to the previous screen, click the red arrow. The buttons in the upper right (minimize, maximize, close) have standard PC behaviors. To quit Arcade, click the Close button in the upper right corner of the window.

Player controls

At the bottom of the window, the player controls used for video, slide shows, TV, movies and music are shown. The group on the left provides standard playback controls (play, pause, stop, etc.). The group on the right controls volume (mute and volume up/down).
Note: When playing DVDs and watching TV, there are additional controls added to the right of the volume controls. These are discussed in more detail in the Cinema and TV sections of this guide.

Virtual keyboard

Whenever you are required to enter search information, or name a file, DVD or folder, you can use the onscreen virtual keyboard. You can quickly enter the information you need using the mouse, cursor keys or keyboard.

Background mode

With Acer Arcade, you can continue listening to music or watching live TV while you perform certain other functions. TV, video and music will continue playing in a small window located in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen. You can press the stop button on the remote or click the onscreen stop icon to stop the playback at anytime.

Editing pictures

Choose "Edit," and you can "Rotate," "Remove red eye," and "Auto fix" (optimize the brightness and contrast) pictures to improve the appearance of your images.

Slide show settings

To change slide show settings, click the Advanced button on the Album page and select "Settings." "Slide Duration" determines how long each slide is shown before automatically advancing to the next picture in the slide show. "Slide Show Transition" sets the style of transition used between pictures; you can choose between motion, cell, fade, random, wipe and slide transition modes.
34 To add background music to a slide show, click on the "Slide Show Music" option. The Slide Show Music page will ask you to choose music from your personal music library. Click Load Default Settings to return your settings to their default values.
To open the Video function, click Video on the Arcade Home page.
Note: The Video feature is designed to play back many different kinds of video formats. Refer to the Video help section for a full list of compatible formats. If you want to watch a DVD or VCD, use the "Cinema" function.

Playing a video file

Click Play to watch video files. The Video page shows the video files in the content area on the right side. They are organized by folders and a thumbnail image shows the first frame of each video. To play a video file, click on it. The video will play full screen. The pop-up control panel will appear at the bottom of the screen when you move the mouse. To return to the Video page, click Stop.

Snapshot

Snapshot mode is available in Cinema and Video modes. This function can be used to capture the onscreen image at any time. A single frame image will be captured and stored in a user designated directory. The destination directory can be changed from the "Settings"menu.

Editing video

Acer Arcade offers the capability to edit captured video clips, photos and footage from a camcorder into a movie. You can also select a movie style, and add special transition effects and music to create the perfect home movie. To edit a movie, click Advanced, and then select "Edit Video." Then you select the clips you wish to edit from your folders. To complete your movie, you may also choose a "Movie Style," "Background Music," the perfect ratio of music and audio, as well as the length of the movie. "Select Scenes" can be used to include your favorite or the most important scenes, or the editing decisions can be left to the editing program. Once compiled, the final movie can then be burned to disk to share with family and friends.
Note: For more details on editing video and all the associated features, please refer to the Acer Arcade help menu.

Taking your notebook PC with you
This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer.
Disconnecting from the desktop
Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: 7 Save any open files. Remove any media, floppy disks or compact disks from the drive(s). Shut down the computer. Close the display cover. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer, external monitor and other external devices. Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are using one to secure the computer.

Moving around

When you are just moving within short distances, for example, from your office desk to a meeting room.

Preparing the computer

Before moving the computer, close and latch the display cover to place it in Sleep mode. You can now safely take the computer anywhere you go within the building. To bring the computer out of Sleep mode, open the display; then press and release the power button. If you are taking the computer to a client's office or a different building, you may choose to shut down the computer: Click on Start, Turn Off Computer, then click on Turn Off (Windows XP). Or: You can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing <Fn> + <F4>. Then close and latch the display. When you are ready to use the computer again, unlatch and open the display; then press and release the power button.
Note: If the Sleep indicator is off, the computer has entered Hibernation mode and is turned off. If the power indicator is off but the Sleep indicator is on, the computer has entered Sleep mode. In both cases, press and release the power button to turn the computer back on. Note that the computer may enter Hibernation mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time.
What to bring to meetings
If your meeting is relatively short, you probably do not need to bring anything with you other than your computer. If your meeting will be longer, 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 not have an electrical outlet, reduce the drain on the battery by putting the computer in Sleep mode. Press <Fn> + <F4> or close the display cover whenever you are not actively using the computer. To resume, open the display (if closed), then press and release the power button.

Taking the computer home

Take the following items with you:
AC adapter Spare, fully-charged battery pack(s) Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer
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. Airport security X-ray machines are safe, but do not put the computer through a metal detector. Avoid exposing floppy disks to hand-held metal detectors.
Traveling internationally with the computer
When you are moving from country to country.
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 the country to which you are traveling Spare, fully-charged battery packs Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to customs officials International Travelers Warranty passport
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. Do not use converter kits sold for appliances to power the computer. If you are using the modem, check if the modem and connector is compatible with the telecommunications system of the country you are traveling in.

Securing your computer

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 a security notch and passwords.
A security keylock notch, located on the chassis of the computer, lets you connect a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or the handle of a locked drawer. Insert the lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock. Some keyless models are also available.

Using passwords

Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these passwords creates several different levels of protection for your computer and data:
Supervisor Password prevents unauthorized entry into the BIOS utility. Once set, you must enter this password to gain access to the BIOS utility. See "BIOS utility" on page 49. User Password secures your computer against unauthorized use. Combine the use of this password with password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from Hibernation for maximum security. Password on Boot secures your computer against unauthorized use. Combine the use of this password with password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from Hibernation 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.

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 press <F2> to enter the BIOS utility at boot-up. Type the Supervisor Password and press <Enter> to access the BIOS utility. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press <Enter>. When the User Password is set and the password on boot parameter is enabled, a prompt appears at boot-up. Type the User Password and press <Enter> to use the computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press <Enter>.
Important! You have three chances to enter a password. If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the system halts. Press and hold the power button for four seconds to shut down the computer. Then turn on the computer and try again.

Setting passwords

You can set passwords using the BIOS utility.
Expanding through options
Your notebook PC offers you a complete mobile computing experience.

Connectivity options

Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section.

This device is equipped with pulse dialing while the Telecom standard is DTMF tone dialing. There is no guarantee that Telecom lines will always continue to support pulse dialing.
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. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind onto or into the product. Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions: a b c d When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed. If liquid has been spilled into the product. If the product has been exposed to rain or water. If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition. 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.

e f 12

The notebook PC series uses lithium batteries. Replace the battery with the same type as the product's battery we recommend in the product specification list. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep them away from children and dispose of used batteries promptly. To avoid hazard of unexpected electrical shock, use the AC adapter only when the wall socket is properly grounded. Use only the proper type of power supply cord set (provided in your accessories box) for this unit. It should be a detachable type: UL listed/CSA certified, type SPT-2, rated 7 A 125 V minimum, VDE approved or its equivalent. Maximum length is 4.6 meters (15 feet). Always disconnect all telephone lines from the wall outlet before serving or disassembling this equipment. Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from lightning.
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 INVISIBLE EN CAS DOUVERTURE. EVITTER TOUTE EXPOSITION AUX RAYONS. LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE LASER KLASSE 1 VORSICHT: UNSICHTBARE LASERSTRAHLUNG, WENN ABDECKUNG GEFFNET NICHT DEM STRAHLL AUSSETZEN PRODUCTO LSER DE LA CLASE I ADVERTENCIA: RADIACIN LSER INVISIBLE AL SER ABIERTO. EVITE EXPONERSE A LOS RAYOS. ADVARSEL: LASERSTRLING VEDBNING SE IKKE IND I STRLEN. VARO! LAVATTAESSA OLET ALTTINA LASERSTEILYLLE. VARNING: LASERSTRLNING NR DENNA DEL R PPNAD L TUIJOTA STEESEENSTIRRA EJ IN I STRLEN VARNING: LASERSTRLNING NAR DENNA DEL R PPNADSTIRRA EJ IN I STRLEN ADVARSEL: LASERSTRLING NAR DEKSEL PNESSTIRR IKKE INN I STRLEN

LCD pixel statement

The LCD unit is produced with high-precision manufacturing techniques. Nevertheless, some pixels may occasionally misfire or appear as black or red dots. This has no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.
Macrovision copyright protection notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. U.S. Patent Nos. 4,631,603; 4,819,098; 4,907,093; 5,315,448; and 6,516,132.
Laser compliance statement
Radio device regulatory notice
Note: Below regulatory information is for models with wireless LAN and/or Bluetooth only.

General

This product complies with the radio frequency and safety standards of any country or region in which it has been approved for wireless use. Depending on configurations, this product may or may not contain wireless radio devices (such as WLAN and/or Bluetooth modules). Below information is for products with such devices.

European Union (EU)

This device complies with the essential requirements of the European Council Directives listed below: 73/23/EEC Low Voltage Directive EN 60950 EN 55022 EN 55024 EN 61000-3-2/-3 Art.3.1a) EN 60950 Art.3.1b) EN -1/-17 Art.3.2) EN 300 328-2 Art.3.2) EN *applies to 5 GHz only 89/336/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive
99/5/EC Radio & Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (R&TTE) Directive
The FCC RF safety requirement
The radiated output power of the wireless LAN Mini PCI Card and Bluetooth card is far below the FCC radio frequency exposure limits. Nevertheless, the notebook PC series shall be used in such a manner that the potential for human contact during normal operation is minimized as follows: 1 Users are requested to follow the RF safety instructions on wireless option devices that are included in the user's manual of each RF option device.
Caution: To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, a separation distance of at least 20 cm (8 inches) must be maintained between the antenna for the integrated wireless LAN Mini PCI Card built in to the screen section and all persons.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. The following local manufacturer/importer is responsible for this declaration: Product name: Model number: Machine type: SKU number: Notebook PC ZL8 Aspire 1640 Aspire 164xxx ("x" = 0 - 9, a - z, or A - Z) Acer America Corporation 2641 Orchard Parkway San Jose, CA 95134 USA Mr. Young Kim 408-922-2909 408-922-2606
Name of responsible party: Address of responsible party:
Contact person: Tel: Fax:
Federal Communications Comission Declaration of Conformity
Declaration of Conformity for CE Marking
Name of manufacturer: Beijing Acer Information Co., Ltd. Address of manufacturer: Contact person: Tel: Fax: E-mail: Declares that product: Trade name: Model number: Machine type: SKU number: Huade Building, No.18, ChuangYe Rd. ShangDi Zone, HaiDian District Beijing PRCE marking Mr. Easy Lai 886-2-8691-3089 886-2-8691-3000 easy_lai@acer.com.tw Notebook PC Acer ZL8 Aspire 1640 Aspire 164xxx ("x" = 0 - 9, a - z, or A - Z)
Is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the following EC directives. Reference no. 89/336/EEC 73/23/EEC 1999/5/EC Title Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC directive) Low Voltage Directive (LVD) Radio & Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive (R&TTE)
The product specified above was tested conforming to the applicable Rules under the most accurate measurement standards possible, and all the necessary steps have been taken and are in force to assure that production units of the same product will continue to comply with these requirements. 08/01/2005 Easy Lai, Director Qualification Center Product Assurance Date
AC adapter caring for v audio 18 adjusting the volume troubleshooting 24
display hotkeys 15 troubleshooting DVD 50 DVD movies playing 50 23
error messages Euro 16 55
battery pack caring for vi BIOS utility 49 brightness hotkeys 15
FAQ. See frequently asked questions frequently asked questions 23 front view 2
caps lock 13 on indicator 9 care AC adapter v battery pack vi computer v CD-ROM ejecting 17 ejecting manually 24 troubleshooting 24 cleaning computer vi computer caring for v cleaning vi disconnecting 37 features 1, 20 indicators 9 keyboards 13 moving around 37 on indicator 2, 9 security 41 setting up a home office 39 taking home 38 traveling internationally 40 traveling on local trips 39 troubleshooting 55 turning off v connections network 44