2 Customizing my computer
Expanding through options AcerMedia bay modules Connectivity options Upgrade options Using system utilities Notebook Manager Launch Manager

Contents

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viii BIOS Utility 42

3 Troubleshooting my computer
Frequently-asked questions Error messages Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Before you call
Appendix A Specifications Appendix B Notices Index
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1 Getting to know your

TravelMate
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Your TravelMate computer combines highperformance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.
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A TravelMate tour

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

Front view

Item Display screen
Description Also called LCD (liquid-crystal display), displays computer output. Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a computer mouse. LED (light-emitting diode) that turns on and off when the floppy is active. Internal diskette drive; accepts 3.5-inch diskettes. Push this button to eject the floppy disk. The left and right buttons function like the left and right mouse buttons; the center button serves as a scroll up/down button.

Touchpad

Floppy activity indicator

Floppy drive

Floppy disk eject button Click buttons (left, center and right)
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Item Palmrest

Description Comfortable support area for your hands when you use the computer. Inputs data into your computer. LEDs that turn on and off to show the status of the computer, its functions and components.
Keyboard Status indicators

Left view

Item Security keylock
Description Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. Connects to one Type III or one Type II 16-bit PC Card or 32-bit CardBus PC Card. Ejects PC Card from the card slot. Turns on the computer power. Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g., speakers, headphones).

PC Card slot

Eject button Power switch Speaker/Headphone-out jack

Line-in jack

Accepts audio line-in devices (e.g., audio CD player, stereo walkman).
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Item Microphone-in jack

Description Accepts a mono/stereo condenser microphone.
Volume control Video capture kit slot
Controls the volume of the speakers. Accepts the video capture kit option on the left side of the computer.

Right view

Item Video capture kit slot
Description Accepts the video capture kit option on the right side of the computer. Houses the computer's battery pack. Houses removable media drive modules. Lights up when the AcerMedia drive is active. Ejects the compact disc from the drive. Ejects the compact disc when the computer is turned off. See page 46 for more details. Connects to an AC adapter.
Battery bay AcerMedia drive LED indicator Eject button Emergency eject slot

Power jack

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Rear view

Item PS/2 port
Description Connects to any PS/2-compatible device (e.g., PS/2 keyboard/mouse/keypad).

Serial port

Connects to a serial device (e.g., serial mouse).

Parallel port

Connects to a parallel device (e.g., parallel printer).

USB ports (two)

Connect to any Universal Serial Bus devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera).

External display port

Connects to a display device (e.g., external monitor, LCD projector) and displays up to 64K colors at 1280x1024 resolution.

Modem jack

Connects to a phone line.

Network jack

Connects to an Ethernet 10/100-based network.
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Bottom view

Item Memory compartment Hard disk antishock protection Personal identification slot
Description Houses the computer's main memory.
Protects your hard disk against shocks.
Insert a business card or similar-sized identification card to personalize your computer. Unlatches the AcerMedia drive for removal or swapping. Houses an AcerMedia drive module. Houses the computer's battery pack. Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack. Houses the computer's hard disk (secured by a screw).

AcerMedia bay release latch AcerMedia bay Battery bay Battery release latch Hard disk bay
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Features

Below is a brief summary of the computers many features:

Performance

Intel Mobile Pentium III processor with 512 KB cache or Intel Mobile Celeron processor with 128 KB or 256 KB cache 64-bit memory bus AcerMedia bay (removable CD or DVD drive) Built-in floppy drive High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk High-capacity battery pack Advanced Configuration Power Interface (ACPI) power management system

Display

Large Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) displaying 32-bit true-color at 1024x768 XGA (eXtended Graphics Array) resolution 3D capabilities Simultaneous LCD and CRT display support Supports other output display devices such as LCD projection panels for large-audience presentations "Automatic LCD dim" feature that automatically decides the best settings for your display and conserves power Dual display capability

Multimedia

16-bit high-fidelity AC97 stereo audio with 3D sound and wavetable synthesizer Built-in dual speakers High-speed CD or DVD drive (AcerMedia bay) USB video capture kit option
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Connectivity

High-speed fax/data modem port Ethernet/Fast Ethernet port USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports
Human-centric design and ergonomics
All-in-one design (CD or DVD drive, floppy drive, and hard disk) Sleek, smooth and stylish design Full-sized keyboard Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device

Expansion

One Type III or one Type II CardBus PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) slot Upgradeable memory
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Indicators

The computer has six easy-to-read status icons below the display screen.
The Power and Sleep status icons are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed.

Disconnecting from the desktop
Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: Save your work in progress. Remove any media, diskette or compact disc, from the drive(s). Shut down the operating system. Turn off 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. 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. Click on Turn Off.

- or -

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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, and press any key. If the power indicator is off, the computer has entered Hibernation mode and turned off. Press, slide and release the power switch to turn the computer back on. Note that the computer may enter Hibernation mode after a period of time it is in Sleep mode. Turn the power on to wake up the computer from Hibernation mode.
What to bring to short meetings
A fully charged battery runs the computer for about 2.5 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 2.5 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 not have an electrical outlet, reduce the drain on the battery by putting the computer in Sleep mode. Press FnF4 or close the display cover whenever you are not actively using the computer. Then tap any key or open the display to resume.

Taking the computer home

when you are moving from your office to your home or vice versa
After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow these steps to prepare the computer for the trip home: Check if you have removed all media, diskettes and compact discs, from the drive(s). Failure to remove the media can damage the drive head. Pack the computer in a protective case that can prevent the computer from sliding around and cushion it if it should fall.

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Caution: Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen

What to bring with you

Unless you already have some items at home, bring the following items with you: AC adapter and power cord The printed users manual AcerMedia drive module(s)

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 of the car to avoid exposing the computer to excessive heat. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation. Allow the computer to return to room temperature, and inspect the screen for condensation before turning on the computer. If the temperature change is greater than 18F (10C), allow the computer to come to room temperature slowly. If possible, leave the computer for 30 minutes in an environment with a temperature between outside and room temperature.

Setting up a home office

If you frequently work on your computer at home, you may want 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.
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Traveling with the computer
when you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a clients office building or traveling locally
Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Make sure that the battery in the computer is charged. Airport security may require you to turn on your computer when bringing it into the gate area.
Bring the following items with you: AC adapter Spare, fully-charged battery pack(s) Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer AcerMedia drive module(s)
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.
Bring the following items with you:
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AC adapter Power cords that are appropriate for the country to which you are traveling Spare, fully-charged battery packs AcerMedia drive module(s) 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.
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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.
Using a computer security lock
A security keylock notch located on the left panel 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 locked drawer handle. Insert the lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock. Some keyless models are also available.

Using passwords

Three password types protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these passwords creates several different levels of protection for your computer and data: Setup Password prevents unauthorized entry to the BIOS Utility. Once set, you must key-in this password to gain access to the BIOS Utility. See BIOS Utility on page 42 and your online guide for more details. Power-on 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. Hard Disk Password protects your data by preventing unauthorized access to your hard disk. Even if the hard disk is

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Expanding through options
Your TravelMate offers you a complete mobile computing experience.

AcerMedia bay modules

To swap drive modules in and out of the AcerMedia drive bay, follow these steps: Turn your computer off. Close the display cover. Turn the computer over. Slide and hold the AcerMedia drive bay release latch (a); then pull out the drive module from the AcerMedia drive bay (b).
Insert a drive module into the AcerMedia drive bay. The bay release latch locks it in place. Turn the computer over. Open the display cover. Turn your computer on.

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
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external devices to the computer, see your online guide for more details.
Your computer has a built-in V.90 56Kbps AC97 Link 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 modem, connect a phone cable from the modem jack to a phone line jack.
Start your communications software program. See your communications manual for instructions.

Network

Your computer has built-in Ethernet/Fast Ethernet capabilities. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the network jack
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to an network jack or hub. Consult your network administrator for details.

Universal Serial Bus

The Universal Serial Bus (USB) port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect and daisy-chain USB peripherals without taking up precious system resources. Your computer has two ports available.
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There is one Type II/Type III CardBus PC Card slot found on the left side of the computer. This slot accepts credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer. These cards should have a PC Card logo on them. PC Cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs. Popular type III cards include flash memory, SRAM, fax/data modem, LAN and SCSI cards. CardBus improves on the 16-bit PC card technology by expanding the bandwidth to 32 bits.
Note: Refer to your cards manual for details on how to install and use the card and its functions.

Inserting a PC Card

Insert the card into the lower slot and make the proper connections (e.g., network cable), if necessary. See your card manual for details.

Ejecting a PC Card

Before ejecting a PC Card: Exit the application using the card. Left-click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar and click on the PC Card item. Click OK to confirm.
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Press the slot eject button (a) to pop out the eject button; then press it again (a) to eject the card (b).

Upgrade options

Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance.
Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.

Memory upgrade

Memory is expandable to 1 GB, employing 128/256/512-MB 64-bit industry standard soDIMMs (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules). The computer supports SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory). There are two memory slots on your computer, one of which is occupied by standard memory. You can upgrade memory by installing a memory module into the available slot, or replacing the standard memory with a higher-capacity memory module.
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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 computer over to access its base. Remove the screw from the memory cover (a); then lift up and remove the memory cover (b).
Insert the memory module diagonally into the slot (a), then gently press it down until it clicks into place (b).
Replace the memory cover and secure it with the screw.
The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size.
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Using system utilities

Notebook Manager
The computer has a built-in system setup program called Notebook Manager. The Windows-based Notebook Manager allows you to set passwords, the startup sequence of the drives, and power management settings. It also shows current hardware configurations. To start the Notebook Manager, press Fn-F2 or follow these steps: Click on Start, Programs, then Notebook Manager. Select the Notebook Manager application to run the program.
See your online guide for more information.

Launch Manager

Launch Manager allows you to set the four launch keys located above the keyboard. See Launch Keys on page 16 for the location of the launch keys.
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You can access the Launch Manager by clicking on Start, Programs, and then Launch Manager to start the application.

BIOS Utility

The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computers BIOS (basic input/ouput system). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it. To activate the BIOS Utility, press F2 during the POST (power-on selftest) while the TravelMate logo is being displayed. See your online guide for more information.
BIOS Utility System Information Basic System Settings Startup Configuration Onboard Devices Configuration System Security Load Default Settings
= Move highlight bar, = Select, Esc = Exit
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3 Troubleshooting

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This chapter instructs you on 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. Do not attempt to open the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
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Frequently-asked questions
The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy answers and solutions are provided for each one.
I pressed the power switch and opened the display, but the computer does not start or boot-up.
Look at the Power indicator: If it is not lit, no power is being applied to the computer. Check the following: If you are running on battery power, it may be low and unable to power the computer. Connect the AC adapter to recharge the battery pack. Make sure that the AC adapter is plugged in properly to the computer and to the power outlet. If the Sleep indicator is lit, the computer is in Sleep mode. Press any key or tap on the touchpad to resume. Is a non-bootable (non-system) diskette in the floppy drive? Remove or replace it with a system diskette and press Ctrl-AltDel to restart the system.

The CD or DVD drive cannot access a disc.
Check the following: Make sure the disc is supported by the drive. If your computer has a CD-ROM drive, it can read CDs but cannot read DVDs. If your computer has a DVD drive, it can read DVDs in addition to CDs. When placing the CD or DVD in the drive tray, make sure it is secure in the spindle on the drive tray. Make sure the CD or DVD is free from scratches or smudges. If the CD or DVD is dirty, clean it using a disc cleaning kit. Remember to follow the instructions included with the kit. If the problem does not lie with the disc, your CD or DVD drive may be dirty. Clean it using a drive cleaning kit. Follow the instructions included with the kit.
The keyboard does not respond.
Try attaching an external keyboard to the PS/2 connector on the computers rear. If it works, contact your dealer or an authorized service center as the internal keyboard cable may be loose.
The serial mouse does not work.
Check the following: Make sure that the serial cable is plugged securely into the serial port. During the POST, press F2 to access the BIOS Utility and verify that the serial port is enabled. See BIOS Utility on page 42 and your online guide for more details.
I prefer using an external keyboard and mouse, but both have PS/2
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connectors and there is only one PS/2 port on the computer.
To connect two PS/2-type devices to the computer, you need to use an optional PS/2 Y-bridge connector.
The printer does not work.
Check the following: Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and that it is turned on. Depending on your connection (USB or parallel), make sure that the printer cable is connected securely to the appropriate port on your computer and the corresponding port on the printer. During POST, press F2 to access the BIOS Utility and verify that the parallel port is enabled if you use a parallel printer.
I want to set up my location to use the internal modem.
To properly use your communications software, you need to set up your location: 3 Click on Start, Control Panel. Double-click on Phone and Modem Options. Click on the Dialing Rules tab and begin setting up your location.

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Appendix B

Notices
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This appendix lists the general notices of your computer.
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FCC notice

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this device does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the device and receiver Connect the device 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 to comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this equipment. Operation with non-certified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception.

Caution

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

Use conditions

This part 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.

10 Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing
11 Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the following conditions:
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
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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 cabinet has been damaged If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.
12 Replace the battery with the same type as the product's battery we
recommend. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Refer battery replacement to a qualified serviceman.
13 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.
14 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 7A 125V minimum, VDE approved 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 drives 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

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AC adapter caring for === AcerMedia drive ===NV installing and removing ===PR swapping ===PR audio ===OO adjusting the volume ===OO troubleshooting ===QS
security ===OV setting up a home office ===OS taking home ===OR traveling internationally ===OT traveling on local trips ===OT troubleshooting ===QQ turning off ===
diskette ejecting ===ON inserting ===ON display hotkeys ===NQ troubleshooting ===QR, ===QS DVD ===OM troubleshooting ===QT DVD movies playing ===OM
battery pack caring for === charging indicator ===NM BIOS utility ===QO brightness hotkeys ===NR
error messages ===QV Ethernet ===PS Euro ===NR
caps lock ===NN on indicator ===NM care AC adapter === battery pack === computer === CD troubleshooting ===QT CD-ROM ejecting ===NV ejecting manually ===QS troubleshooting ===QS cleaning computer === computer bringing to meetings ===OR caring for === cleaning === disconnecting ===OQ features ===P, ===U indicators ===NM keyboards ===NN moving around ===OQ on indicator ===NM performance ===U
FAQ. See frequently-asked questions floppy drive troubleshooting ===QT frequently-asked questions ===QR front view ===P
hard disk ===NV help online manual === online services ===RN Hibernation mode hotkey ===NQ hotkeys ===NP
indicator lights ===NM ITW. See warranty
keyboard ===NN embedded numeric keypad ===NO hotkeys ===NP lock keys ===NN
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troubleshooting ===QT Windows keys ===NP diskette ===QT display ===QR, ===QS DVD ===QT floppy drive ===QT keyboard ===QT printer ===QU serial mouse ===QT startup ===QR troubleshooting ===QQ

LEDs ===NM

media access on indicator ===NM memory installing ===QM upgrading ===PV messages error ===QV modem ===PS mouse troubleshooting ===QT
questions multiple PS/2 devices ===QU setting location for modem use QU
safety CD-ROM ===SQ FCC notice ===SN general instructions ===SP modem notices ===SO scroll lock ===NN security keylock ===OV passwords ===OV service when to call === speakers hotkey ===NR troubleshooting ===QS specifications ===RQ Standby mode hotkey ===NQ status indicator ===NM status indicators ===NM storage ===NV AcerMedia drive ===NV hard disk ===NV support information ===RN
network ===PS Notebook Manager ===QN hotkey ===NQ notice DVD copyright protection ===SS year 2000 compliance ===SS num lock ===NN on indicator ===NM numeric keypad embedded ===NO num lock ===NO
online services ===RN options memory upgrade ===PV

Acer eRecovery Management
Developed by Acer's software team, Acer eRecovery Management is a tool that provides you with an easy, reliable and safe means of restoring your computer to its factory default state from an image stored in a hidden partition on the computer's hard disk drive. Acer eRecovery Management also provides you with an easy-to-use facility to back up your system and data as an image stored on the hard disk drive, or to optical disks.
Using Acer eRecovery Management
You can launch Acer eRecovery Management in a number of ways:
By pressing the hotkey <Alt> + <F10> during the boot-up process, or at any time when you are running Microsoft Windows. From the Start menu, go to Start > (All) Programs > Empowering Technology > Acer eRecovery Management. By clicking on the Empowering Technology icon from your desktop, or pressing the < > key to launch the Empowering Technology user interface. Select the Acer eRecovery Management icon.
This will open the Acer eRecovery Management main page.

Using the user interface

Acer eRecovery Management uses an intuitive user interface to guide you through the various backup and recovery processes. This UI is detailed below.

Password

Acer eRecovery Management requires a password to activate. The default password is six zeros (0s).
Reminder to burn factory image to disk
The first time you use Acer eRecovery Management, you are reminded to burn the factory image (from the hidden partition) to an optical disk.
Once the disks have been burned, or if you have checked the checkbox in the lower left-hand corner of the screen, the reminder is no longer shown.

Create backup image

You can create a backup image of the current system configuration (applications, drivers and data). It would be a good idea to create a backup on a regular basis to protect your system and data, or before installing new hardware or software. There are two choices once you click on Recovery settings.

Backup to HDD

The image is saved to the system's secondary partition (by default the D:\ drive). If there is insufficient space on the secondary partition, the option will be grayed out and a warning will be displayed. Backing up to the HDD ensures that you will always be able to recover your system if necessary, without the need for optical disks. Step 1: Click on Backup snapshot image: Create a disk image of your systems current configuration.
Step 2: The UI will prompt you to enter a description for the backup.
Step 3: The backup information is displayed.
Step 4: You are reminded to close all applications, and you are requested to confirm and reconfirm the backup.
Step 5: The system reboots to DOS and the image creation process starts.
Step 6: Once the backup is finished, or if the backup fails, a message is displayed.

Backup to optical disk

The image is saved to an optical disk. Acer eRecovery Management is able to span multiple disks if needed. Backing up to optical disk means that your data will always be available on disks, in the event of a hard disk failure. Step 1: Click on Backup to optical drive: , and enter a description for the backup.
Step 2: The backup information is displayed, and you are requested to confirm the backup.
Step 3: You are reminded to close all applications and reconfirm the backup.
Step 4: The system reboots to DOS and the image is created on the HDD. Step 5: Once the image is created, Windows starts, and then the burning process begins. The keyboard and mouse are disabled during the burning process to ensure system stability.
Burn an image to optical disk
Step 1: Click on Burn image to disk: Create Backup disk.

Step 2: You can select to burn any image stored on the HDD (including the factory default image stored in the hidden partition) to an optical disk.
Step 3: The backup information is displayed, and you are requested to confirm the backup.
Step 4: As each disk is filled, Acer eRecovery Management prompts you to insert the next blank disk. Step 5: You are reminded to label each disk in sequence appropriately. Step 6: Once the burning process starts, the keyboard and mouse are disabled to ensure system stability.
Step 7: Once the backup is finished, or if the backup fails, a message is displayed.
Delete user-created backup image
You have the option of deleting the user-created backup image to free-up disk space on the HDD.
Once you have selected this option, you are reminded that the operation cannot be undone, and are asked to confirm.
Each time Acer eRecovery Management is started, it will prompt for a password if one has been set. The default password is six zeros (0s). A prompt appears in the lower left-hand corner of the screen when the default password is used. Once you have changed the password, the prompt disappears.
Note: If an incorrect password is entered three times, Acer eRecovery Management closes and returns to Windows automatically.

To change the password

Step 1: You may change the default password by selecting Password: Change eRecovery Password from the main page.
Step 2: You are asked to enter the new password twice. The new password can have a maximum length of eight characters.
Step 3: If the two passwords do not match, you are prompted to try again. Once the password has been changed, you are informed.

System recovery

Step 1: Click on Recovery actions.
Step 2: You are presented with a list of available options.
Restore factory default image
By selecting to restore the factory default image, you will restore your computer to its original state. All your data and any programs installed by you will be lost. Once you have confirmed that you wish to proceed, the computer will reboot and start to restore the system from the image contained in the hidden partition.
Restore C: from user backup image function

Should you choose this option, you will be able to restore to the most recent image you created. The image information will be displayed below the option. This option is only available if the image is stored on a drive that is formatted using the FAT32 file system. If no image is available (either the partition has been converted to NTFS, or you have not created an image), the option is grayed out.
Recover system from CD/DVD backup
If you choose to restore from an image on an optical disk, the BIOS will be changed to boot from the optical drive. If no backup disk is found, you are prompted to insert the disk.
Reinstall applications or drivers
If an application or driver has been damaged, you may choose to reinstall it. Acer eRecovery Management will need to extract the data from the hidden partition. This process may take some time, and the keyboard and mouse will be disabled during the process to ensure system stability. Once the data has been extracted, you will see the TravleMate/Aspire/Extensa Series System CD autorun page.
Restoring the System from the DOS Interface
If the system is unable to boot to Windows, you can restore the system using DOS. The system will be booted from the hidden partition to complete recovery.
Boot from the hidden partition
Boot from the hidden partition by pressing the hotkey <Alt> + <F10> during POST.
If the password has been set (either by you, or the default password), you are prompted to enter the password.
If an incorrect password is entered three times, the system will reboot to the operating system.
Hidden partition main page
You are offered the option of restoring the system; changing the password; or exiting to Windows.

Restoring the system

Available options are listed once you select "System Recovery."
Factory Default Image will restore the factory default from the hidden partition. Backup from CD Media will restore the system from an image burned to optical disk. If you have a user-created image on your HDD, it will also be shown as an option. You are required to confirm that you wish to recover the system. You are reminded that all data on C:\ will be lost and are asked to reconfirm. The process of restoring the factory default and images on the HDD will start.
Restoring the system from optical disks
You will be asked to insert the first backup disk. Acer eRecovery Management will confirm that you want to restore the system. You are reminded that all the data on C:\ will be lost and are asked to reconfirm that you wish to restore the system. The process will begin. You are prompted to insert the other disks as necessary. If you are recovering to the factory default image that has been burnt to a disk, Acer eRecovery Management will ask you to insert disk 2 to start. If you are using a user-created image, you will be prompted to insert the disks as necessary.

Changing the password

To change the password, you are requested to enter the new password twice. If the change is successful, a message is shown. If the change is unsuccessful (because the two passwords entered don't match) you are asked if you want to try again.
Restoring the system using a bootable optical disk
You can select to restore your system from a bootable optical disk created previously. You will need to adjust your BIOS settings to boot from the optical drive first, and insert the first disk before rebooting your system.
Using a disk with the factory default image
After rebooting, Acer eRecovery Management will confirm that you want to restore your system. The backup image information will be shown. You are required to double-confirm the recovery. You are prompted to insert disk 2. Once you click "OK," the process will start. You are prompted to insert disk 1 again at the end of the process. A progress bar shows the status if you are restoring from the factory default image. Once the recovery is completed, you are informed.
Using a disk with a user-created backup image
After rebooting, Acer eRecovery Management will confirm that you want to restore your system. The backup image information will be shown. You are required to double-confirm the recovery. You are prompted to insert the first disk. Once you click "OK," the process will start. You are prompted to insert the next disks as required. Once the recovery is completed, you are informed.