Table of Contents
- First things first
- Your Acer notebook tour
- Using the keyboard
- The Windows OS Desktop
- Using the Precision Touchpad
- Recovery
- Using a Bluetooth connection
- Connecting to the Internet
- NitroSense
- Bluelight Shield
- Securing your computer
- BIOS utility
- Power management
- Battery pack
- Traveling with your computer
- Universal Serial Bus (USB)
- USB Type-C port
- Thunderbolt 4 port
- Video and audio connectors
- HDMI
- Frequently asked questions
- Internet and online security
Acer AN517-41-R3MH User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for AN517-41-R3MH by Acer which is a product in the Notebooks category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
USER’S MANUAL
2 -
© 2021. All Rights Reserved.
NITRO 5
Covers: AN515-45 / AN515-56 / AN515-57 / AN517-41 / AN517-53 / AN517-54
This revision: October 2021
Register your Acer product
If your new device runs on Windows OS, you may have had your
product registered automatically while you start up your device
with Windows OS.
Log in at www.acer.com/myproducts with the email address you
registered for Windows OS to review your product record. (Reset
your password if you do not know it.)
If the record is not found, please follow the steps below to
register.
1. Ensure you are connected to the Internet.
2. Go to www.acer.com/register-product.
3. Sign in or sign up for an Acer ID.
4. Enter S/N or SNID of your device to register it.
Important
This manual contains proprietary information that is protected by
copyright laws. The information contained in this manual is subject to
change without notice. Some features described in this manual may not
be supported depending on the Operating System version. Images
provided herein are for reference only and may contain information or
features that do not apply to your computer. Acer Group shall not be
liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained in this
manual.
Model number: ________________________________________
Serial number: _________________________________________
Date of purchase: ______________________________________
Place of purchase: _____________________________________
The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface,
and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of
HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. in the United States and other
countries.
Table of contents - 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
First things first 5
Your guides............................................... 5
Basic care and tips for using your
computer................................................... 6
Turning your computer off....................... 6
Taking care of your computer.................. 6
Taking care of your AC adapter................ 7
Cleaning and servicing.............................. 7
Guidelines for safe battery usage............ 8
Internal battery ...................................... 11
Your Acer notebook tour 12
Screen view............................................. 12
Keyboard view ........................................ 13
Left view .................................................. 15
USB 3.2 information ................................ 15
Right view................................................ 16
USB Type-C information (AN515-56 /
AN517-53) ................................................. 17
USB 3.2 information ................................ 17
Rear view................................................. 18
Base view ................................................ 19
Using the keyboard 20
Lock keys................................................. 20
Hotkeys...................................................... 20
The Windows OS Desktop 22
Using the Precision Touchpad 23
Touchpad gestures ................................ 23
Changing touchpad settings ................ 25
Recovery 27
Creating a file history backup............... 27
Backing up your wireless and LAN
drivers...................................................... 30
Restoring your computer...................... 30
Reset this PC and keep my files.............. 30
Reset this PC and remove everything ... 34
Using a Bluetooth connection 38
Enabling and disabling Bluetooth........ 38
Enable Bluetooth and add a device....... 38
Connecting to the Internet 40
Connecting to a wireless network ....... 40
Connecting to a wireless LAN................. 40
Connecting with a cable........................ 42
Built-in network feature.......................... 42
NitroSense 44
The NitroSense main screen................. 44
Fan Control ............................................... 45
Power Plan ................................................ 45
Monitoring ................................................ 46
NitroSense and Acer TrueHarmonyTM
settings...................................................... 46
Bluelight Shield 48
Securing your computer 50
Using a computer security lock ........... 50
Using passwords ................................... 50
Entering passwords.................................. 51
BIOS utility 52
Boot sequence....................................... 52
Setting passwords................................. 52
Power management 53
Saving power ......................................... 53
Battery pack 55
Battery characteristics .......................... 55
Charging the battery................................ 55
Optimizing battery life ............................. 56
Checking the battery level....................... 57
Battery-low warning................................. 57
Traveling with your computer 58
Disconnecting from the desktop......... 58
Moving around and what to bring with
you.............................................................. 58
Universal Serial Bus (USB) 61
USB Type-C port 62
Thunderbolt 4 port 63
Displays .................................................. 63
Video and audio connectors 64
Connecting a monitor........................... 64
Headphones and microphone............. 64
HDMI 65
Frequently asked questions 67
Requesting service ................................ 69
Tips and hints for using Windows....... 71
Can I turn off notifications?..................... 71
Can I personalize the Lock screen? ........ 71
Can I change the screen resolution?...... 72
Where are my apps?................................. 72
What is a Microsoft ID (account)? ........... 72
How do I check for Windows updates?.. 73
Where can I get more information?....... 73
Troubleshooting.................................... 74
Troubleshooting tips................................ 74
Error messages......................................... 74
Internet and online security 76
First steps on the net ............................ 76
Protecting your computer ....................... 76
Choose an Internet Service Provider ..... 76
Network connections ............................... 78
Surf the Net! .............................................. 80
Internet security software....................... 80
Getting started...
In this section you will find:
• Useful information on caring for your computer and your
health
• Where to find the power button, ports and connectors
• Windows 11 interface overview
• 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
First things first - 5
FIRST THINGS FIRST
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 helps you get started with setting up
your computer and introduces the basic features and functions of
your new computer.
For more on how your computer can help you to be more
productive, please refer to the User’s Manual. This guide contains
detailed information on such subjects as system utilities, data
recovery, expansion options and troubleshooting.
Once you have connected to the internet, you can download
updates for your computer from: http://go.acer.com/support
1. The link will open the Acer Support webpage.
2. Scroll down to
Drivers and Manuals
and search for your
model by pasting in or manually entering the serial number,
SNID, or product model.
3. From this page you can also download and install the Acer
identification utility that will automatically detect your
computer’s serial number and SNID and allow you to copy it
to the clipboard.
4. Once you have found your product model, any updates, or
documents will be listed.
Warning
This product is not designed for cryptocurrency mining uses. Damages
to your product arising from cryptocurrency mining or related activities
are excluded from your product's warranty.
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.
• Right-click the
Windows Start button
> Shut down or sign out >
Shut down.
If you need to power down the computer for a short while, but
don’t want to completely shut it down, you can put it to
Sleep
by
doing any of the following:
• Press the power button.
• Press the sleep hotkey.
• Press the
Windows key
or select the
Windows Start button
,
select Power > Sleep.
• Right-click the
Windows Start button
> Shut down or sign out >
Sleep.
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.
• Do not expose the computer to temperatures below 0º C (32º F)
or above 50º C (122º F).
• Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields.
• Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture.
Note
If you cannot power off the computer normally, press and hold the
power button for up to ten seconds to shut down the computer. If you
turn off the computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two
seconds before powering up.
First things first - 7
• Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer.
• Do not subject the computer to heavy shock or vibration.
• Do not expose the computer to dust or dirt.
• Never place objects on top of the computer.
• Do not slam the computer display when you close it.
• Never place the computer on uneven surfaces.
Taking care of your AC adapter
Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter:
• Do not connect the adapter to any other device.
• Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of
it. Route the power cord and any cables away from where
people walk.
• When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself
but pull on the plug.
• The total ampere ratings of the equipment plugged in should
not exceed the ampere rating of the cord if you are using an
extension cord. Also, the total current rating of all equipment
plugged into a single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse
rating.
Cleaning and servicing
When cleaning the computer, follow these steps:
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.
8 - First things first
Guidelines for safe battery usage
Precautions when charging batteries
The useful lifespan of a battery is adversely affected by the
following behavior:
• Constantly charging the battery/device when already at full
capacity.
• Charging the battery/device at temperatures above 35 °C (95 °F)
or below 0 °C (32 °F).
To prevent damage, follow these precautions:
• Stop charging the battery once it reaches 100% capacity;
regularly or frequently charging a fully charged battery for an
extended period of time may cause battery deformation or
damage. We recommend that you recharge the device when the
battery level drops below 70% capacity.
• Do not charge battery in temperatures above 35 °C (95 °F) or
below 0 °C (32 °F). Charging in abnormally high or abnormally
low temperatures can cause battery deformation or damage.
• The charging port must be clean and free from debris and
should only be used with Acer charging equipment. Use of a
non-Acer battery or charging equipment can cause damage to
the product and will void the warranty.
• If you plan to store the device for a long period of time, turn-off
the device, remove AC power and store the product at room
temperature (0 °C - 35 °C) in a dry (humidity: 45% - 80%), well-
ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, high temperatures and
high humidity. Do not leave your device’s battery completely
discharged for a long period of time; this may cause battery
deformation or damage. We recommend that the battery is
Warning
When using a charging cart or a small space to simultaneously charge
or operate multiple devices , the area must be well- ventilated and the
temperature kept between 0 °C (32 °F) to 35 °C (95 °F) and battery
charging must be stopped when 100% capacity is reached.
Continuous charging can cause deformation or damage to the battery/
device.
First things first - 9
checked and charged to approximately 50% capacity every 6
months.
• ONLY CHARGE THE BATTERY IN A CLEAN, WELL VENTILATED
AREA.
Precautions when replacing the battery
Improper replacement or mishandling could damage the battery,
cause overheating, result in injury, and risk fire or explosion.
• Device with built-in battery: A built-in battery must be replaced
by an authorized service center. Do not attempt to replace or
remove the battery by yourself.
• Device with removable battery: The battery should only be
replaced with parts approved by Acer. Do not replace the
battery with any parts other than approved ones.
This notebook uses a Lithium-based battery. Do not use it in a
humid, wet or corrosive environment. Do not put, store or leave
your product in or near a heat source, in a high temperature
location, in strong direct sunlight, in a microwave oven or in a
pressurized container, and do not expose it to temperatures over
50 °C (122 °F).
Failure to follow these guidelines may cause the battery to leak
acid, become hot, explode or ignite and cause injury and/or
damage. Do not pierce, open or disassemble the battery. If the
battery leaks and you come into contact with the leaked fluids,
rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention
immediately. For safety reasons, and to prolong the lifetime of
the battery, charging will must not occur at temperatures below 0
°C (32 °F) or above 35 °C (95 °F).
The full performance of a new battery is achieved only after two
or three complete charge and discharge cycles. The battery can
Warning
Batteries may explode if not handled properly.
Do not disassemble or dispose of batteries in fire.
Do not short external contacts, crush, puncture or otherwise tamper
with batteries. Keep batteries away from children.
Follow local regulations when disposing of used batteries.
10 - First things first
be charged and discharged hundreds of times, but it will
eventually wear out. When the operation time becomes
noticeably shorter than normal, check an authorized reseller to
purchase a new battery.
Use the battery only for its intended purpose. Never use any
charger or battery that is damaged. Do not short-circuit the
battery. Accidental short-circuiting can occur when a metallic
object such as a coin, clip or pen causes direct connection of the
positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the battery. (These look
like metal strips on the battery.) This might happen, for example,
when you carry a spare battery in your pocket or purse. Short-
circuiting the terminals may damage the battery or the
connecting object.
The capacity and lifetime of the battery will be reduced if the
battery is left in hot or cold places, such as in a closed car in
summer or winter. Always try to keep the battery between 15°C
and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). A device with a hot or cold battery
may not work temporarily, even when the battery is fully charged.
Battery performance is especially limited in temperatures well
below freezing.
Do not dispose of batteries in a fire as they may explode.
Batteries may also explode if damaged. Dispose of batteries
according to local regulations. Please recycle when possible. Do
not dispose as household waste.
Wireless devices may be susceptible to interference from the
battery, which could affect performance.
Note
Please refer to www.acer.com for battery shipping documents.
First things first - 11
Internal battery
• Do not attempt to replace a built-in rechargeable battery,
battery replacement must be done by an Acer- authorized
repair facility.
Recharge the battery by following the instruction included in the
product documentation.
12 - Your Acer notebook tour
YOUR ACER NOTEBOOK TOUR
After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Setup Guide,
let us show you around your new Acer computer.
Screen view
# Icon Item Description
1 Webcam
Web camera for video
communication.
A light next to the webcam
indicates that the webcam is active.
2 Microphones Internal digital microphones for
sound recording.
3 Screen Displays computer output.
2
3
1
14 - Your Acer notebook tour
2 Touchpad
Touch-sensitive pointing device.
The touchpad and selection
buttons form a single surface.
Press down firmly on the touchpad
surface to perform a left click.
Press down firmly on the lower
right corner to perform a right
click.
3 NitroSense key Launches NitroSense application.
4 Power button Turns the computer on and off.
5
Battery
indicator
Indicates the computer’s battery
status.
Charging: The light shows amber
when the battery is charging.
Fully charged: The light shows blue
when in AC mode.
Power indicator Indicates the computer’s power
status.
# Icon Item Description
Your Acer notebook tour - 15
Left view
USB 3.2 information
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 compatible ports are blue.
• Compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and earlier devices.
• For optimal performance, use USB 3.2 Gen 1-certified devices.
• Defined by the USB 3.2 Gen 1 specification (SuperSpeed USB).
# Icon Item Description
1Kensington lock
slot
Connects to a Kensington-
compatible security lock.
2Ventilation and
cooling fan
Allows the computer to stay cool.
Do not cover or obstruct the
openings.
3Ethernet (RJ-45)
port
Connects to an Ethernet 10/100/
1000-based network.
Pull the lip down to open the port
fully.
4 USB port Connects to USB devices.
5Headset/
speaker jack
Connects to audio devices (e.g.,
speakers, headphones) or a headset
with microphone.
1 2 3 4 5
16 - Your Acer notebook tour
Right view
AN515-45 / AN515-57 / AN517-41 / AN517-54
AN515-56 / AN517-53
# Icon Item Description
1
USB Type-C port
(AN515-45/
AN515-57/AN517-
41/AN517-54)
Connects to USB devices with a
USB Type-C connector.
Supports USB 3.2 Type-C, Gen 2
with transfer speeds up to
10 Gbps.
USB Type-C /
Thunderbolt™ 4
port
(AN515-56/
AN517-53)
Connects to USB devices with a
USB Type-C connector.
Supports Thunderbolt™ 4 and
displays.
2
USB port with
power-off
charging
Connects to USB devices.
3 HDMI port Supports high-definition digital
video connections.
4Ventilation and
cooling fan
Allows the computer to stay cool.
Do not cover or obstruct the
openings.
123 4
123 4
Your Acer notebook tour - 17
USB Type-C information (AN515-56 / AN517-53)
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 with transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps.
• Supports DisplayPort™ audio/video output.
• Compatible with Thunderbolt™4.
• Delivers up to 3 A at 5 V DC for USB charging.
USB 3.2 information
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 compatible ports are blue. (AN515-56 / AN517-53)
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 compatible ports are blue. (AN515-45 / AN515-57
/ AN517-41 / AN517-54)
• Compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 and earlier devices.
• For optimal performance, use USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2-certified
devices.
• Defined by the USB 3.2 Gen 1 / Gen 2 specification (SuperSpeed
USB).
18 - Your Acer notebook tour
Rear view
# Icon Item Description
1 DC-in jack
Connects to an AC adapter.
Note: Please press the AC adapter into the tunnel to the power
connector. You will feel a click indicating it is connected. Then,
check the light of battery indicator shows amber while charging.
2Ventilation and
cooling fan
Allows the computer to stay cool.
Do not cover or obstruct the
openings.
1
2
Your Acer notebook tour - 19
Base view
# Icon Item Description
1Ventilation and
cooling fan
Allows the computer to stay cool.
Do not cover or obstruct the
openings.
2 Speakers Deliver stereo audio output.
1
2
20 - Using the keyboard
USING THE KEYBOARD
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.
Hotkeys
To activate hotkeys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the
other key in the hotkey combination.
Lock key Description
Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters
typed are in uppercase.
Num Lock
When Num Lock is on, the keypad is in numeric
mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete
with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /). Use
this mode when you need to do a lot of numeric
data entry.
Scroll Lock
When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line
up or down when you press the up or down arrow
keys respectively. Scroll Lock does not work with
some applications.
Hotkey Icon Function Description
Fn + F2 Touchpad
toggle
Turns the built-in touchpad on
and off.
Fn + F3 Flight mode Turns on / off the computer's
network devices.
Fn + F4 Sleep Puts the computer in Sleep
mode.
Using the keyboard - 21
Fn + F5 Display toggle
Switches display output
between the display screen,
external monitor (if connected)
and both.
Fn + F6 Display off
Turns the display screen
backlight off to save power.
Press any key to return.
Fn + F7 Microphone
toggle
Turns the microphones on and
off.
Fn + F8 Speaker
toggle Turns the speakers on and off.
Fn + F9
Keyboard
backlight
decrease
Decreases the intensity of the
keyboard backlight.
Fn + F10
Keyboard
backlight
increase
Increases the intensity of the
keyboard backlight.
Fn + F11 Pause Pause Sends a Break Command.
Fn + F12 Scr Lk Scroll Lock Turns Scroll Lock on or off.
Fn + Del Ins Insert Turns Insert on or off.
Fn + Pg Up Play/Pause Play or pause a selected media
file.
Fn + Pg Dn Previous Return to the previous media
file.
Fn + End Next Jump to the next media file.
Fn + Brightness up Increases the screen
brightness.
Fn + Brightness
down
Decreases the screen
brightness.
Fn + Volume up Increases the sound volume.
Fn + Volume down Decreases the sound volume.
Hotkey Icon Function Description
22 - The Windows OS Desktop
THE WINDOWS OS DESKTOP
Icon Item Description
Start Launches apps, through Pinned,
Recommended, or All apps.
Search Types in the texts to search on your
computer and the Internet.
Task View Allows to switch between running
applications and add the virtual desktop.
Widgets Provides the weather, news, stocks, and
sports information.
Settings Changes the apps settings for your
computer.
Power Shut down, sleep or restart your
computer.
Quick settings
Displays the situation of network
connection, battery level and sound
setting. You can toggle quick actions to
instantly adjust or open settings.
Notification Displays the notifications and calendar.
Using the Precision Touchpad - 23
USING THE PRECISION TOUCHPAD
The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As
you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow
this movement. The Precision Touchpad (PTP) is designed to
provide a more uniform, smooth, and accurate touchpad
experience. Many applications support precision touchpad
gestures that use one or more fingers, however, some gestures
may not be supported by the specific application or program you
are using.
Touchpad gestures
Single-finger slide
Slide a finger across the touchpad to move the cursor.
Single-finger press or tap
Press the touchpad down, or lightly tap the touchpad
with your finger, to perform a 'click', which will select or
start an item. Quickly repeat the tap to perform a
double tap or 'double click'.
Two-finger press
Lightly tap the touchpad with two fingers to perform a
'right click'. In the
Start
screen, this will toggle the
app commands. In most apps this will open a context
menu related to the selected item.
Two-finger slide
Swiftly scroll through web pages, documents and
playlists by placing two fingers on the touchpad and
moving both in any direction.
Two-finger pinch
Zoom in and out of photos, maps and documents with
a simple finger-and-thumb gesture.
24 - Using the Precision Touchpad
The precision touchpad includes added technology features that
help recognize and prevent unintentional gestures such as
accidental taps, gestures, and pointer movement.
Three-finger press
Lightly tap the touchpad with three fingers to open the
Search Windows
.
Three-finger swipe
Swipe across the touchpad with three fingers.
• Swipe up to open
Task View
. Move the cursor over a
window and tap the touchpad to select that window,
or swipe downwards to exit
Task View
.
• Swipe down to minimize all open windows and show
Desktop
; swipe upwards to restore the minimized
windows.
• Swipe right to switch between open windows.
Four-finger press
Lightly tap the touchpad with four fingers to open the
Notifications and Calendar.
Four-finger swipe
Swipe across the touchpad with four fingers.
• Swipe up to open
Task View
. Move the cursor over a
window and tap the touchpad to select that window,
or swipe downwards to exit
Task View
.
• Swipe down to minimize all open windows and show
Desktop
; swipe upwards to restore the minimized
windows.
Note
The touchpad is sensitive to finger movement; the lighter the touch, the
better the response. Please keep the touchpad and your fingers dry and
clean.
Using the Precision Touchpad - 25
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
Network, Sound and Battery
icon to open the
Quick
settings
pane.
2. Select All settings.
3. Select Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad
4. Now you can adjust the settings to suit your personal needs.
You can switch off the touchpad if you prefer to use a mouse. Or
26 - Using the Precision Touchpad
you can adjust the touchpad sensitivity to suit your needs. Scroll
down to see more settings.
Recovery - 27
RECOVERY
If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently
asked questions (see Got a question? on page 66) do not help, you
can recover your computer.
This section describes the recovery tools available on your
computer. Acer provides
Acer Care Center
, which allows you to
reset your PC, refresh your PC, backup files/data or create a
factory default backup. If you cannot access
Acer Care Center
,
click Settings in the Start menu, select System > Recovery.
Creating a file history backup
Recovery Management allows you to quickly and easily back up
your files and restore them if the originals are lost, damaged or
deleted.
1. From
Start
, select Care Center in All apps list then Recovery
Management.
2. Select the
Backup
tab and click Get started for
Create backup
to
open the
Backup
window.
Note
Acer Care Center vary depending on model or Operating System.
28 - Recovery
3. Click Set up syncing for
OneDrive folder syncing
to continue.
4. Make sure the folders that you want to back up are selected and
click Start back up to continue.
Recovery - 29
5. You can select View sync progress to watch files sync until it
completes.
6. To open the OneDrive folder, double click OneDrive icon in the
notification area.
30 - Recovery
Backing up your wireless and LAN drivers
Back up your wireless and LAN drivers. You can use these backups
to install the wireless and LAN drivers if you install another
operating system.
1. From
Start
, select Care Center in All apps list then Recovery
Management.
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.
3. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen.
Restoring your computer
Recovery Management allows you to quickly and easily restore
your computer back to its default status. You can choose to keep
your files or remove them before reinstalling Windows.
Reset this PC and keep my files
1. From
Start
, select Care Center in All apps list then Recovery
Management.
2. Select the
Restore
tab and click Get started to open the
Recovery
window.
Recovery - 31
3. Click Reset PC to
Choose an option
.
4.Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your
operating system without removing your personal files.
32 - Recovery
5. Choose from the two options - Cloud download or Local reinstall
to reinstall Windows. (Ensure you are connected to the internet
when using Cloud download.)
6. Click Change settings to open the
Choose settings
options.
Recovery - 33
7. Choose your settings options and follow the instructions on
screen. Click Confirm then Next to continue.
8. 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. This will take a while and your PC will restart.
9. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen
will turn off during the reset process.
10.The screen will turn back on when it is installing Windows. Your
PC will restart several times during the reset process.
11.Follow the process until it completes.
Important
If you have apps installed on your PC, they will be removed.
34 - Recovery
12.When your PC has completed the reset process, Windows will
have been reset back to its factory default settings without
removing your personal files.
Reset this PC and remove everything
1. From
Start
, select Care Center in All apps list then Recovery
Management.
2. Select the
Restore
tab and click Get Started to open the
Recovery
window.
Recovery - 35
3. Click Reset PC to
Choose an option
.
4. Select Remove everything to reset your PC back to its factory
default.
36 - Recovery
5. Choose from the two options - Cloud download or Local reinstall
to reinstall Windows. (Ensure you are connected to the internet
when using Cloud download.)
6. Click Change settings to open the
Choose settings
options.
7. Choose your settings options and follow the instructions on
screen. Click Confirm then Next to continue.
Recovery - 37
8. Click Reset to continue.
9. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen
will turn off during the reset process.
10.The screen will turn back on when it is installing Windows. Your
PC will restart several times during the reset process.
11.Follow the process until it completes.
12.When your PC has completed the reset process, Windows will
use factory default settings.
38 - Using a Bluetooth connection
USING A BLUETOOTH CONNECTION
Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly
over short distances between many different types of devices.
Bluetooth-enabled devices include computers, cell phones,
tablets, wireless headsets, and keyboards.
To use Bluetooth, you must ensure the following:
1. Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.
2. Your devices are "paired" (or connected).
Enabling and disabling Bluetooth
The Bluetooth adapter must be enabled on both devices. For your
computer, this may be an external switch, a software setting, or a
separate Bluetooth dongle plugged into the computer’s USB port
(if no internal Bluetooth adapter is available).
Enable Bluetooth and add a device
Every new device must first be "paired" with your computer’s
Bluetooth adapter. This means it must first be authenticated for
security purposes. You only need to pair once. After that, simply
turning on the Bluetooth adapter of both devices will connect
them.
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 > Bluetooth & devices, and click the toggle under
Bluetooth to enable/disable it.
2. Click on Add device then select the device that you want to add.
3. Your computer will automatically start searching for devices, as
well as make itself visible to other devices.
Note
Please check your devices owner’s manual to determine how to turn on
its Bluetooth adapter.
Using a Bluetooth connection - 39
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.
You can also enter the Bluetooth settings by selecting the
Network, Sound and Battery
icon in the lower right-hand corner
of the screen to open the
Quick settings
pane. From here, you can
enable or disable Bluetooth or right-click on Bluetooth > Go to
Settings to enter the Bluetooth settings.
Note
Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require
both devices to enter a PIN. In the case of one of the devices not having
any inputs (as in a headset), the passcode is hardcoded into the device
(usually "0000" or "1234"). Consult your device’s user manual for more
information.
40 - Connecting to the Internet
CONNECTING TO THE INTERNET
This chapter includes general information on types of
connections, and getting connected to the internet. For detailed
information, please refer to Network connections on page 78.
Your computer’s built-in network features make it easy for you to
connect your computer to the internet.
First though, in order to connect to the internet from home, you’ll
need to sign up for internet services from an ISP (Internet Service
Provider) -- usually a phone or cable company -- that will have to
go to your home or office to set up internet service. The ISP will
install a small box, a router or modem, that will allow you to
connect to the internet.
Connecting to a wireless network
Connecting to a wireless LAN
A wireless LAN (or WLAN) is a
wireless local area network
, which
can link two or more computers without using wires. Once
connected to WLAN, you can access the internet. You can also
share files, other devices, and even your internet connection
itself.
Your computer's wireless connection is turned on by default and
Windows will detect and display a list of available networks during
setup. Select your network and enter the password if required.
Acer computers feature a
Flight mode
hotkey that turns the
network connection on or off. You can use the network
Warning
Using wireless devices while flying in aircraft may be prohibited. All
wireless devices must be switched off before boarding an aircraft and
during take-off, as they may be dangerous to the operation of the
aircraft, disrupt communications, and even be illegal. You may turn on
your computer’s wireless devices only when informed that it is safe to do
so by the cabin crew.
Connecting to the Internet - 41
management options to turn your wireless network on/off or
control what is shared over the network.
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). If
you are trying to connect to a public network (such as at a
coffeeshop), make sure you have the wireless network’s name.
2. Click Network icon in the notification area.
3. Select
Manage WiFi connections
.
4. You will see a list of available wireless networks. Select the one
you wish to use.
Note
Please refer to your ISP or router documentation for details on
connecting to the internet.
Note
If Wi-Fi is turned off, please click Wi-Fi icon to turn it on.
42 - Connecting to the Internet
5. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect.
6. If required, enter the network’s password.
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
Connecting to the Internet - 43
into a port on your router (refer to the image below.) Then, you'll
be ready to get online.
44 - NitroSense
NITROSENSE
Call up the
NitroSense
UI with a single touch of the dedicated
NitroSense
key to instantly provide a user interface for system
configuration and also display system information.
Better audio delivers a competitive edge as well as a more
immersive experience.
The
NitroSense
main screen
The main screen gives you a one-glance overview of your
computer’s current status, including the fan speeds, power plan,
component temperature, loading performance and more. The
screen provides options for each function to increase
performance.
Note
The temperatures listed may vary depending on your computer’s
configuration and the power output of the CPU and GPU.
NitroSense - 45
Fan Control
You may adjust the performance of the fans cooling your
computer’s CPU and GPU. Three levels are available: Auto
(default), Max and Custom.
If you select Custom, then you will see two sliders that allow you
to set CPU and GPU cooling independently.
CoolBoost™
Turn CoolBoost™ on to increase the maximum fan speed,
enabling even faster fan speeds and increased cooling during
heavy use.
Power Plan
You can use various power plan to achieve optimal power usage
in different scenarios.
Note
The Balance Acer Optimized mode is only supported on preload
operating system.
46 - NitroSense
Monitoring
Provide temperature and loading for CPU and GPU. As UI
launches, each part starts to record once and keeps history for
one hour. Hover on the bar to show information for the time.
NitroSense
and
Acer TrueHarmonyTM
settings
Click the
Settings
icon to change settings for your Nitro system.
You can enable/disable Sticky keys or Windows and menu key.
Display temperature can also be changed by Temperature units.
If Backlight off after 30 seconds is turned on, keyboard backlight
will automatically turn off with no action.
NitroSense - 47
To get a different audio experience, you can click
Acer
TrueHarmony
TM
icon to adjust the audio mode.
Note
Function varies depending on configuration.
48 - Bluelight Shield
BLUELIGHT SHIELD
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. From here you can toggle Bluelight Shield on or off,
and you can choose from four different modes to fit your needs:
No. Item Description
1Low
Reduction
Reduces blue light emission from the LED
backlit screen by 10% to 25% for basic
protection.
2Medium
Reduction
Reduces blue light emission from the LED
backlit screen by 26% to 45% to protect your
eyes.
3High
Reduction
Reduces blue light emission from the LED
backlit screen by 46% to 65% for maximum
protection.
4Long Hour
Mode
Professionally tuned to reduce eye strain over
an extended period of time.
Note
Specifications vary depending on model or Operating System.
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
50 - Securing your computer
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
The computer comes with a computer security slot for a security
lock.
Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object
such as a table or 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 Setting passwords on page 52.
• User Password secures your computer against unauthorized
use. Combine the use of this password with password
checkpoints on boot-up and resume from Hibernation (if
available) 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 (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.
Securing your computer - 51
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. 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 again, and try again.
52 - BIOS utility
BIOS UTILITY
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.
To activate the BIOS utility, press F2 while the computer logo is
being displayed.
Boot sequence
To set the boot sequence in the BIOS utility, activate the BIOS
utility, then select Boot from the categories listed on the top of
the screen.
Setting passwords
To set a password on boot, activate the BIOS utility, then select
Security from the categories listed on the top of the screen.
Find Set Supervisor Password and enter a password to enable this
feature. Once you have entered a password for this feature, you
may then enable/disable Password on Boot.
Remember to select F10 to properly save and exit the BIOS utility
when you are done making changes.
Power management - 53
POWER MANAGEMENT
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. If no activity is detected for a period of time, the
computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve
energy.
Saving power
Disable Fast startup
Your computer uses Fast startup to start quickly, but also uses a
small amount of power to check for signals to start. These checks
will slowly drain your computer’s battery.
If you prefer to reduce your computer’s power requirements and
environmental impact, turn off Fast startup:
1. Press the
Windows key
or select the
Windows Start button
then
search for "Choose a power plan".
2. Select Choose what the power buttons do.
Note
If Fast startup is off, your computer will take longer to start from Sleep.
Your computer will also not start if it receives an instruction to start over
a network (Wake on LAN).
54 - Power management
3. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast start-up.
5. Select Save changes.
Battery pack - 55
BATTERY PACK
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. However, recharging with the computer turned off
significantly reduces charge time.
The battery will come in handy when you travel or during a power
failure.
Charging the battery
Plug the AC adapter into the computer, and connect to a mains
power outlet.
Conditioning a new battery pack
Before you use a battery pack for the first time, there is a
conditioning process that you should follow:
1. Connect the AC adapter and fully charge the battery.
2. Turn on the computer and complete setting up the operating
system.
3. Disconnect the AC adapter.
4. Operate the computer using battery power.
5. Fully deplete the battery until the battery-low warning appears.
6. Reconnect the AC adapter and fully charge the battery again.
Note
You are advised to charge the battery before retiring for the day.
Charging the battery overnight before traveling enables you to start the
next day with a fully charged battery.
56 - Battery pack
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.
The battery conditioning process ensures your battery accepts
the maximum possible charge. Failure to follow this procedure
will prevent you from obtaining the maximum battery charge,
and will also shorten the effective lifespan of the battery.
In addition, the useful lifespan of the battery is adversely affected
by the following usage patterns:
• Using the computer on constant AC power.
• Not discharging and recharging the battery to its extremes, as
described above.
• Frequent use; the more you use the battery, the faster it will
reach the end of its effective life. An embedded battery has a life
span of more than 1,000 charge/discharge cycles.
Optimizing battery life
Optimizing battery life helps you get the most out of battery
operation, prolonging the charge/recharge cycle and improving
recharging efficiency. You are advised to follow the suggestions
set out below:
• Use AC power whenever possible, reserving battery for mobile
use.
• Remove accessories that are not being used (e.g. a USB disk
drive), as they can continue to draw power.
• Store your PC in a cool, dry place. The recommended
temperature is 10° C (50° F) to 30° C (86° F). Higher
temperatures cause the battery to self-discharge faster.
• Excessive recharging decreases the battery life.
• Look after your AC adapter and battery.
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.
Battery pack - 57
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.
When the battery-low warning appears, the recommended course
of action depends on your situation:
Important
Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low
warning appears. Data may be lost if the battery is allowed to become
fully depleted and the computer shuts down.
Situation Recommended Action
The AC adapter
and a power
outlet are
available.
1. Plug the AC adapter into the computer, and
then connect to the main power supply.
2. Save all necessary files.
3. Resume work.
Turn off the computer if you want to recharge
the battery rapidly.
The AC adapter
or a power outlet
is unavailable.
1. Save all necessary files.
2. Close all applications.
3. Turn off the computer.
58 - Traveling with your computer
TRAVELING WITH YOUR COMPUTER
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:
1. Save any open files.
2. Shut down the computer or put it into Sleep or Hibernate mode.
3. Close the display cover.
4. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter.
5. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer, external
monitor and other external devices.
6. Disconnect the Kensington / Noble lock if you are using one to
secure the computer.
Moving around and what to bring with you
When you are just moving within short distances, you probably do
not need to bring anything with you other than your computer. If
your battery is not fully charged, you may want to bring the AC
adapter with you to plug in your computer. If you cannot find an
electrical outlet, reduce the drain on the battery by putting the
computer in Sleep mode. Press the Sleep hotkey or close the
display cover whenever you are not actively using the computer.
When you are moving within a larger distance, for instance,
traveling locally or internationally, after shutting down the
computer and disconnecting any external devices, pack the
Traveling with your computer - 59
computer in a protective case that can prevent the computer from
sliding around and cushion it if it should fall.
Note
The computer may enter Hibernation or Deep Sleep mode after being in
Sleep mode for a period of time.
In this section you will find:
• Information on the ports and connectors fitted to your
computer
Ports and connectors...
Universal Serial Bus (USB) - 61
UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB)
The USB port is a high-speed port which allows you to connect
USB peripherals, such as a mouse, an external keyboard,
additional storage (external hard disks), or any other compatible
device.
You can also charge devices such as tablets, smartphones, or
other devices through a USB port. Some USB 3.2 Gen 1/Gen 2
ports support charging devices when the computer is in
Hibernate or turned off. Additionally, you can use a USB hub to
connect multiple devices to a single USB port.
Note
Two USB standards are currently available on Acer computers: USB 2.0
(High-speed USB) and USB 3.2 Gen 1/Gen 2 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0
ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.2
Gen 1/Gen 2 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.2
Gen 1/Gen 2 devices should always be plugged into USB 3.2 Gen 1/Gen
2 ports. Consult your device’s documentation to see which standard it
supports.
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.
62 - USB Type-C port
USB TYPE-C PORT
A USB Type-C port is a connector that allows you to easily connect
USB Type-C peripherals, such as additional storage (e.g. an
external drive), or any other compatible device.
The Type-C port is reversable; connectors may be inserted with
either side up.
Note
On Acer computers USB Type-C ports support up to USB 3.2
(SuperSpeed USB, 10 Gbps).
Other USB devices with a USB Type-C connector are supported, but
transfer speed may be reduced and certain functions will be disabled
(such as Thunderbolt video support).
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.
Thunderbolt 4 port - 63
THUNDERBOLT 4 PORT
A Thunderbolt 4 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,
or any other compatible device. Up to six
devices, including displays, can be
connected in series to a single
Thunderbolt port.
The Thunderbolt connection uses a USB
Type-C port and is compatible with
Thunderbolt, USB, DisplayPort and power
on USB-C devices. The Type-C port is
reversable; connectors may be inserted with either side up.
Displays
Up to two 4K displays or one 8K display with can be connected to a
single Thunderbolt 4 port. If an adapter is used, DisplayPort or
compatible devices, including HDMI, DVI or VGA, can be used.
Note
Thunderbolt 4 ports support transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps, and USB
devices with a Type-C connector at lower speeds (typically up to 5 Gbps).
Other USB or older Thunderbolt devices with a USB Type-C connector (or
adapter) are supported, but transfer speeds may be reduced and certain
functions may be disabled (such as Thunderbolt display support).
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.
64 - Video and audio connectors
VIDEO AND AUDIO CONNECTORS
Add an external monitor to your computer via a video port. The
type of port available depends on your computer’s configuration.
Connecting a monitor
1. Check that the computer is powered off and the monitor power
switch is turned off.
2. Attach the video cable to the monitor port on the computer.
3. Connect the monitor power cable and plug it into a properly
grounded wall outlet.
4. Follow any setup instructions in the monitor's user's guide.
5. Turn on power to the monitor, then the computer.
6. The correct resolution and refresh rate should be detected
automatically. If necessary, change the display settings used by
the computer.
Headphones and microphone
One or more 3.5 mm jacks on your computer allow you to connect
audio devices.
Use the headphone port to plug in stereo headphones or powered
speakers; connecting an audio device to the headphone port
disables the built-in speakers.
Use the microphone port to connect an external microphone;
connecting a microphone disables the built-in microphone.
Note
To access the display controls, right-click anywhere on the desktop and
select Display settings.
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.
HDMI - 65
HDMI
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.
The single cable keeps everything neat and tidy while ensuring
easy connection and the best audio and visual quality.
Got a question?
In this section you will find:
• Frequently asked questions
• Tips for using Windows
• Troubleshooting information
• How to protect yourself while online
• Where to find Acer service center contact information
Frequently asked questions - 67
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during
the use of your computer. Easy solutions are provided for each
one.
I turned on the power, but the computer does not start or boot up.
Check if power is being supplied to the computer (if your
computer has a power indicator, it will be off); if there is no
power, check the following:
• If you are using on the battery, it may be low and unable to
power the computer. Connect the AC adapter to recharge the
battery pack. You may need to wait a few minutes before trying
to turn your computer on again.
• Make sure that the AC adapter is properly plugged into the
computer and to the power outlet.
If power is being supplied to the computer, check the following:
• Do you have a USB storage device (USB drive, CD drive or
smartphone) plugged into your computer? Unplug it and press
Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart the system.
Nothing appears on the screen.
The computer’s power management system automatically blanks
the screen to save power. Press any key to turn the display back
on.
If pressing a key does not turn the display back on, three things
might be the cause:
• The brightness level might be too low. Use the
Brightness up
hotkey to adjust the brightness level.
• The display device might be set to an external monitor. Press
the display toggle hotkey to toggle the display back to the
computer.
• The computer may be in Sleep or Hibernate mode (if there is a
power LED, it will flash). Press and release the power button to
resume.
68 - Frequently asked questions
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. 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. You can also use
the volume control hotkeys to adjust the volume.
• If headphones, earphones or external speakers are connected
to the headphone jack on the computer, the internal speakers
automatically turn off.
The keyboard does not respond.
Try attaching an external keyboard to a USB port on the
computer. If it works, contact your dealer or an authorized service
center as the internal keyboard cable may be loose.
The printer does not work.
• Make sure that the printer is connected to a power outlet and
that it is turned on.
• Make sure that the printer cable is connected securely to a USB
port and the corresponding port on the printer.
I want to restore my computer to its original settings.
This recovery process helps you restore the C: drive with the
original software content that is installed when you purchased
your computer.
Note
If your system is the multilingual version, the operating system and
language you choose when you first turn on the system will be the only
option for future recovery operations.
Warning
Your C: drive will be reformatted and all data will be erased. It is
important to back up all data files before using this option.
Frequently asked questions - 69
Before performing a restore operation, please check the BIOS
settings.
1. If there is a D2D Recovery setting in Main, make sure it is
Enabled.
2. Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot.
For more information, see Restoring your computer on page 30.
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.
An ITW passport came with your computer and contains all you
need to know about the ITW program. A list of available,
authorized service centers is in this handy booklet. Read this
passport thoroughly.
Always have your ITW passport on hand, especially when you
travel, to receive the benefits from our support centers. 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. Please visit www.acer.com.
Before you call
Please have the following information available when you call
Acer for online service, and please be at your computer when you
call. With your support, we can reduce the amount of time a call
takes and help solve your problems efficiently. If there are error
messages or beeps reported by your computer, write them down
as they appear on the screen (or the number and sequence in the
case of beeps).
Note
To access the BIOS utility, press F2 when you see the Acer logo during
boot up.
70 - Frequently asked questions
You are required to provide the following information:
Name:
Address:
Telephone number:
Machine and model type:
Serial number:
Date of purchase:
Frequently asked questions - 71
Tips and hints for using Windows
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.
Can I turn off notifications?
You can turn off notifications so that you can leave your computer
running, but not be disturbed by notifications.
Press the
Windows key
or select the
Windows Start button
and
select Settings > System > Notifications. From here you can
enable/disable notifications for all of your apps or choose which
apps to enable/disable.
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 > Personalization > Lock
screen. From here you can:
• Select a background image for the lock screen
• Turn the
Slideshow
on or off
• Select lock screen apps.
How do I set up the lock screen slideshow?
1. Press the
Windows key
or select the
Windows Start button
and
select Settings > Personalization.
2. Under Lock screen, select
Slideshow
.
3. Click Browse and open the folder you wish to use (your
Pictures
folder will open by default). Select Choose this folder to add the
folder to the lock screen slideshow.
4. Select a folder and select Remove to remove the folder from the
lock screen slideshow.
5. Change the other settings to suit your needs.
Frequently asked questio ns
72 - Frequently asked questions
Can I change the screen resolution?
Type '
Resolution
' in the text box to display the results; select
Display
resolution
. Alternatively, you can also right-click anywhere on the
desktop and select
Display settings > Display > Display resolution
.
Where are my apps?
Move your cursor to the lower side of the screen and click search
box, start typing the name of the app you would like to open.
How do I make an app appear on Start?
If you're in all apps list and you want to make an app appear on
Start
, right-click an app and select Pin to Start.
How do I remove a tile from Start?
Right-click a tile to select it and select Unpin from Start to remove
the tile from
Start
.
How do I make an app appear on my taskbar?
If you're in all apps list and you want to make an app appear on
the taskbar, right-click an app and select More > Pin to taskbar.
How do I install apps?
You will need to have a Microsoft ID to purchase and download
apps from
Microsoft Store
.
What is a Microsoft ID (account)?
A Microsoft account is an email address and password that you
use to sign in to Windows. You can use any email address, but it is
best if you choose the one you already use to communicate with
friends and sign in to your favorite websites. When you sign in to
your PC with a Microsoft account, you'll connect your PC to the
people, files, and devices you care about.
Frequently asked questions - 73
Do I need one?
You need a Microsoft ID to use Windows 11. It makes life easier
because you can sync data across different machines you sign in
to using a Microsoft ID.
How do I check for Windows updates?
Press the
Windows key
or select the
Windows Start button
>
Settings > Windows Update. Select Advanced options to configure
the settings.
Where can I get more information?
For more information please visit the following pages:
• Windows OS information: support.microsoft.com/Windows
• Support FAQs: support.acer.com
74 - 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. Do
not attempt to open the computer yourself; contact your dealer
or authorized service center for assistance.
Troubleshooting tips
This computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers
onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems.
If the system reports an error message or an error symptom
occurs, see "Error messages" below. If the problem cannot be
resolved, contact your dealer.
Error messages
If you receive an error message, note the message and take the
corrective action. The following table lists the error messages in
alphabetical order together with the recommended course of
action.
Error messages Corrective action
CMOS battery bad Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
CMOS checksum
error
Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
Disk boot failure Insert a system (bootable) disk, then press
Enter to reboot.
Equipment
configuration error
Press F2 (during POST) to enter the BIOS
utility, then press Exit in the BIOS utility to
reboot.
Hard disk 0 error Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
Frequently asked quest io n s
Frequently asked questions - 75
If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective
measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service
center for assistance.
Hard disk 0
extended type
error
Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
I/O parity error Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
Keyboard error or
no keyboard
connected
Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
Keyboard interface
error
Contact your dealer or an authorized service
center.
Memory size
mismatch
Press F2 (during POST) to enter the BIOS
utility, then press Exit in the BIOS utility to
reboot.
Error messages Corrective action
76 - Internet and online security
INTERNET AND ONLINE SECURITY
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 80).
A comprehensive internet security program is offered when you
first start your computer. You should activate this protection as
soon as possible, certainly before you connect to the internet.
Choose an Internet Service Provider
Using the internet has become a natural part of
daily computing. Just a few simple steps can
connect you to a vast collection of knowledge and
communication tools. To accomplish these steps
you should first select an
Internet Service Provider
(ISP), which supplies the connection between your
computer and the internet. You should research
the ISPs available in your region, not forgetting to talk to friends
and family about their experiences or to check reviews and
consumer reports. The ISP you select will provide instructions on
how to connect to the internet (you may need additional software
or a special ‘box’ that connects to your phone line).
Connection types
Depending on your computer model, your location and your
communication needs, you have several ways to connect to the
internet.
Dial-up
Some computers include a telephone dial-up (‘modem’)
connector. This allows you to connect to the internet using your
telephone line. With a dial-up connection, you cannot use the
Internet and online security - 77
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.
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’ on each
telephone socket to avoid interference). To be eligible for DSL,
you must be located near an DSL-equipped phone exchange
(service is sometimes unavailable in rural areas). Connection
speeds vary depending on your location, but DSL generally
provides very fast and reliable internet connection. As the
connection is always-on, it is generally charged at fixed monthly
rates.
Cable
A cable connection provides fast and always-on internet service
via a cable television line. This service is generally available in
large cities. You can use your telephone and watch cable TV at the
same time you are connected to the internet.
Cellular
A cellular connection allows you to use cellular networks (such as
those used by a mobile phone) to connect to the internet while
away from home. The socket for a SIM card may be built in to
Note
A DSL connection requires an appropriate modem. A modem is usually
provided by the ISP when you register. Many of these modems include
an ‘router’ that provides network and Wi-Fi access.
78 - Internet and online security
your computer, or may require an external device, such as a USB
modem or even an appropriately equipped mobile phone.
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. You can set up a LAN using wired
technologies (such as Ethernet) or wireless technologies (such as
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).
Wireless networks
A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network, which
may link two or more computers without using wires. Setting up a
wireless network is easy and allows you to share files, peripheral
devices and an internet connection.
What are benefits of a wireless network?
Mobility
Wireless LAN systems allow you and other users of your home
network to share access to files and devices connected to the
network, for example a printer or scanner.
Also you can share an internet connection with other computers
in your home.
Installation speed and simplicity
Installing a wireless LAN system can be fast and easy and
eliminates the need to pull cables through walls and ceilings.
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 cellular features, check with your service provider to
see if any additional charges will be incurred, especially roaming
charges.
Internet and online security - 79
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. Most routers have
a built-in DSL modem that will allow you access to a high speed
DSL internet connection. The ISP (Internet Service Provider) you
have chosen normally supplies a modem/router with the
subscription to their services. Read carefully the documentation
supplied with your Access point/router for detailed setup
instructions.
Network cable (RJ45)
A network cable (also called RJ45 cable) is used to connect the
host computer to the access point (see illustration below); this
type of cable may also be used to connect peripheral devices to
the access point.
Wireless adapter
Most computers feature a wireless module and Wi-Fi button that
turns the network connection on or off. You may also turn your
wireless network on or off, or control what is shared over the
network with the network management options.
Warning
Using wireless devices while flying in aircraft may be prohibited. Switch
off all devices before boarding an aircraft; they may be dangerous to the
operation of the aircraft, disrupt communications, and even be illegal.
After take off, ask the cabin crew if you may enable Wi-Fi.
80 - Internet and online security
Surf the Net!
To surf the internet, you need a program called an
internet browser.
Microsoft Edge
provides an easy
and secure web browsing experience. As soon as
you have your internet access installed and you are
connected, from the Start Menu, click the Microsoft
Edge app or the icon located in the taskbar and take
your internet experience to a new level!
Acer website
To get you started why not visit our website, www.acer.com.
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!
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. Learn more about how to stay
safe online and how to stay protected after your introductory
subscription ends.
Staying ahead of cybercriminals
Stay ahead of hackers and cybercriminals by understanding the
tactics they use to access your private data.
Note
Specifications vary depending on model or Operating System.
Internet and online security - 81
Ensure your software is up to date
Cybercriminals rely heavily upon software or platform
vulnerabilities, as they are the easiest way to sneak malware into
a user's device unnoticed, sometimes with little action on the
user's part. Immediately after a software manufacturer
announces an update, hackers are ready with malware that can
breach holes in the software that would have been patched if the
update was installed.
How to stay safe: Perform any and all software updates as soon as
they are available.
Keep a lookout for fake or phishing emails
Beware of emails that appear to be from a friend or business
colleague that you know but seem a little odd. Maybe they didn't
capitalize your name or there are misspellings. The email might
be from cybercriminals who are trying to fool you into sending
them your credit card number, social security number, or logging
into a fake bank website that looks like yours but really isn't.
How to stay safe: Use a strong antispam filter. If an email looks
strange, don't click on anything and delete it immediately. Instead
manually launch a browser and type in your bank's website
address and log-in yourself.
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. Cybercriminals can also install malware such as keylogging
software or backdoor Trojans in order to gain access to personal
information.
How to stay safe: Don't fall for phone calls that tell you your
software or computer isn't working. Never give your personal
information like social security or credit card numbers to
someone that you don't know over the phone.
82 - Internet and online security
Common threats cybercriminals use
Now you know a few very common ways cybercriminals try to
sneak onto your device or trick you into providing private
information to them directly. Here are a few of the types of
malware they like to deploy once they've got into a device and
what to do if you're ever infected.
Ransomware
A form of malware that will encrypt personal data files on your
computer and attached devices. Encryption converts files into
another format, that can only be opened with a specific
decryption key. Once the ransomware installs itself, it will display
a warning message that the computer is now locked. The user is
given a specific amount of money to pay as a "fine" and a
timeframe in which to pay. Even if paid, the criminal might choose
to not unencrypt the files anyway!
What to do if you're infected: Avoid getting infected in the first
place by staying protected with internet security software like
Norton Security. Also, perform regular backups of all your data
either online or to a separate external hard drive that is
only
attached
to your computer while performing the backup.
Ransomware has been known to lock access to external hard
drives attached to the computer.
If you are infected with ransomware, think twice before you pay
the ransom. There is no guarantee the cybercriminal will unlock
your files and you'll be funding them to prey upon another
innocent victim.
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. Now your computer,
phone, tablet, or IoT device is entirely under the control of the
person who created the botnet. Most people who are infected
with botnets aren't even aware that their computer's security has
become compromised!
Internet and online security - 83
What to do if you're infected: If you're infected you probably don't
realize it as bots are notoriously quiet. Your Internet Service
Provider might send you a notification alerting you that they
found a threat on your network and that you need to remove the
bot. If you have a bot, use internet security software like Norton
Security to scan all of your devices.
Viruses/Malware
"Virus" is the commonplace word for all malicious software
programs for years now; however, a virus is just one type of
malicious threat. A virus is classified as a self-replicating piece of
malicious code that travels by inserting itself into files or
programs.
What to do if you're infected: Take steps to avoid infection by
staying protected with internet security software like Norton
Security. If you subscribed to Norton Security and think you may
have a virus, contact Norton's on-call technicians to help eliminate
the virus.
Take special precautions when using public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is available just about everywhere, from the local
coffee shop to the hotels and airports you visit while traveling.
While public Wi-Fi has made our lives a little easier, it also poses
security risks to the personal information available on our laptops
and smartphones. A virtual private network (VPN) gives you online
privacy and anonymity by creating a private network from a
public internet connection. VPNs mask your internet protocol (IP)
address so your online actions are virtually untraceable as well as
secure. One of the biggest security risks on public Wi-Fi are man-
in-the-middle attacks (MITM). These attacks are akin to
eavesdropping. Data is sent from point A (computer) to point B
(server/website), and an attacker can get in-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. VPN services
84 - Internet and online security
can encrypt all the data that you send and receive while using a
public Wi-Fi hotspot, securing your information from hackers and
other users of the same connection.
For more tips on how to stay safe
Good security habits can reduce your exposure to online crime.
By adopting a few basic behaviors, you can make big strides in
reducing cybercrime risk:
• Protect your accounts with strong, unique passwords that use a
combination of at least 10 uppercase and lowercase letters,
symbols and numbers.
• Don't click on random links or open unsolicited messages and
attachments-particularly from people you don't know.
• Don't access any personal information or social media accounts
over unprotected Wi-Fi networks.
• Use security software on your devices to help protect yourself
from the latest threats.
Protect your computer with Windows security tools
Windows provides a variety of protection applications.
Windows Updates
If you have an active internet connection, Windows can check for
important updates for your computer and install them
automatically. These updates include security patches and
program updates that can improve your computing experience
and help protect your computer against new viruses and attacks.
How do I know when my computer is at risk?
If the
Action Center
reports an alert, or if your computer behaves
erratically, crashes unexpectedly or if some of your programs do
not work correctly, your computer may be infected by malicious
software. 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.