Troubleshooting. Gateway M-150XL, M-6752, M-6823, M-6318, M-6323, M-1615, M-6824, M-6315, M-150S, M-6816
Below you will find brief information for Notebook . This guide provides essential details on setting up, using, and maintaining your notebook. It covers topics from checking out your device to troubleshooting common issues, ensuring a smooth and informed user experience.
Advertisement
Advertisement
CHAPTER 9
Troubleshooting
•
Safety guidelines
•
First steps
•
Troubleshooting
•
Telephone support
113
Safety guidelines
Warning
Do not try to troubleshoot your problem if power cords or plugs are damaged, if your notebook was dropped, or if the case was damaged. Instead, unplug your notebook and contact a qualified computer technician.
Tip
For more information about preventing damage from static electricity, see
“Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 102
.
While troubleshooting your notebook, follow these safety guidelines:
•
Never remove the memory bay cover or hard drive bay cover while your notebook is turned on, while the battery is installed, and while the modem cable, network cable, and AC power adapter are connected to your notebook.
•
Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal components.
•
After you complete any maintenance tasks where you remove the memory bay cover or hard drive bay cover, make sure that you replace the cover, reinstall any screws, then replace the battery before you start your notebook.
Help
For more information about troubleshooting, click Start, then click Help
and Support. Type the keyword troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
First steps
If you have problems with your notebook, try these things first:
•
Make sure that the AC power adapter is connected to your notebook and an AC outlet and that the AC outlet is supplying power.
•
Make sure that the power cord is firmly connected to the
AC power adapter.
•
If you use a power strip or surge protector, make sure that it is turned on.
114
www.gateway.com
•
If the notebook will not turn on, try turning it on with the notebook plugged in and the battery removed, then try turning the notebook on with the notebook unplugged and the battery installed.
•
If a peripheral device (such as a keyboard or mouse) does not work, make sure that all connections are secure.
•
Make sure that your hard drive is not full.
•
If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. The message may help Gateway
Customer Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem.
•
If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the installation procedures you performed and make sure that you followed each instruction.
•
If an error occurs in a program, see the program’s printed documentation or the online help.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order.
Audio
Audio troubleshooting is covered under “Sound” on page 137 .
Battery
Battery troubleshooting is covered under
.
CD drives
CD drive troubleshooting is covered under “DVD drives” on page 117
.
Diskette drive (external)
The diskette drive is not recognized
•
Shut down and restart your notebook.
•
Disconnect the USB cable, then reconnect it.
115
You see an “Access Denied” or “Write protect” error message
•
Move the write-protection tab in the upper-right corner of the diskette down (unprotected).
•
The diskette may be full. Delete unnecessary files on the diskette and try again.
•
Not all diskettes are IBM-compatible. Make sure that the diskette you are using is IBM-compatible.
•
Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.
You see a “Disk is full” error message
•
Delete unnecessary files on the diskette.
•
Try a different diskette. Occasionally diskettes are flawed and cannot be read by the diskette drive.
•
Run Error checking on the diskette. If errors are detected and corrected, try using the diskette again. For instructions on running Error checking, see “Checking the hard drive for errors” in your online User Guide.
You see a “Non-system disk,” “NTLDR is missing,” or “Disk error” error message
•
Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press
E
NTER
.
•
Make sure that the diskette you are using is
IBM-compatible.
The diskette drive status indicator is lit continuously
•
Remove the diskette from the drive. If the indicator stays on, try restarting your notebook.
Display
The screen is too dark
•
Adjust the brightness using the system keys or Windows
Mobility Center. For more information about adjusting
the brightness, see “Adjusting the brightness” on page 44 .
The screen resolution is not correct
•
Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings dialog box. For instructions on changing the screen resolution, see “Changing the color depth and screen resolution” in your online User Guide.
116
www.gateway.com
The text on the display is dim or difficult to read
•
Adjust the brightness using the system keys or Windows
Mobility Center. For more information about adjusting
the brightness, see “Adjusting the brightness” on page 44 .
•
Change the display settings. For instructions on changing the display settings, see “Changing screen settings” in your online User Guide.
•
Move your notebook away from sources of electrical interference, such as televisions, unshielded speakers, microwaves, fluorescent lights, and metal beams or shelves.
The display has pixels that are always dark or too bright
•
This condition is normal and inherent in the TFT technology used in active-matrix LCD screens. Gateway’s inspection standards keep these to a minimum. If you feel these pixels are unacceptably numerous or dense on your display, contact Gateway Customer Care to identify whether a repair or replacement is justified based on the number of pixels affected.
The display is blank
•
Adjust the brightness using the system keys or Windows
Mobility Center. For more information about adjusting
the brightness, see “Adjusting the brightness” on page 44 .
•
Make sure the notebook is not in Sleep or Hibernate mode. Press the power button.
•
The notebook may be sending its display to an external monitor or projector. Press F
N
+ F4 several times to toggle through the LCD panel, an external monitor or projector, or both.
DVD drives
Your notebook does not recognize a disc
•
The disc may not be seated correctly in the tray. When you place a disc on the tray, make sure that you press the disc firmly onto the spindle so the retainers hold the disc in place.
•
Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again.
•
Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed and cannot be read by the drive.
117
118
•
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your notebook.
•
Your notebook may be experiencing some temporary memory problems. Shut down and restart your notebook.
•
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 87 .
An audio CD does not produce sound
•
Make sure that the CD label is facing up, then try again.
•
Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your notebook.
•
Make sure that the volume control on your notebook is turned up. For more information about using your
volume control, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 45 .
•
Make sure that the Windows volume control is turned up. For instructions on how to adjust the volume control in Windows, see
“Adjusting the volume” on page 45
.
•
Make sure that Mute controls are turned off.
•
If you are using the built-in speakers, make sure that nothing is plugged into the headphone jack on the notebook. For the location of the headphone jack, see
•
If you are using powered speakers, make sure that they are plugged in and turned on.
•
Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 87 .
•
Your notebook may be experiencing some temporary memory problems. Shut down and restart your notebook.
•
Reinstall the audio device drivers. For more information, see
“Recovering pre-installed software and drivers” on page 88
.
A DVD movie will not play
•
Make sure that the label or side you want to play is facing up, then try again.
•
Shut down and restart your notebook.
•
Clean the DVD. For more information, see
“Cleaning CDs or DVDs” on page 87 .
•
Make sure that the disc’s regional code and your DVD drive’s regional code match.
•
Make sure that a DVD player program has been installed on your notebook. For instructions on playing a DVD, see
“Playing music and movies” in your online User Guide.
www.gateway.com
A DVD does not produce sound on a television
•
Audio is transmitted through an HDMI connection, however, audio is not transmitted through a monitor jack. If you are connecting your notebook to a television using the monitor jack, use the built-in speakers, a set of headphones or external powered speakers, or connect your notebook to a stereo system to hear sound while playing a DVD.
You cannot eject a CD or DVD
•
Your notebook must be turned on to remove CDs and
DVDs. If you do not want to turn on your notebook, manually eject the disc by inserting an opened paper clip into the manual eject hole. For the location of the manual eject hole, see
“Using a tray-load DVD drive” on page 53 .
Ethernet
Ethernet troubleshooting is covered under
“Networks (wired)” on page 131 .
Express Cards
You installed an Express Card and now your notebook is having problems
•
Make sure that you have correctly installed required software for the Express Card. For more information, see your Express Card’s documentation.
File management
A file was accidentally deleted
•
Recover the file from the Recycle Bin by following the instructions in “Deleting files and folders” in your online
User Guide.
Caution
If a file was deleted while holding down the S
HIFT
key or if the
Recycle Bin has been emptied, the file cannot be restored.
Help
For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword System Restore in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
119
Fingerprint reader
The fingerprint reader does not recognize your fingerprint
•
Make sure that you are using the correct method for swiping your finger. For more information, see
“Running the TouchStrip Tutorial” on page 31
.
•
Make sure that you are using a finger that you have enrolled. For more information, see
“Enrolling your fingerprints” on page 32
.
•
For more information about troubleshooting the fingerprint reader, click (Start),
All Programs
,
Protector Suite QL, then click Help.
Hard drive
You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message
•
Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk
Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files, see “Deleting unnecessary files” in your online User
Guide.
•
Empty the Recycle Bin by right-clicking the Recycle Bin icon, then clicking Empty Recycle Bin.
Caution
All deleted files will be lost when you empty the Recycle Bin.
•
Save your files to another drive. If the hard drive is full, copy any files not regularly used to backup media, then delete them from the hard drive.
Help
For more information about file management, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword file management in the
Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
You see a “Data error” message
•
This may be the result of a defective area on the hard drive. To fix hard drive problems, run the Error checking program. For instructions on fixing hard drive problems, see “Checking the hard drive for errors” in your online
User Guide.
The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you see a “General failure reading drive C” error message
•
If a diskette is in the diskette drive, eject it and restart your notebook.
120
www.gateway.com
•
Make sure that the hard drive is installed correctly.
Remove it, firmly reinsert it, then restart your notebook.
For more information about removing your hard drive, see
“Replacing the hard drive kit” on page 107 .
•
If your notebook has been subjected to static electricity or physical shock, you may need to reinstall the operating system.
Internet
You cannot connect to the Internet
•
If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the optional modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. For the location of
your modem jack, see “Back” on page 10 .
-OR-
If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the Ethernet network jack and not the optional modem jack. For the location
of your network jack, see “Left” on page 7 .
•
Make sure that you do not have a problem with your
modem. For more information, see “Modem (dial-up)” on page 127
.
•
Make sure that your account with your Internet service provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP technical support for help.
Help
For more information about troubleshooting Internet connections, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword
troubleshooting connections in the Search Help box, then press
E
NTER
.
You see an “Unable to locate host” message and are unable to browse the Internet
•
This problem can occur when you have typed a URL (Web address) incorrectly, you have lost your Internet connection, or your ISP is having technical difficulties.
Double-check the URL or try a different URL. If the error message still appears, disconnect from the ISP connection and close your browser, then reconnect and open the browser. If you still get the error, your ISP may be having technical difficulties.
121
Connecting to a Web site takes too long
Many factors can affect Internet performance:
•
The condition of the telephone lines in your residence or at your local telephone service
•
The condition of the Internet computers to which you connect and the number of users accessing those computers
•
The complexity of graphics and multimedia on Web pages
•
Having multiple Web browsers open, performing multiple downloads, and having multiple programs open on your notebook
People are sending you e-mail messages, but you have not received any mail
•
Click the receive button in your e-mail program.
•
Make sure that your account with your Internet service provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP for technical support.
Keyboard
A keyboard character keeps repeating or you see a
“Keyboard stuck” or “Key failure” error message
•
Make sure that nothing is resting on the keyboard.
•
Make sure that a key is not stuck. Press each key to loosen a key that might be stuck, then restart your notebook.
You are pressing a letter key and a number appears on the screen
•
The numeric keypad is turned on. For more information
about using your keyboard, see “Using the keyboard” on page 26
.
An external keyboard does not work
•
Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in correctly.
•
Remove all extension cables and switchboxes.
•
Clean the keyboard by using an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys.
122
www.gateway.com
•
Try a keyboard that you know works to make sure that the keyboard port works.
•
If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your notebook and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard dry before using it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it.
Media Center
This section only covers problems relating to Media Center mode. Media Center mode is available only on Windows Vista
Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate versions. To view
Media Center troubleshooting information that is not covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site at www.gateway.com
.
Help
For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click
Help and Support. Type the phrase Media Center in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
The Media Center video display looks bad on your TV
Many factors, such as the display type, quality of the video source, type of connection used, quality of video cables, display device screen resolution, size of TV, age of the TV, or the type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan), can affect the video quality significantly:
•
Display type—Some retail TVs may provide lower quality video. A progressive scan display device with an HDMI or VGA input is the best choice.
123
124
•
Type of connection used—You can connect the notebook video output to a TV. However, the connection type has an affect on the video quality. The notebook has two video outputs:
•
HDMI—If your TV includes an HDMI port, connect the
HDMI cable from the notebook’s HDMI Out port to the
TV’s HDMI In port. HDMI display quality is usually superior for TV images. HDMI also transmits audio to your television. Many older TVs do not have an HDMI port.
•
VGA—If your TV does not include and HDMI port, but does include a VGA port, connect the VGA cable from the notebook’s VGA (monitor) port to the TV’s VGA In port. Many older TVs do not have a VGA port. VGA only transmits video. You should use the built-in speakers, a set of headphones or external powered speakers, or connect your notebook to a stereo system to hear sound.
•
Quality of video cables—Poor quality or the incorrect type of video cables can cause problems and affect the video quality. Gateway recommends using high-quality video cables that can be purchased from Gateway.
Important
Cable connections must be made correctly for optimal video quality. A poor cable connection can lower video quality.
•
Screen resolution—By default, the notebook uses a screen resolution optimized for the LCD screen. Many older TVs cannot display this high of a resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the screen resolution to 800 × 600 or 640 × 480. For more information about changing the screen resolution, see
“Changing color depth and screen resolution” in your online User Guide.
Help
For more information about adjusting display settings, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword
changing display
settings in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
•
Size of display device—Small computer monitors for standard computer applications are generally not optimized for motion video playback. Although they offer excellent resolutions and refresh rates, they are designed to make static white backgrounds with black
www.gateway.com
text look readable. Some small display devices do not make colorful motion video look its best. Generally, video will look better on a larger display device.
•
Age of the TV—Newer TVs usually have more advanced features, produce a better quality picture, and support higher screen resolutions. The video display will likely be better on a newer model TV.
•
Type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan)
Many CRT (tube) TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced video displays a video frame with two passes of alternating scan lines. The TV screen first displays the video image odd lines one at a time, sequentially from top to bottom, then it fills in the other half of the video image with the even lines. Because most TVs use this interlaced method to display the picture on the screen, a standard interlaced analog TV will most likely flicker when displaying thin lines and small text. An interlaced video display device will produce a lower quality display, especially when viewing and using the notebook functions.
Progressive scan video displays a video frame with one pass of sequential scan lines. A progressive scan TV displays the entire picture, drawn sequentially from top to bottom, without the odd/even interlacing. This results in a fuller, sharper picture and better display quality for viewing and using the Media Center functions. The progressive scan picture is also brighter and easier on your eyes.
You need to configure your notebook to output to a TV
•
In Media Center mode, your notebook detects whether you are using a VGA or an HDMI display device and automatically changes the display settings for the type of display device you are using. For more information, review the FAQ topic at www.gateway.com
.
You want to change display settings to get better TV or DVD image quality
•
Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation. For more information review the FAQ topic at www.gateway.com
.
You want to know whether you can burn videos that were recorded in Media Center mode to a DVD
•
Yes, you can. The Media Center saves recorded videos in the DVR-MS format. You can burn a DVR-MS file to a DVD with DVD recording (burning) software, such as
Power2Go, and with the Media Center itself.
125
You want to know whether you can play recorded videos on other computers
•
Yes, you can. A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be replayed on another computer with Media Center or on a computer without Media Center provided that it has a
DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as
PowerDVD). The computer without Media Center must also have Windows Vista or Windows XP with Service
Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or later, and the
Windows patch Q810243 Update.
You want to know whether you can play recorded videos on your home DVD player
•
Yes, you can. DVDs recorded with the Media Center can be played on a home DVD player.
Memory
You see a “Memory error” message
•
Make sure that the memory module is inserted correctly in the memory bay slot. For more information about
installing memory, see “Adding or replacing memory modules” on page 103
.
•
Use the Memory Diagnostics Tool to help determine if a memory module is failing.
To check the memory:
1
Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control
Panel window opens.
2
Click System and Maintenance.
3
Click Administrative Tools.
4
Double-click Memory Diagnostics Tool, then follow the on-screen instructions.
Help
For more information about troubleshooting memory errors, click
Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword memory error in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
You see a “Not enough memory” error message
•
Close all programs, then restart your notebook.
126
www.gateway.com
Memory card reader
Drive letter for the memory card slot does not appear in the My Computer window
•
Reboot your notebook.
Modem (cable or DSL)
The modem does not connect
•
Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the
Ethernet network jack and not the optional modem jack.
For the location of your network jack, see
.
•
See the documentation that came with your modem for additional troubleshooting information.
Modem (dial-up)
Your modem does not dial or does not connect
•
Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the optional modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack.
For the location of your modem jack, see
.
•
Make sure that your notebook is connected to the telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone.
•
Make sure that the modem cable is less than 6 feet
(1.8 meters) long.
•
Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your telephone line, then check for a dial tone by plugging a working telephone into the telephone wall jack.
•
If you have additional telephone services such as call waiting, call messaging, or voice mail, make sure that all messages are cleared and call waiting is disabled before using the modem. Contact your telephone service to get the correct code to temporarily disable the service. Also make sure that the modem dialing properties are set appropriately.
Help
For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword dialing in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
127
128
To check the dialing properties:
1
Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control
Panel window opens.
2
Click Hardware and Sound.
3
Click the Phone and Modem Options. The Phone
and Modem Options dialog box opens.
4
Click the Dialing Rules tab.
5
Click the location from which you are dialing, then click Edit. The Edit Location dialog box opens.
6
Make sure that all settings are correct.
•
Disconnect any answering machine, fax machine, or printer that is on the same line as the modem. Do not connect these devices to the same telephone line as the modem.
•
Make sure that you are not using a digital, rollover, or
PBX line. These lines do not work with your modem.
•
Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping sounds). Line noise is a common problem that can cause the modem to connect at a slower rate, abort downloads, or even disconnect. The faster the modem, the less line noise it can tolerate and still work correctly.
Listen to the line using your telephone. Dial a single number (such as 1). When the dial tone stops, listen for line noise. Wiggle the modem cable to see if that makes a difference. Make sure that the connectors are free from corrosion and all screws in the wall or telephone wall jack are secure.
You can also call your telephone service and have the telephone line checked for noise or low line levels.
•
Try another telephone line (either a different telephone number in your house or a telephone line at a different location). If you can connect on this line, call your telephone service to fix the original line.
•
Try connecting with the modem at a lower connection speed. If reducing the connect speed lets you connect, call your telephone service. The telephone line may be too noisy.
www.gateway.com
You cannot connect to the Internet
•
The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact your
ISP for technical support.
•
See if the modem works with a different communications program. The problem may be with just one program.
•
Review the troubleshooting information under
Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K
•
Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise, telephone service provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may lower the speed even further.
If your notebook has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K. If your notebook has a v.92 modem, the speed at which you can upload data is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support
48K uploads.
Your fax communications program only sends and receives faxes at 14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem
•
Current fax technology only supports a maximum send and receive rate of 14,400 bps.
The modem is not recognized by your notebook
•
Make sure that the line connected to the modem is working and plugged into the appropriate port on your notebook. For the location of your optional modem jack, see
.
•
If the modem shares the telephone line with another device, make sure that the telephone line is not in use
(for example, someone is on the telephone, or another modem is in use).
•
Use a different modem cable. Some telephone cables do not meet required cable standards and may cause problems with the modem connection.
•
Shut down and restart your notebook.
•
Run Windows modem diagnostics.
To run modem diagnostics:
1
Close all open programs.
2
Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control
Panel window opens.
3
Click Hardware and Sound.
129
4
Click Phone and Modem Options. The Phone and
Modem Options dialog box opens.
5
Click the Modems tab.
6
Click your modem, then click Properties. The Modem
Properties dialog box opens.
7
Click the Diagnostic tab, then click Query Modem.
If information about the modem appears, the modem passed diagnostics. If no modem information is available, a white screen appears with no data, or if you get an error such as port already
open or the modem has failed to respond, the modem did not pass diagnostics.
Help
For more information about modem troubleshooting, click
Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword
modem
troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
The modem is noisy when it dials and connects
•
When your modem tries to connect to another modem, it begins handshaking. Handshaking is a digital “getting acquainted” conversation between the two modems that establishes connection speeds and communication protocols. You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems first connect. If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can turn down the modem volume.
To turn down the modem volume:
1
Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control
Panel window opens.
2
Click Hardware and Sound.
3
Click Phone and Modem Options. The Phone and
Modem Options dialog box opens.
4
Click the Modems tab.
5
Click the modem you want to adjust, then click
Properties. The Modem Properties dialog box opens.
6
Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker
volume control.
7
Click OK twice to close the Phone and Modem
Options dialog box.
Mouse
See also “Touchpad” on page 138
.
130
www.gateway.com
The external mouse does not work
•
Make sure that the mouse cable is plugged in correctly.
•
Shut down and restart your notebook.
•
Remove all extension cables and switch boxes.
•
Try a mouse you know is working to make sure that the mouse port works.
The external mouse works erratically
•
Clean the mouse.
•
Some mouse pad patterns “confuse” optical mice. Try the mouse on a different surface.
Networks (wired)
Help
For more information about network troubleshooting, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword network troubleshooting in the
Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
You cannot see the other computers on your wired Ethernet network
•
Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the
Ethernet jack on your notebook. Make sure that the other end is plugged into a router. For the location of
your network jack, see “Left” on page 7
.
•
Make sure that all computers are plugged into a powered electrical outlet and turned on.
•
Make sure that the router is plugged into a powered electrical outlet and turned on. Most routers have lights that indicate they are working. For more information, see the documentation that came with your router.
•
Make sure that all computers on your network have the same workgroup name.
•
Make sure that all computers are using the same Subnet
Mask.
•
If you assigned IP addresses to the computers, make sure that all computers have different IP addresses. For home networks, IP addresses should be 192.168.N.N where N is a number you assign between 0 and 254. The first N should be the same for all computers on your network and the second N should be different for all computers on your network.
131
132
Your wired Ethernet network is running slower than you expect
•
If your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect, check the speed of each Ethernet component.
For best results, all Ethernet components should be standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or
10/100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or
10/100/1000 Mbps). A mixture of Ethernet, Fast
Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet components will result in your network running at the slowest component speed.
You cannot connect to your company network
•
Every network is unique. Contact your company computer department or network administrator for help.
Internet Explorer is unable to access the Internet
•
Reset the power on your cable or DSL modem and your access point. This reestablishes communication between your Internet Service Provider and your modem and between your modem and your access point.
•
If you previously accessed the Internet through a dial-up modem, Internet Explorer may not be set up to access the Internet through a network. Remove the dial-up connection in the Internet Options in Internet Explorer.
You cannot connect to your home network
•
If your notebook is a member of a domain at your workplace, you may not be able to connect your notebook to your home network workgroup to access shared files or printers on your home network. You may, however, be able to access the Internet through your home network.
Caution
If your notebook was a member of a domain before you join a workgroup, it is disjoined from the domain and your computer account disabled. Contact your company computer department or network administrator for more information.
•
Every home network is unique. See the documentation that came with your network equipment for troubleshooting information.
www.gateway.com
Networks (wireless)
You turned wireless networking on, but it takes a while to connect
•
When wireless networking is turned on, it automatically scans for available connections. The scan can take approximately 30 seconds to complete.
Your connection on the network seems intermittent or your wireless network is running slower than you expect
•
The speed of a wireless network is related to signal strength. Signal strength is affected by the distance between your wireless network devices, by radio interference, and by interference from natural obstructions such as walls, ceilings, floors, and doors.
If your wireless network is running slower than you expect, you should check your network signal strength.
If you find the signal strength is low, try moving to a new location to increase the signal strength.
Important
Note any antenna placement constraints in the access point user guide because the speed of a wireless network is related to signal strength. Signal strength is affected by the distance between your wireless network devices, by radio interference, and by interference from natural obstructions such as walls, floors, and doors.
To check the signal strength:
1
Click (Start), right-click Network, then click
Properties. The Network and Sharing Center window opens.
2
Click View status for the network connection. The
Wireless Network Connection Status dialog box opens. The meter shows the signal strength for wireless networking on your computer if other computers with the same network name are within range of your computer.
You are in a wireless network, you can see the network, but cannot communicate, send files, print, or get to the Web
•
If your access point uses WEP, go to the Wireless
Networking Properties window and make sure that both the WAP and the WLAN in the computer have matching
WEP keys.
133
134
You are in a wireless network, but no available networks are listed in the Connect to a network dialog box
•
If the network you are attempting to access does not broadcast its SSID, you need to request the SSID from the administrator and add that network’s information into the wireless utility.
•
You may want to try entering
ANY as the SSID, which will make the computer try to auto-detect the network.
Your wireless network is listed as a preferred network, but it has an “x” on it
•
An x means your preferred network is not currently available or you are not currently in range to connect.
Internet Explorer is unable to access the Internet
•
Reset the power on your cable or DSL modem and your access point. This reestablishes communication between your Internet Service Provider and your modem and between your modem and your access point.
•
If you previously accessed the Internet through a dial-up modem, Internet Explorer may not be set up to access the Internet through a network. Remove the dial-up connection in the Internet Options in Internet Explorer.
You cannot see other computers on your network
•
Your notebook may not have the same workgroup name as the other computers on your network. For more information, see “Naming the computers and workgroup” in your online User Guide.
•
If your notebook was previously connected directly to your cable or DSL modem, and your ISP requires you to use a static IP address, your notebook is not set up to use a DHCP server. Modify the network properties so your notebook is set up for using a DHCP server.
You cannot connect to your network
•
If your notebook is a member of a domain at your workplace, you may not be able to connect your notebook to your home network workgroup to access shared files or printers on your home network. You may, however, be able to access the Internet through your home network.
Caution
If your notebook was a member of a domain before you join a workgroup, it is disjoined from the domain and your computer account disabled. Contact your company computer department or network administrator for more information.
www.gateway.com
Passwords
Your notebook does not accept your password
Make sure that C
APS LOCK
and N
UM LOCK
are turned off, then retype the password.
You forgot your startup password
The password feature (which is set in the BIOS Setup utility) is very secure, with no easy way to recover a forgotten password.
You must return your notebook for repair. Call Gateway
Customer Care for instructions.
Power
Your notebook is not working on AC power
•
Make sure that your AC power adapter is connected correctly to your notebook. For instructions on connecting the AC power adapter, see
.
•
If your notebook is plugged into a surge protector, make sure that the surge protector is connected securely to an electrical outlet, turned on, and working correctly. To test the outlet, plug a working device, such as a lamp, into the outlet and turn it on.
•
Make sure that the AC power adapter cables are free from cuts or damage. Replace any damaged cables.
Your notebook is not working on battery power
•
Check the power management settings. For more information about using power management settings, see
“Changing notebook power settings” on page 72 .
•
Make sure that the battery is installed correctly. For instructions on inserting your battery, see
“Changing batteries” on page 67
.
•
Make sure that the battery is fully recharged. For more information about recharging the battery, see
“Recharging the battery” on page 66 .
•
Make sure that the battery is calibrated correctly. For instructions on recalibrating your battery, see
“Recalibrating the battery” on page 68
.
•
Let the battery return to room temperature.
135
Printer
Help
For more information about printer troubleshooting, click Start, then click
Help and Support. Type the keyword printer troubleshooting in the
Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
The printer will not turn on
•
Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have an online/offline button that you may need to press.
•
Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an
AC power source.
The printer is on but will not print
•
Check the cable between the printer and your notebook.
Make sure that it is connected to the correct port.
•
Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have an online/offline button that you may need to press so the printer can start printing. Press the button to put the printer online.
•
If the printer you want to print to is not the default printer, make sure that you have selected it in the printer setup.
To set a default printer:
1
Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control
Panel window opens.
2
Click Hardware and Sound.
3
Click Printers.
4
Right-click the name of the printer you want to be the default printer, then click Set as Default Printer.
•
Reinstall the printer driver. See the guide that came with your printer for instructions on installing the printer driver.
You see a “Printer queue is full” error message
•
Make sure that the printer is not set to work offline.
To make sure that the printer is not set to work offline:
1
Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control
Panel window opens.
2
Click Hardware and Sound.
3
Click Printers.
136
www.gateway.com
4
If the printer status is Offline, right-click the name of the printer you want to use, then click Use Printer
Online to set the printer to work online.
•
Wait until files have been printed before sending additional files to the printer.
•
If you print large files or many files at one time, you may want to add additional memory to the printer. See the printer documentation for instructions for adding additional memory.
You see a “Printer is out of paper” error message
After adding paper, make sure that the printer is online. Most printers have an online/offline button that you need to press after adding paper.
Sound
Help
For more information about troubleshooting sound issues, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword sound troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press E
NTER
.
You are not getting sound from the built-in speakers
•
Make sure that headphones are not plugged into the headphone jack.
•
Make sure that the volume control on your notebook is turned up. For more information about using your
volume control, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 45 .
•
Make sure that the Windows volume control is turned up. For instructions on how to adjust the volume control in Windows, see
“Adjusting the volume” on page 45
.
•
Make sure that Mute controls are turned off.
Status indicators
The status indicators are not functioning
•
Make sure the status indicators are turned on. Press
F
N
+F1 to toggle the indicators.
137
Touchpad
Touchpad is not working
•
Make sure the touchpad is turned on. For more information, see “Changing mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online User Guide.
The notebook is not responding when you click or tap on the touchpad
•
Turn on the touchpad. For instructions on how to adjust the touchpad settings, see “Changing mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online User Guide.
The pointer moves unexpectedly
•
Clean the touchpad with a damp cloth (water only) and wipe it dry.
•
Adjust the touchpad settings. For instructions on how to adjust the touchpad settings, see “Changing mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online
User Guide.
Video
The projector, monitor, or television is not working
•
Make sure that you have pressed F
N
+F4 to activate the external monitor option.
•
Make sure that the monitor is turned on and that the video cable is connected correctly.
Telephone support
Before calling Gateway Customer Care
If you have a technical problem with your notebook, follow these recommendations before contacting Gateway Customer
Care:
•
Make sure that your notebook is connected correctly to a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use a surge protector, make sure that it is turned on.
138
www.gateway.com
•
If a peripheral device, such as a keyboard or mouse, does not appear to work, make sure that all cables are plugged in securely.
•
If you have recently installed hardware or software, make sure that you have installed it according to the instructions provided with it. If you did not purchase the hardware or software from Gateway, see the manufacturer’s documentation and technical support resources.
•
If you have “how to” questions about using a program, see:
•
Online Help
•
Printed documentation
•
The Microsoft Windows documentation
•
The software publisher’s Web site
•
See the troubleshooting section of this chapter.
Warning
To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your notebook problem if:
• Power cords or plugs are damaged
• Liquid has been spilled into your notebook
• Your notebook was dropped
• The case was damaged
Instead, unplug your notebook and contact a qualified computer technician.
•
Have your customer ID, serial number, and order number available, along with a detailed description of your problem, including the exact text of any error messages, and the steps you have taken.
•
Make sure that your notebook is nearby at the time of your call. The technician may have you follow troubleshooting steps.
•
The label on the bottom of your notebook includes the
Gateway Customer Care telephone number. For more information, see
“Gateway contact information” on page 2
.
139
140

Public link updated
The public link to your chat has been updated.
Advertisement
Key features
- Power button
- Status Indicators
- Keyboard
- Touchpad
- Optional Fingerprint Reader