Acer a-550 Series manual Launch keys

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TMa550.book Page 22 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 10:57 AM

22

1 Getting familiar with your computer

Launch keys

Located near the front end of the computer (between the speakers) are launch keys that perform various functions.

Depending on the set mode, these launch keys may be used to launch applications or play back music CDs.

Note: The Audio DJ feature is also available even when the computer is off.

#

Item

Icon

Description

 

 

 

 

1

Mode switch

 

This sets the launch key mode. Slide the

 

 

 

switch to the desired mode.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AP (Application) mode

Lock mode

Audio DJ mode

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Contents TravelMate α-550 series TMa550.book Page ii Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Basic care and tips for using your computer First things firstYour guides Turning your computer on and offTaking care of your computer Taking care of your AC adapterTaking care of your battery pack Cleaning and servicingTMa550.book Page vi Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Contents Peripherals and options Moving with your computerSoftware TroubleshootingAppendix a Specifications Appendix B Notices Index TMa550.book Page x Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Your computer TMa550.book Page 2 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Tour of your computer Front viewDescription Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Features PerformanceMultimedia ConnectivityExpansion Simultaneous display DisplayVideo performance Indicators Function Icon DescriptionTMa550.book Page 13 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM TMa550.book Page 14 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Keyboard Special keysLock keys Lock Key DescriptionDesired Access Num lock On Pad lock On Embedded keypadWindows keys Key DescriptionHotkeys HotKey Function DescriptionKeyboard ergonomics Touchpad Touchpad basicsFunction Left Button Right Tap Launch keys Icon Description Storage Fax/data modem Connectivity optionsEthernet and LAN Audio Adjusting the volumeUsing the Audio DJ feature Security notch PasswordsSecuring your computer TMa550.book Page 28 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Battery power TMa550.book Page 30 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Battery pack Battery pack characteristicsInstalling and removing the battery pack Using a battery pack for the first timeOperating on battery power Charging the battery Checking the battery levelOptimizing battery life Using the Windows battery meterBattery-low warning Situation Recommended Action Power management Options TMa550.book Page 38 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Using simultaneous display External display devicesExternal monitor External display with s-video inputExternal input devices External keyboardExternal keypad External pointing devicePrinter Audio devices Inserting a card Expansion devicesPC Card slots Disconnecting USB devices Ejecting a cardDisconnecting Ieee 1394 devices IeeeAC adapter Battery packMiscellaneous options Installing memory Key component upgradesMemory upgrade TMa550.book Page 48 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Hard disk upgrade TMa550.book Page 50 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Computer TMa550.book Page 52 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Disconnecting from the desktop Moving around Preparing the computerWhat to bring to short meetings What to bring to long meetingsSpecial considerations Taking the computer homeWhat to bring with you Setting up a home office Traveling with the computer Traveling internationally with the computer Software TMa550.book Page 60 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM System software Easy Button Mail Detector Bios Setup Utility Navigating the Bios Setup UtilityMain Parameter Description System Devices System DevicesSecurity SecuritySetting a password May consist of up to eight alphanumeric characters A-Z, a-zRemoving a password Changing a passwordOthers screen contains various parameter settings OthersBoot BootExit ExitTMa550.book Page 74 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Troubleshooting TMa550.book Page 76 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Image is not full-screen Frequently-asked questionsNothing appears on the screen Floppy drive cannot access a diskette No audio from the computerExternal microphone does not work Keyboard does not respondPrinter does not work CD or DVD drive cannot access a discWant to set up my location to use the internal modem Charged? Error messages Error Messages Corrective ActionTMa550.book Page 82 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM TMa550.book Page 83 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM TMa550.book Page 84 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Specifications TMa550.book Page 86 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Microprocessor MemoryData storage Display and videoWeight and dimensions AudioKeyboard and pointing device PortsPower EnvironmentOperating system OptionsTMa550.book Page 90 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Appendix B This appendix lists the general notices for your computer FCC notice Use conditionsCTR Modem noticesRemarque ¶ l’intention des utilisateurs canadiens Important safety instructions Laser compliance statement Lithium battery statement Year 2000 compliance statementLCD pixel statement Macrovision copyright protection noticeIndex TMa550.book Page 100 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Password 102

a-550 Series specifications

The Acer A-550 Series is a noteworthy entry into the competitive landscape of mid-range laptops, attracting attention for its exceptional balance of performance, design, and affordability. Tailored for everyday users, students, and professionals, the A-550 series aims to deliver a reliable computing experience, whether for productivity, entertainment, or casual use.

One of the standout characteristics of the A-550 Series is its advanced display technology. The series features a 15.6-inch Full HD screen with IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology. This ensures vibrant color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for multimedia consumption and creative work. The display is complemented by thin bezels, providing a modern aesthetic while maximizing screen real estate.

In terms of performance, the A-550 Series is powered by Intel’s latest generation processors, ranging from efficient Core i3 models for basic tasks to potent Core i7 options for more demanding applications. This versatility allows users to choose a configuration that best meets their workload requirements. Paired with up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the laptop provides responsive multitasking capabilities, enabling users to run several applications simultaneously without lag.

Storage options in the A-550 Series include both traditional hard drives and faster solid-state drives (SSD), catering to different needs for speed and capacity. The SSD option ensures quick boot times and rapid file access, enhancing overall system responsiveness, while the HDD provides ample storage for multimedia files and documents.

Connectivity is another strong suit of the A-550 Series, featuring a comprehensive selection of ports. Users can leverage USB 3.2 ports for high-speed data transfer, an HDMI port for connecting to larger displays, and a headphone/microphone combo jack. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 ensures that users benefit from faster wireless connectivity and reduced latency, essential for smooth video conferencing and online streaming.

Battery life is a critical consideration for mobile users, and the A-550 Series does not disappoint. With an impressive duration of up to 10 hours on a single charge, users can comfortably work or enjoy media on-the-go without constantly searching for power outlets.

The build quality of the A-550 Series is robust, with a sleek and lightweight design that makes it easily portable. Acer has also integrated proprietary technologies like BlueLightShield to reduce eye strain, ensuring that users can work for extended periods comfortably.

Overall, the Acer A-550 Series offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and user-friendly design, making it an attractive option for a wide range of users seeking a dependable laptop without breaking the bank.