Acer a-550 Series manual Key component upgrades, Memory upgrade, Installing memory

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TMa550.book Page 47 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 10:57 AM

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Key component upgrades

Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance.

Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.

Memory upgrade

This notebook computer comes with one memory upgrade slot that accepts a soDIMM (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module). It supports PC-133 Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM).

Installing memory

Follow these steps to install memory:

1Turn off the computer, unplug the AC adapter (if connected) and remove the battery pack. Then turn the computer over to access its base.

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Contents TravelMate α-550 series TMa550.book Page ii Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM First things first Basic care and tips for using your computerYour guides Turning your computer on and offTaking care of your AC adapter Taking care of your computerCleaning and servicing Taking care of your battery packTMa550.book Page vi Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Contents Moving with your computer Peripherals and optionsTroubleshooting Appendix a Specifications Appendix B Notices IndexSoftware TMa550.book Page x Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Your computer TMa550.book Page 2 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Front view Tour of your computerDescription Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Performance FeaturesMultimedia ConnectivityExpansion Display Video performanceSimultaneous display Function Icon Description IndicatorsTMa550.book Page 13 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM TMa550.book Page 14 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Special keys KeyboardLock keys Lock Key DescriptionEmbedded keypad Desired Access Num lock On Pad lock OnKey Description Windows keysHotKey Function Description HotkeysKeyboard ergonomics Touchpad basics TouchpadFunction Left Button Right Tap Launch keys Icon Description Storage Connectivity options Ethernet and LANFax/data modem Adjusting the volume Using the Audio DJ featureAudio Passwords Securing your computerSecurity notch TMa550.book Page 28 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Battery power TMa550.book Page 30 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Battery pack characteristics Battery packInstalling and removing the battery pack Using a battery pack for the first timeOperating on battery power Checking the battery level Charging the batteryOptimizing 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 External display devices Using simultaneous displayExternal monitor External display with s-video inputExternal keyboard External input devicesExternal keypad External pointing devicePrinter Audio devices Expansion devices PC Card slotsInserting a card Ejecting a card Disconnecting USB devicesIeee Disconnecting Ieee 1394 devicesBattery pack Miscellaneous optionsAC adapter Key component upgrades Memory upgradeInstalling memory 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 Preparing the computer Moving aroundWhat to bring to short meetings What to bring to long meetingsTaking the computer home What to bring with youSpecial considerations 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 Navigating the Bios Setup Utility Bios Setup UtilityMain Parameter Description System Devices System DevicesSecurity SecurityMay consist of up to eight alphanumeric characters A-Z, a-z Setting a passwordChanging a password Removing a passwordOthers Others screen contains various parameter settingsBoot BootExit ExitTMa550.book Page 74 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Troubleshooting TMa550.book Page 76 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Frequently-asked questions Nothing appears on the screenImage is not full-screen No audio from the computer Floppy drive cannot access a disketteExternal microphone does not work Keyboard does not respondCD or DVD drive cannot access a disc Want to set up my location to use the internal modemPrinter does not work Charged? Error Messages Corrective Action Error messagesTMa550.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 Memory MicroprocessorData storage Display and videoAudio Weight and dimensionsKeyboard and pointing device PortsEnvironment PowerOperating system OptionsTMa550.book Page 90 Wednesday, October 3, 2001 1057 AM Appendix B This appendix lists the general notices for your computer Use conditions FCC noticeModem notices Remarque ¶ l’intention des utilisateurs canadiensCTR Important safety instructions Laser compliance statement Year 2000 compliance statement Lithium battery statementMacrovision copyright protection notice LCD pixel statementIndex 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.