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Aspire 5251/5551G/5551 Series Service Guide Service guide files and updates are available on the ACER/CSD web; for more information, please refer to http://csd.acer.com.tw PRINTED IN TAIWAN...
Conventions The following conventions are used in this manual: SCREEN MESSAGES NOTE WARNING CAUTION IMPORTANT NOTE: This symbol where placed in the Service Guide designates a component that should be recycled according to the local regulations. Denotes actual messages that appear on screen.
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DIFFERENT part number code to those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use the list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.
16.7 million colors (Aspire 5251/5551/5551G) • External resolution / refresh rates: • VGA port up to 2560 x 1440: 75 Hz (Aspire 5251/5551) • VGA port up to 2048 x 1536: 85 Hz (Aspire 5551G) • HDMI™ port up to 1920 x 1080: 60 Hz (Aspire 5251/5551/5551G) •...
• HDMI™ port with HDCP support • External display (VGA) port • Headphone/speaker/line-out jack • Microphone-in jack • Ethernet (RJ-45) port • DC-in jack for AC adapter Optional Items • 1 GB / 2 GB / 4 GB DDR3 1066 MHz soDIMM module •...
Your Acer Notebook tour Front View Icon Item Acer Crystal Eye Web camera for video communication webcam (for selected models). Display screen Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), displays computer output. Indicates when the hard disk drive is active. Communication Indicates the computer’s wireless connectivitoy indicator device status.
Icon NOTE: The front panel indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed. Closed Front View Icon Left View Icon Chapter 1 Item Indicates the computer’s power status. Power Indicates the computer’s battery status. Battery 1. Charging: The light shows amber when the battery is charging.
Icon Right View Icon USB 2.0 ports Optical drive Optical disk access indicator Optical drive eject button Emergency eject hole Kensington lock slot Item USB 2.0 ports Connect to USB 2.0 devices (e.g. USB mouse, USB camera). Microphone-in Accepts input from external microphones. jack Headphones/ Connects to audio line-out devices...
Bottom View Icon Indicators The computer has several easy-to-read status indicators. Icon Power Battery Communication indicator Chapter 1 Item Battery bay Houses the computer's battery pack. Battery release Releases the battery for removal. latch Hard disk bay Houses the computer's hard disk (secured with screws).
TouchPad Basics The following items show you how to use the TouchPad: • Move your finger across the TouchPad (1) to move the cursor. • Press the left (2) and right (3) buttons located beneath the TouchPad to perform selection and execution functions.
Using the Keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys. Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad The keyboard has two lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase.
Windows Keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Windows key Pressed alone, this key has the same effect as clicking on the Windows Start button; it launches the Start menu. It can also be used with other keys to provide a variety of functions: <...
Hot Keys The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen brightness, volume output and the BIOS utility. To activate hot keys, press and hold the <Fn> key before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination. Hotkey Icon <Fn>...
S1g4 1.8 GHz 2 MB S1g4 Fan Speed (rpm) 2500 2900 3200 3600 4000 4000 Core Acer P/N Voltage 35 W 25 W 25 W 25 W 35 W 35 W 35 W 25 W 25 W SPL Spec (dBA)
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Windows Idle, HDD spinning Fan 3 Play Movie (read from HDD), Play TV (TV tuner sku) Fan 4 3DMark06,Prime95, Prime95+Play TV(TV tuner sku), acer screen saver, HDD spinning Fan 5 TAT100% or Thermanow100%,3DMark06, at ambient 35C, HDD spinning ODM’s test software...
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• Suspend to RAM (S3)/Disk (S4) • Various hot-keys for system control • Support SMBIOS 2.3, PCI2.2. • Refer to Acer BIOS specification. • DMI utility for BIOS serial number configurable/asset tag • Support PXE • Support Y2K solution •...
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Onboard LAN Item Vendor/model name Features Wireless LAN Item Vendor/model name Protocol Interface Antenna Battery Item Vendor & model name Battery Type Pack capacity Normal Voltage Package configuration Chapter 1 Specification Broadcom 57780KMLG for GIGA LAN • Integrated 10/100/10000BASE-T transceiver •...
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System Power Management ACPI mode Mech. Off (G3) Soft Off (G2/S5) Working (G0/S0) Sleeping State (S3) Sleeping State (S4) Power and Keyboard Controller Item Controller Total number of keypads Windows logo key Hotkeys Hard Disk Drive Interface Item Vendor/model name Seagate Capacity (MB) 160, 250,...
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Super-Multi Drive Module Item Vendor & model HLDS GT20N name Performance With CD Diskette Specification Transfer rate (MB/ Sustained: sec) 3,600 KB/s (24x) max. Buffer Memory 2 MB Interface SATA Applicable disc DVD-ROM: formats 4.7GB (Single Layer) 8.5GB (Dual Layer) DVD-R: 3.95GB (Ver.
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LCD 15.6” Item Vendor/model name Screen Diagonal (mm) Display resolution (pixels) Pixel Pitch Display Mode Typical White Luminance (cd/m (also called Brightness) Contrast Ratio Response Time (Optical Rise Time/Fall Time) msec Luminance Uniformity Electrical Interface Support Color Viewing Angle (up/down/right/ left) Temperature Range (°C) Operating...
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Card Reader Item Part Name Package General Features Specification RealTek RT5160 5-in-1 card reader • Push-push type, with dummy card • Built-in 250mA Power MOS for memory card • Over Current Protection and Over Temperature Protection • Power saving • Power Down when no memory card is inserted •...
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Provides 10-foot GUI for easy menu navigation on Windows Media Center • Microphone Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC), Noise Suppression (NS), and Beam Forming(BF)technology for voice application • Smart multiple streaming operation • HDMI audio driver for AMD platform • Acer exclusive software features...
System Utilities BIOS Setup Utility The BIOS Setup Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/ Output System). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run Setup.
Aspire 5251/5551G/5551 BIOS Information The Information screen displays a summary of the computer hardware information. Information Main Security C P U T y p e C P U T y p e C P U S p e e d...
Main The Main screen allows the user to set the system time and date as well as enable and disable boot options and recovery. Information Main S y s t e m Ti m e : S y s t e m Ti m e : S y s t e m D a t e : S y s t e m D a t e : To t a l M e m o r y :...
Security The Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use. NOTE: System BIOS does not support Trusted Platform Module (TPM). Information Main Security S u p e r v i s o r P a s s w o r d I s S u p e r v i s o r P a s s w o r d I s U s e r P a s s w o r d I s U s e r P a s s w o r d I s...
Setting a Password Follow these steps as you set the user or the supervisor password: Use the ↑ and ↓ keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the Enter key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears: Type a password in the “Enter New Password” field. The password length can not exceed 8 alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, not case sensitive).
Changing a Password Use the ↑ and ↓ keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the Enter key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears. Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press Enter. Type a password in the Enter New Password field.
Boot This menu allows the user to decide the order of boot devices to load the operating system. Bootable devices includes the USB diskette drives, the onboard hard disk drive and the DVD drive in the module bay. Select Boot menu to select specific devices to support boot. Information Main B o o t p r i o r i t y o r d e r :...
Exit The Exit screen allows you to save or discard any changes you made and quit the BIOS Utility. Information Main E x i t S a v i n g C h a n g e s E x i t S a v i n g C h a n g e s E x i t D i s c a r d i n g C h a n g e s E x i t D i s c a r d i n g C h a n g e s L o a d S e t u p D e f a u l t s...
BIOS Flash Utilities The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions: • New versions of system programs • New features or options • Restore a BIOS when it becomes corrupted. Use the Flash utility to update the system BIOS Flash ROM. NOTE: If you do not have a crisis recovery diskette at hand, then you should create a Crisis Recovery Diskette before you use the Flash utility.
DOS Flash Utility Perform the following steps to use the DOS Flash Utility: Press F2 during boot to enter the Setup Menu. Select Boot Menu to modify the boot priority order, for example, if using USB HDD to Update BIOS, move USB HDD to position 1.
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In flash BIOS, the message Please do not remove AC Power Source displays. NOTE: If the AC power is not connected, the following message displays. Plug in the AC power to continue. Flash is complete when the message Flash programming complete displays. Chapter 2...
WinFlash Utility Perform the following steps to use the WinFlash Utility: Double-click the WinFlash executable. Click OK to begin the update. A progress screen displays. Chapter 2...
Remove HDD/BIOS Password Utilities This section provides you with details about removing HDD/BIOS password: Remove HDD Password: If you key in the wrong HDD password three times, an error is generated. To reset the HDD password, perform the following steps: After the error is displayed, select the Enter Unlock Password option on the screen.
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Removing BIOS Passwords: To clear the User or Supervisor passwords, open the DIMM door and use a metal instrument to short the J1 point. Cleaning BIOS Passwords To clean the User or Supervisor passwords, perform the following steps: From a DOS prompt, execute clnpwd.exe Press 1 or 2 to clean the desired password shown on the screen.
Using Boot Sequence Selector The Boot Sequence Selector allows the boot order to be changed without accessing the BIOS. To use Boot Sequence Selector, perform the following steps: Enter into DOS. Execute BS.exe to display the usage screen. Select the desired boot sequence by entering the corresponding sequence. For example, enter BS 2 to change the boot sequence to HDD | CD ROM | LAN | Floppy.
The following examples show the commands and the corresponding output information. Read DMI Information from Memory Input: dmitools /r Output: Manufacturer (Type1, Offset04h): Acer Product Name (Type1, Offset05h): Aspire xxxxx Serial Number (Type1, Offset07h): 01234567890123456789 UUID String (Type1, Offset08h): xxxxxxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxxxxxxxxxx Write Manufacturer Name to EEPROM...
Using the LAN MAC EEPROM Utility You can use the MAC.BAT utility to write the MAC.CFG file to the EEPROM under DOS mode. Use a text editor (for example: Notepad) to open the MAC.CFG file. You can see the MAC.CFG contents as below: WriteData = ‘001122334455' StartAddr=7A...
Machine Disassembly and Replacement IMPORTANT: The outside housing and color may vary from the mass produced model. This chapter contains step-by-step procedures on how to disassemble the notebook computer for maintenance and troubleshooting. Disassembly Requirements To disassemble the computer, you need the following tools: Wrist grounding strap and conductive mat for preventing electrostatic discharge •...
Pre-disassembly Instructions Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure that you do the following: 1. Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals. 2. Unplug the AC adapter and all power and signal cables from the system. 3.
Disassembly Process IMPORTANT: The LCD Module cannot be disassembled outside of factory conditions. If any part of the LCD Module is faulty, such as the camera, antenna or LCD panel, the whole module must be replaced. The disassembly process is divided into the following stages: External module disassembly •...
External Module Disassembly Process IMPORTANT: The outside housing and color may vary from the mass produced model. External Modules Disassembly Flowchart The flowchart below gives you a graphic representation of the external module disassembly sequence and instructs you on the components that need to be removed during servicing. For example, if you want to remove the keyboard, you must first remove the switch board.
Removing the Battery Pack 1. Turn computer over. Slide the battery lock in the direction shown. 2. Slide and hold the battery release latch to the release position (1), then lift out the battery pack from the main unit (2). NOTE: Please follow local regulations for disposal.
Removing the Optical Drive Module 1. See “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 47. 2. Remove the screw securing the ODD module. Step ODD Module M2.5*8 3. Pull the optical drive module out from the chassis. Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
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4. Remove the two (2) screws securing the ODD bracket and remove the ODD bracket from the optical disk drive module. Step Size Quantity Screw Type ODD Bracket M2*3 5. Remove the ODD bezel by prying the top edge away and clear of the module. Chapter 3...
Removing the Logic Lower Door 1. Remove two (2) screws from the logic lower door. Step Logic lower door M2.5*8 2. Lift the door beginning from the inner edge as shown. 3. Lift the door clear of the device, exposing the HDD, DIMM, and WLAN modules. Chapter 3 Size Quantity...
Removing the 3G Cover 1. Remove one (1) screw from the 3G Cover. Step 3G Cover M2*3 2. Lift the 3G Cover from the right edge first, then remove completely. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Removing the DIMM Module 1. See “Removing the Logic Lower Door” on page 51. 2. Push out the release latches on both sides of the DIMM socket to release the DIMM module. 3. Remove the DIMM module. 4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the second DIMM module if present. Chapter 3...
Removing the WLAN Module 1. See “Removing the Logic Lower Door” on page 51. 2. Disconnect the antenna cables from the WLAN Board. NOTE: Cable placement is Black to the MAIN terminal and White to the AUX terminal. 3. Move the antenna away and remove the two (1) screws to release the WLAN Board. Step WLAN Module M2*3...
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4. Detach the WLAN Board from the WLAN socket. NOTE: When reattaching the antennas, ensure the cables are tucked into the chassis to prevent damage. Chapter 3...
Removing the Hard Disk Drive Module 1. See “Removing the Logic Lower Door” on page 51. 2. Using the pull-tab, slide the HDD Module in the direction of the arrow to disconnect the interface. 3. Lift the HDD Module clear of the HDD bay. NOTE: To prevent damage to device, avoid pressing down on it or placing heavy objects on top of it.
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4. Remove the four (4) screws (two each side) securing the hard disk to the carrier. Step Size Quantity Screw Type HDD Carrier M3*3 5. Remove the HDD from the carrier. Chapter 3...
Main Unit Disassembly Process Main Unit Disassembly Flowchart Remove External Modules before proceeding Remove Power Board Remove Left Speaker Module Remove Right Speaker Module Remove USB Board Screw List Step Upper Cover M2.5*5 Lower Cover M2.5*8 Battery Bay M2*3 Left Speaker Module M2*3 Right Speaker Module M2*3...
Removing the Keyboard 1. Unlock the six (6) keyboard locks. 2. Pry up the centre of the Keyboard and rotate it upward away from the Upper Cover. 3. Turn the keyboard over on to the TouchPad area to expose the FFC connector. Chapter 3...
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4. Open the locking latch and disconnect the FFC from the mainboard. 5. Lift the keyboard clear of the Upper Cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the Upper Cover 1. See “External Module Disassembly Process” on page 46. 2. Turn the computer over. Remove the eleven (11) screws on the lower cover and four (4) screws from the battery bay. Step Lower Cover (red M2.5*8 callout) Battery Bay M2*3...
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3. Turn the computer over and disconnect the following four (4) cables from the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
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4. Release the locking latch on A. 6. Release the locking latch on B and remove the cable as shown. 7. Release the locking latch on C and remove the cable as shown. NOTE: Avoid pulling on cables directly to prevent damage to the connectors. NOTE: Use the pull-tabs on FFCs whenever available to prevent damage.
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9. Remove the seven (7) screws on the Upper Cover as shown. Step Size Quantity Screw Type Upper Cover M2.5*5 10. Starting at the top right side of the cover, pry apart the Upper and Lower Covers as shown. Work along the front edge of the casing to the left as shown, then lift the Upper Cover clear of the Lower Cover.
Removing the Left Speaker Module 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Locate the Left Speaker Module on the Upper Cover as shown. 3. Remove two (2) screws from the left speaker module. Step Left Speaker M2*3 Module 4.
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5. Lift the Speaker clear of the Upper Cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the Right Speaker Module 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Locate the Right Speaker Module on the Upper Cover as shown. 3. Remove the two (2) securing screws from the Right Speaker Module. Step Right Speaker M2*3 Module 4.
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5. Lift the Right Speaker Module clear of the device. Chapter 3...
Removing the Power Board 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Turn the upper cover over and remove the power board cable. Pass the cable through the upper cover as shown. 3. Remove two (2) screws from the power board. Step Power board M2*3...
Removing the TouchPad Bracket IMPORTANT: The TouchPad Board cannot be removed individually. To replace the TouchPad Board, replace the entire Upper Cover. 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Lift the FFC to detach the adhesive securing the cable to the Upper Cover. 3.
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4. Remove the one (1) screw from TouchPad bracket. Step Size Quantity Screw Type TouchPad Bracket M2*3 5. Pry the Touchpad bracket off the adhesive and remove it as shown. Chapter 3...
Removing the Card Reader Board 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Unlock the mainboard to card reader cable connector. 3. Remove one (1) screw from the card reader board. Step Card Reader M2*3 4. Lift the card reader board clear of the device. Size Quantity Screw Type...
Removing the USB Board 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Unlock the mainboard to USB cable connector. 3. Peel the cable off the adhesive as shown. 4. Remove one (1) screw from the USB board. Step M2*3 Chapter 3 Size...
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5. Lift the USB board clear of the device. Chapter 3...
Removing the Bluetooth Board 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Pry the Bluetooth board from the adhesive. 3. Disconnect the mainboard to Bluetooth cable. 4. Lift the Bluetooth board away from the cable channel as shown. Chapter 3...
Removing the Mainboard 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Disconnect the speaker to mainboard cable. 3. Disconnect the LVDS cable. Chapter 3...
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4. Remove the one (1) securing screw from the Mainboard. Step Size Quantity Screw Type Mainboard M2.5*5 5. Place a dust free, protective mat on the lcd screen to aid in the removal of the mainboard. Chapter 3...
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6. Lift the inner edge of the mainboard up and out to free it from the lower case, without removing the mainboard completely from the chassis. CAUTION: Do not remove the mainboard completely. The mainboard is still connected to the chassis. 7.
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8. Disconnect the power cable. 9. Remove the mainboard from the chassis and turn it over. NOTE: Circuit boards >10 cm² have been highlighted with a yellow rectangle as shown in the previous image. Please detach the Circuit board and follow local regulations for disposal. 10.
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11. Disconnect the Bluetooth to mainboard cable. Chapter 3...
Removing the Thermal Module 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Disconnect the fan cable. 3. Remove the four (4) securing screws (in reverse numerical order from screw 4 to 1), then the two (2) screws on the GPU.
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4. Carefully lift the Thermal Module clear of the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
Removing the CPU IMPORTANT: The pins on the underside of the CPU are very delicate. If they are damaged, the CPU may malfunction. Place the CPU on a clean, dry surface when it is not installed. 1. See “Removing the Thermal Module” on page 81. 2.
Removing the LCD Assembly 1. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 61. 2. Turn the device over and pass the black and white antenna cables through the lower cover. 3. Free the black and white antenna cables from the cable channel as shown. 4.
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5. Remove the LVDS cable from the cable channel. 6. Remove the adhesive tape from the black antenna cable. 7. Free the cable from the cable channel as shown. Chapter 3...
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8. Remove four (4) screws from the LCD assembly. Step Size Quantity Screw Type LCD assembly M2.5*5 9. Remove the LCD assembly from the lower cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the LCD Bezel 1. See “Removing the LCD Assembly” on page 85. 2. Remove the two bezel screw caps and screws. Step LCD Bezel M2.5*6 3. Starting from the bottom edge of the bezel, pry the bezel upwards and away from the panel. Work along the right side toward the top of the bezel, prying the covers apart.
Removing the Camera Module 1. See “Removing the LCD Assembly” on page 85. 2. Locate the Camera Module at the top of the LCD Module and disconnect the camera cable. 3. Remove the Camera from the module. Chapter 3...
Removing the LCD Panel 1. See “Removing the Camera Module” on page 89. 2. Remove the four (4) securing screws from the LCD Panel. Step LCD Panel M2.5*5 3. Remove the adhesive strip holding the cables in place. 4. Lift the LCD Panel clear of the module. Size Quantity Screw Type...
Removing the LCD Brackets and LVDS Cable 1. See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 90. 2. Remove the six (6) securing screws (three on each side) from the LCD Panel brackets. Step LCD Brackets M2*3 3. Remove the LCD brackets by pulling away from the LCD Panel. Chapter 3 Size Quantity...
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4. Turn the LCD panel over to expose the rear. Pull the cable up as shown. 5. Remove the adhesive tape from the cable. 6. Peel back the mylar securing the LVDS cable. Chapter 3...
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7. Disconnect the LVDS cable from the panel. Chapter 3...
Removing the Microphone Cable 1. See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 90. 2. Remove the cable bundle from the hinge channel. 3. Peel back the foil tabs and remove the microphone cable from the cable channel. 4. Peel back the foil tab on the microphone set. Chapter 3...
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5. Lift the microphone set and cable clear of the LCD cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the Antennas 1. See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 90. 2. Remove the black antenna from the cable channel. 3. Peel back the foil tabs and remove the cable from the cable channel. 4. Pry the antenna assembly clear of the device. Chapter 3...
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5. Remove the white antenna from the hinge channel. 6. Peel back the foil tabs and remove the cable from the cable channel. 7. Pry the antenna assembly clear of the device. Chapter 3...
LCD Module Reassembly Procedure Replacing the Antennas 1. Adhere the white antenna assembly to the LCD cover. 2. Run the cable along the cable channel and fold over the foil tabs to secure the cable in place. 3. Run the white antenna along the hinge channel. Chapter 3...
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4. Adhere the black antenna assembly on the LCD cover. 5. Run the cable along the cable channel and fold over the foil tabs to secure the cable in place. 6. Run the black antenna cable along the cable channel. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Microphone Cable 1. Place the microphone set in the panel. 3. Fold over the foil tabs and continue running the microphone cable along the cable channel indicated between the red callouts. IMPORTANT: Ensure that the LCD cable runs between the callouts to avoid trapping when the panel is replaced in the LCD Module.
Replacing the LCD Brackets and LVDS Cable 1. Connect the LVDS cable to the LCD panel. 2. Adhere the LVDS mylar to the LCD panel. 3. Adhere the LVDS cable to the panel by running it between the callouts as shown. Chapter 3...
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4. Attach the LCD brackets to the LCD Panel. 5. Replace six (6) securing screws (three on each side) of the LCD Panel brackets. Chapter 3...
Replacing the LCD Panel 1. Place the LCD Panel in the module as shown. 3. Run the cable through the left hinge channel. Chapter 3 2. Run the cable along the channel in the LCD Module as shown. 4. Secure the panel using four (4) securing screws.
Replacing the LCD Bezel 1. Replace the bezel and press down until there are no gaps between the bezel and the LCD Module. IMPORTANT: Ensure that the LCD cables pass through the hinge wells and are not trapped by the bezel. 2.
Replacing the LCD Assembly 1. Place the LCD assembly on the lower cover. 2. Secure the LCD assembly using four (4) screws. Chapter 3...
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3. Run the black antenna cable along the cable channel. 4. Replace the adhesive tape to secure the cable to the chassis. 5. Near the left hinge, run the LVDS cable along the cable channel. Chapter 3...
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6. Run the white antenna cable along the cable channel as shown. 7. Continue running the black and white antenna cables along the cable channel. 8. Pass the black and white antenna cables through the lower cover. Chapter 3...
Main Module Reassembly Procedure Replacing the CPU IMPORTANT: Apply a suitable thermal grease and ensure all heat pads are in place before replacing the CPU. The following thermal grease types are approved for use: N-302 Dimand TIM Grease • Honeywell •...
Replacing the Thermal Module IMPORTANT: Apply a suitable thermal grease and ensure all heat pads are in place before replacing the Thermal Module. The following thermal grease types are approved for use: N-302 Dimand TIM Grease • Honeywell • The following thermal pads are approved for use: Eapus XR-PE •...
Replacing the Mainboard 1. Connect the Bluetooth to mainboard cable. 2. Apply the adhesive tape to the Bluetooth cable. 3. Connect the power cable. Chapter 3...
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4. Place the left edge of the mainboard in first to line up the I/O ports before lowering the mainboard into the chassis. NOTE: Ensure the I/O ports are positioned correctly through the casing. 5. Secure the one (1) securing screw on the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
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6. Connect the LVDS cable to the mainboard. 7. Connect the microphone cable. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Bluetooth Board 1. Run the Bluetooth cable along the channel as shown. 2. Connect the mainboard to Bluetooth cable. 3. Adhere the Bluetooth board to the adhesive. Chapter 3...
Replacing the USB Board 1. Place the USB board in the device. 2. Secure the one (1) screw on the USB board. 3. Adhere the cable to the chassis as shown. Chapter 3...
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4. Connect the USB cable to the mainboard and lock the connector. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Card Reader Board 1. Place the card reader board in the device. 2. Secure one (1) screw on the card reader board. 3. Connect the card reader cable and lock the connector. Chapter 3...
Replacing the TouchPad Bracket 1. Replace the TouchPad bracket top edge first to engage the securing clips and press down firmly. 2. Replace the one (1) screws to secure the TouchPad Bracket to the Upper Cover. 3. Replace the TouchPad FFC and close the locking latch on the connector. Chapter 3...
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4. Replace the FFC and press down as indicated to secure it to the Upper Cover. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Power Board 1. Place the power board in the upper cover. Ensure that the assembly fits inside the bracket securely. 2. Secure two (2) screws on the power board. 3. Pass the power board cable through the upper cover. Adhere the power board cable as shown. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Right Speaker Module 1. Place the right speaker module in the chassis as shown. 2. Run the speaker cable along the channel. 3. Secure the two (2) securing screws on the Right Speaker Module. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Left Speaker Module 1. Place the module right side first on the Upper Cover as shown. 3. Secure two (2) screws from the left speaker module. Chapter 3 2. Run the Speaker cable along the cable channel.
Replacing the Upper Cover 1. Place the Upper Cover on the Lower Cover as shown and press all sides are firmly in place. 2. Secure the seven (7) screws on the Upper Cover as shown. Chapter 3...
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3. Connect the following cables to the Mainboard. 4. Connect D as shown. 5. Connect C as shown. Chapter 3...
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6. Connect B as shown. 7. Connect A and lock as shown. 8. Turn the computer over. Remove the eleven (11) screws on the lower cover and four (4) screws from the battery bay. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Keyboard 1. Connect the Keyboard FFC to the Mainboard and close the locking latch to secure the cable in place. 2. Replace the Keyboard by first lining up the bottom edge. Press down firmly to lock. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Hard Disk Drive Module 1. Place the HDD in the HDD carrier. 3. Insert the HDD, as indicated and lower it into place. 2. Replace the four (4) screws (two each side) to secure the carrier. 4. Slide the HDD in the direction of the arrow to connect the interface.
Replacing the WLAN Module 1. Insert the WLAN Module into the WLAN socket. 3. Connect the two (2) Antenna cables to the module. NOTE: The black cable connects to the upper terminal (MAIN) and the white cable to the lower terminal (MAIN).
Replacing the DIMM Modules 1. Insert the DIMM Module in place. 3. Repeat steps for the second DIMM module if present. 2. Press down to lock the DIMM module in place. Chapter 3...
Replacing the 3G Cover 1. Line up the left edge of the 3G cover with the device, before replacing completely. 2. Replace one (1) screw on the 3G Cover. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Logic Lower Door 1. Replace the lower cover by first lining up the top edge as shown. 2. Secure two (2) screws on the lower cover. Chapter 3...
Replacing the ODD Module 1. Press the bezel into the tray, bottom edge first, to secure it to the ODD Module. 3. Secure the ODD bracket with the two (2) screws. 4. Push the ODD Module into the ODD bay until it is flush with the casing.
Replacing the SD Dummy Card 1. Insert the SD Dummy Card into the slot as shown. 2. Push until the card clicks into place and is flush with the casing. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Battery 1. Slide and hold the battery release latch to the release position (1), insert the battery pack and press down (2). Chapter 3 2. Slide the battery lock in the direction shown to secure the battery in place.
Common Problems Use the following procedure as a guide for computer problems. NOTE: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only Acer products. Non-Acer products, prototype cards, or modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses. Obtain the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible.
Power On Issue If the system doesn’t power on, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Computer Shutsdown Intermittently If the system powers off at intervals, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Check the power cable is properly connected to the computer and the electrical outlet.
No Display Issue If the Display doesn’t work, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: No POST or Video If the POST or video doesn’t display, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Make sure that the internal display is selected.
Abnormal Video Display If video displays abnormally, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Reboot the computer. If permanent vertical/horizontal lines or dark spots display in the same location, the LCD is faulty and should be replaced. See “Disassembly Process” on page 45. If extensive pixel damage is present (different colored spots in the same locations on the screen), the LCD is faulty and should be replaced.
LCD Failure If the LCD fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non- defective FRUs: Built-In Keyboard Failure If the built-in Keyboard fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4...
TouchPad Failure If the TouchPad doesn’t work, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Internal Speaker Failure If the internal Speakers fail, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4...
Sound Problems If sound problems are experienced, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Reboot the computer. Navigate to Start Control Panel the Device Manager to determine that: • The device is properly installed. • There are no red Xs or yellow exclamation marks.
HDD Not Operating Correctly If the HDD does not operate correctly, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Disconnect all external devices. Run a complete virus scan using up-to-date software to ensure the computer is virus free. Run the Windows 7Startup Repair Utility: insert the Windows 7Operating System DVD in the ODD and restart the computer.
ODD Failure If the ODD fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non- defective FRUs: ODD Not Operating Correctly If the ODD exhibits any of the following symptoms it may be faulty: •...
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Double-click lDE ATA/ATAPI controllers. If a device displays a down arrow, right-click on the device and click Enable. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives. If the device displays a down arrow, right-click on the device and click Enable. Check that there are no yellow exclamation marks against the items in lDE ATA/ATAPI controllers. If a device has an exclamation mark, right-click on the device and uninstall and reinstall the driver.
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Double-click IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers, then right-click ATA Device 0. Click Properties and select the Advanced Settings tab. Ensure that the Enable DMA box is checked and click OK. Repeat for the other ATA Devices shown if applicable. Drive Not Detected If Windows cannot detect the drive, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem.
Wireless Function Failure If the WLAN fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non- defective FRUs: Thermal Unit Failure If the Thermal Unit fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4...
External Mouse Failure If an external Mouse fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Try an alternative mouse. If the mouse uses a wireless connection, insert new batteries and confirm there is a good connection. See the mouse user manual.
Issue” on page 138.): Power-off the computer. Visually check them for damage. If any problems are found, replace the FRU. Remove or disconnect all of the following devices: • Non-Acer devices • Printer, mouse, and other external devices • Battery pack •...
Post Codes These tables describe the POST codes and descriptions during the POST. Post Code Range Phase PostBDS Reserved SEC Phase POST Code Table Functionality Name (Include\ PostCode.h) SEC_SYSTEM_POWER_ON SEC_BEFORE_MICROCODE_PATCH SEC_AFTER_MICROCODE_PATCH SEC_SETUP_CAR_OK SEC_GO_TO_SECSTARTUP SEC_GO_TO_PEICORE PEI Phase POST Code Table: Functionality Name (Include\ PostCode.h) PEI_SIO_INIT PEI_CPU_REG_INIT...
Jumper and Connector Locations Top View Item Description JLVDS1 Connect to LED / CCFL Panel JSPK1 Connect to Right Speaker JSPK2 Connect to Left Speaker JKB1 Connect to Keyboard JTP1 Connect to Touch pad (FFC) JUSB2 Connect to Power USB board (FFC) JCR1 Connect to Card reader board...
USB/B Board Item JUSB1/JUSB2 Power Board ITEM DESCRIPTION LED1 For NEW75 ON/OFF LED LED2 For NEW85 ON/OFF LED LED3 For NEW95 ON/OFF LED LED4 For NEW75 MEDIA LED LED5 For NEW85 MEDIA LED LED6 For NEW95 MEDIA LED LED7 For NEW75 WWAN LED Chapter 5 Description USB Connector...
This section provides you with the standard operating procedures of clearing password and BIOS recovery for the Aspire 5251/5551G/5551. The machine provides one Hardware Open Gap on main board for clearing password check, and one Hotkey for enabling BIOS Recovery.
BIOS Recovery by Crisis Disk BIOS Recovery Boot Block: BIOS Recovery Boot Block is a special block of BIOS. It is used to boot up the system with minimum BIOS initialization. Users can enable this feature to restore the BIOS firmware to a successful one once the previous BIOS flashing process failed.
Guide. For ACER AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer office may have a DIFFERENT part number code from those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use the local FRU list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.
Model Definition and Configuration Aspire 5251 Model Acer Part No AS5251- LX.PWJ02.005 1202G25Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.004 1202G16Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.003 1203G16Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.002 1203G25Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.001 1202G25Mn AS5251- S2.PWJ02.001 1202G25Mn AS5251- LX.PUX02.001 1202G25Mn AS5251- S2.PUX0C.001 N122G32M Model Acer Part No AS5251- LX.PWJ02.005...
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Model Acer Part No AS5251- S2.PUX0C.001 N122G32Mn Model Acer Part No AS5251- LX.PWJ02.005 1202G25Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.004 1202G16Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.003 1203G16Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.002 1203G25Mn AS5251- LX.PWJ02.001 1202G25Mn AS5251- S2.PWJ02.001 1202G25Mn AS5251- LX.PUX02.001 1202G25Mn AS5251- S2.PUX0C.00 N122G32M Model Acer Part No AS5251- LX.PWJ02.005...
Appendix B Test Compatible Components This computer’s compatibility is tested and verified by Acer’s internal testing department. All of its system ® functions are tested under Windows 7 environment. Refer to the following lists for components, adapter cards, and peripherals which have passed these tests.
This section describes online technical support services available to help you repair your Acer Systems. If you are a distributor, dealer, ASP or TPM, please refer your technical queries to your local Acer branch office. Acer Branch Offices and Regional Business Units may access our website. However some information sources will require a user i.d.