You are advised to read it thoroughly and keep it handy for future reference. For more information on Acer’s products, services, and support, please visit the web site: http://www.acer.com. Basic care and tips for using your computer...
Page 4
Note: If you are unable to shut down the computer in the usual way, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds. You should then wait at least two seconds before turning the computer on again. Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.
Page 5
Taking care of your battery pack It is also important that you look after your computer's battery pack. • Use the correct battery model for your computer. Do not use other kinds of batteries. • Turn the power off before removing or replacing the battery. •...
First things first Your guides Basic care and tips for using your computer Getting familiar with your computer A tour of your computer Front view Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Features Indicators Keyboard Lock keys Embedded keypad Windows keys Hot keys The Euro symbol...
Page 8
Setting up a home office Traveling with the computer Preparing the computer What to take with you Special considerations Traveling internationally with your computer Preparing the computer What to take with you Special considerations Software Using system utilities Acer eManager...
Page 9
System software Launch Manager BIOS Setup Utility D to D Recovery (Disc to Disc) Multilingual operating system installation Restore without a Recovery CD Setup password and exit Troubleshooting Frequently asked questions Requesting service International Traveler’s Warranty (ITW) Before you call Appendix A Specifications Appendix B Regulation &...
Page 12
Your Aspire 1360 / 1520 series notebook computer combines solid performance, versatility, multimedia capabilities and portability with a stylish design. Increase your productivity by working wherever you are. This chapter provides an in-depth "tour" of your computer's features.
A tour of your computer After setting up your new Aspire notebook computer, as illustrated in Just for starters… poster, take a few minutes to explore the unit. Front view Item Display screen Status indicators Description Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD) provides visual output.
Page 14
Item Power button Launch keys Palmrest Click buttons & 4-way scroll key Touchpad Keyboard Ventilation slot Getting familiar with your computer Description Turns the computer on and off. Buttons for launching frequently used programs. See “Launch keys” on page 21 for more details. Comfortable support area for your hands when you use the computer.
Left view Item PC Card slots Eject buttons Optical drive IEEE 1394 port Infrared port LED indicator Eject button Emergency eject hole Speaker Description Support one Type III or two Type II CardBus PC Card(s). Ejects the PC Card(s) from the slots. Internal optical drive;...
Right view Item Speaker Ventilation slots Security keylock Getting familiar with your computer Description Delivers stereo audio output. Enable the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use. Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer security lock.
Rear view Item Power jack Parallel port Ventilation slots S-video port External display port Four USB 2.0 ports Network jack Modem jack Description Connects to an AC adaptor. Connects to a parallel device (e.g., parallel printer). Enable the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use.
Item Speaker/Line-Out/ Headphone jack Line-in/Mic-in jack Bottom view Item Battery bay Battery release latch Memory compartment Getting familiar with your computer Description Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g., speakers and headphones). Accepts audio line-in devices (e.g., audio CD player and stereo walkman). Description Houses the computer's battery pack.
Display • The TFT LCD panel providing a large viewing area for maximum efficiency and ease-of-use: 14.1” XGA (1024x768) resolution (for Aspire 1360 only) 15.0” XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) resolution 15.4” WXGA (1280x800) • NVIDIA GeForce4 448 Go with 64 MB of video memory (manufacturing option) •...
Page 20
• MS DirectSound compatible • Built-in dual speakers Connectivity • Integrated 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet connection (for Aspire 1360 only) • Integrated 10/100/1000 Mbps Fast Ethernet connection (for Aspire 1520 only) • Built-in 56Kbps fax/data modem • Four Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 ports •...
Indicators Your computer provides an array of seven indicators located either on the right hand side of the display screen (for normal 14” and 15” screen) or below the display screen (for 15.4” wide), showing the status of the computer and its components. Icon Function Wireless...
Page 22
Icon Function Num Lock Getting familiar with your computer Description Lights when Num Lock is activated.
Keyboard The keyboard features full-size keys with an embedded keypad, separate cursor control keys, two Windows keys, and twelve function keys (hot keys). Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock Key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in...
Embedded keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys. Desired Access Num Lock On Number keys on...
Windows keys The keyboard features two keys that provide Windows-specific functions. Description 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: + Tab + F1...
Hot keys Using the Fn key with another key creates a hot key, providing a quick and convenient method for controlling various functions. To use a hot key, first hold down the Fn key. Next, press the second key in the combination. Finally, release both keys. Your computer provides the following hot keys: Hot Key Icon...
Hot Key Icon Function Fn-F6 Screen blank Fn-F7 Touchpad toggle Fn-F8 Speaker toggle Fn-↑ Volume up Fn-↓ Volume down Fn-→ Brightness up Fn- ← Brightness down Fn-Pg Up Home Fn-Pg Dn Alt Gr- Euro Euro Description Turns the display screen backlight off to save power.
The Euro symbol If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International or United Kingdom or if you have a keyboard with a European layout, you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard. Note for US keyboard users: The keyboard layout is set when you first set up Windows.
Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a PS/2-compatible pointing device that senses movement on its surface. The cursor responds to your finger movements on the touchpad. In addition, the two click buttons provide the same functionality as a computer mouse, while the scroll key enables easy 4-way scrolling in documents and web pages.
Page 30
Function Left Button Execute Click twice quickly. Select Click once. Drag Click and hold. Then, slide your finger across the touchpad to drag the cursor over the selection. Access content menu Scroll Note: Keep your fingers, as well as the surface of the touchpad, clean and dry.
They are designated as the mail, Web browser, Empowering and programmable keys. Press the Acer Empowering Key to run the Acer eManager. Please see “Acer eManager” on page 57. The mail and Web browser are default for Email and Internet programs, but can be reset by users.
Launch Key Default Application ® Bluetooth Enables your (optional) Wireless Enables your 802.11b/g Wireless LAN. (optional) Caution: It is important that the features are turned off before boarding an airplane. Storage Your computer offers a variety of data storage options: •...
Ejecting the optical drive tray To eject the optical drive tray: • With the computer turned on, press the optical drive eject button. • The tray will be released, and partially popped open. • Gently pull the tray out to its limit. To load an optical disc: •...
Ethernet and LAN The integrated network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet-based (10/100 BASE-T for Aspire 1360 or 10/100/1000 BASE-T for Aspire 1520) network. To use the network feature, plug an Ethernet cable into your computer's network jack, and then connect the other end to a network jack or hub on your network.
Fax/Data modem Your computer features a built-in fax/data modem, enabling you to communicate over a phone line. This means that you can connect to the Internet via a dialup account with an ISP, log in to your network from a remote location, or send faxes. Warning: Your modem is not compatible with digital phone lines.
Getting familiar with your computer Audio Your computer includes an integrated stereo audio system. Built-in stereo speakers are located at the front on both sides of the unit. Volume is adjusted using software, such as Volume Control in Windows, Volume Fn keys, or any other application that provides a volume adjustment control.
Securing your computer Your computer features hardware and software security solutions, in the form of a slot for a Kensington lock and a password facility. Security slot A slot for a Kensington slot enables you to physically protect your computer from theft. Use this feature as follows: •...
Page 38
Setting a password Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access. When set, no one can access the computer without entering the correct password. There are three types of passwords you can set: Supervisor Password secures your computer against unauthorized entry to and use of the BIOS Utility. User Password secures your computer against unauthorized use.
Page 40
Your Aspire 1360 / 1520 series notebook computer operates on battery or AC power. This chapter provides information for operating on battery power, as well as information on how your computer manages and saves power.
Battery pack The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between charges. Battery pack characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: • Employs current battery technology standards. • Delivers a battery-low warning. The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the mains power supply.
Follow these steps again until the battery has been charged and discharged three times. Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't been used for a long time. If the computer is to be stored for more than two weeks, you are advised to remove the battery pack from the unit.
To remove a battery pack: Slide the battery release latch to release the battery. Pull the battery from the battery bay. Charging the battery To charge the battery, first make sure that it is correctly installed in the battery bay. Plug the AC adaptor into the computer, and connect to a mains power outlet.
Battery-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the Windows Power Meter. Warning: Connect the AC adaptor as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears. Data will be lost if the battery to become fully depleted and the computer shuts down. When the battery-low warning appears, the recommended course of action depends on your situation: Situation...
Power management Your computer features a built-in power management unit that constantly monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, touchpad/mouse, hard disk drive, optical drive, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (the settings are controlled in Windows Power Management), the computer turns off some, or all, of these devices in order to conserve power.
Page 48
Your Aspire 1360 / 1520 series notebook computer offers good expansion capabilities. This chapter provides information on connecting peripherals to expand your system. It also describes how to upgrade key components to enhance system performance and keep your computer in step with the latest technology.
External display devices You can connect an external (VGA) monitor or projector to your computer's external display port. Use the Fn + F5 hot key to toggle the display setting between the computer's LCD panel and the external display device. See “Hot keys” on page 16 for more information.
Peripherals and options USB devices Your computer features four Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 ports for connecting a range of USB peripherals. See “External input devices” on page 39, and “Printer” on page 42 for information on connecting a USB keyboard, keypad, mouse or printer. Other common USB devices include digital cameras, scanners, and external storage devices.
IEEE 1394 Port The computer’s IEEE 1394 port allows you to connect to an IEEE 1394 supported device like a digital video camera. See your video or digital camera’s documentation for details.
Printer Your computer supports both parallel and USB printers. Refer to the printer's manual for information on: • Setting up the hardware • Installing the necessary drivers in Windows • Operating instructions To use a USB printer, simply connect the device to one of your computer's USB ports, and then wait for Windows to find the new hardware.
Expansion devices PC Card Your computer features two PC Card slots that support two standard Type II or one Type III CardBus (PCMCIA). This greatly increases your computer's usability and expandability. A variety of PC Cards are available, such as flash memory, SRAM, fax/data modem, LAN, and SCSI Cards.
To remove a PC Card: Close the application that is using the PC Card. Double click on the PC Card icon on the taskbar, and then select the option to safely remove the card. Wait for the message telling you that it is now safe to remove the card. Press the PC Card eject button to partially eject the card (1).
Key component upgrades Your computer is designed to deliver solid performance. However, in time, you might find that your applications demand even more computing power. For this reason, you are able to upgrade key components. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.
Insert the memory module diagonally in the slot (1), and then press down gently until it clicks in place (2). Replace the memory compartment door, and fasten the screw. The computer automatically detects the new module and reconfigures the memory. Hard disk upgrade It is possible to replace your hard disk with a higher capacity drive when you need more storage space.
Page 58
Your Aspire 1360 / 1520 series notebook computer is ideal for taking with you when you move around. This chapter provides tips on things to consider when traveling with your computer.
Disconnecting from the desktop Before moving with your computer, you must turn it off and disconnect all peripherals: Save your work and close all applications. Shut down Windows to turn off your computer. Unplug the AC adaptor from the main outlet, and then disconnect it from the computer.
Moving with your computer Moving around Sometimes you might need to move your computer a short distance. For example, you might need to move from your office desk to a meeting room. In these situations, you don't have to shut down the operating system.
Taking the computer home When you move between your office and home you will need to prepare your computer for the short trip. Preparing the computer After disconnecting your computer from the desktop, prepare the unit as follows: Remove all media from the drives. Loaded media can damage the drive heads during transit.
Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, as well as at work, it may be worthwhile purchasing a second AC adaptor. This will allow you to travel lighter, as you can keep an AC adaptor in each location. You might also find it worthwhile keeping a second set of peripherals at home, such as a keyboard, keypad, mouse and printer.
Traveling internationally with your computer Occasionally you might need to travel between countries with your computer. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would for normal travel. Remember to take special precautions for air travel. What to take with you It is advisable to take the following items with you: •...
Page 66
Your Aspire 1360 / 1520 series notebook computer includes system utilities. This chapter provides information on the important software that comes with your computer.
Using system utilities Acer eManager Acer eManager is an innovative sofware designed for frequently used functions. At the press of the Acer Empowering Key, the Acer eMan- ager user interface appears, featuring two main settings; Acer eSetting and Acer ePresentation.
System software Your computer comes preloaded with the following software: ® ® • Microsoft Windows • Hardware BIOS Setup Utility • System utilities, drivers and application software Note: To run software applications in Windows Start button. Next, select the appropriate folder, and then click on the application icon.
BIOS Setup Utility The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) contains important information used to configure the hardware and system software settings. Your computer reads the BIOS when it first starts up, before it loads the operating system. Your computer's BIOS includes a built-in setup utility called Phoenix Software System Configuration Utility (SCU).
Before performing a restore operation, please check the BIOS settings. Check to see if "Acer disc-to disc recovery" function is enabled or not. Make sure the [D2D Recovery] setting in [Main] is [Enabled].
Setup password and exit Press "F3" to setup password or press "F5" to exit the system recovery process when "Acer Self-Configuration Preload" window appears. If "F3" is pressed, the next screen shows "Please enter new password:" enter one to eight alphanumeric characters. You will be asked to reenter your password for confirmation before continuing.
Page 74
This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Please read it before calling a technician. Solutions to more serious problems may require opening the computer. Do not attempt to open and service the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
Frequently asked questions This section suggests solutions to commonly encountered problems. I press the power button, but my computer does not start or boot-up. Look at the Power status indicator. • If it is not lit, no power is being delivered to the computer. Check the following: If you are running on battery power, the battery may be low and unable to power the computer.
Page 76
There is no audio coming from my computer. Check the following: • The volume may be muted. In Windows control icon on the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click on the icon and deselect the Mute option. • The volume level may be too low. In Windows volume control icon on the taskbar, and then use the slider control to increase the volume level.
Page 77
The optical drive cannot read a disc. Check the following: • Make sure that the disc is supported by the drive. If your computer has a CD-ROM drive, it can read CDs but cannot read DVDs. If your computer has a DVD drive, it can read both CDs and DVDs. •...
Place your proof-of- purchase in the flap located inside the front cover of the ITW passport. If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide.
Page 80
This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
Page 81
Display and video • The TFT LCD panel providing a large viewing area for maximum efficiency and ease-of-use: 14.1” XGA (1024x768) resolution (for Aspire 1360 only) 15.0” XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) resolution 15.4” WXGA (1280x800) • Simultaneous LCD and CRT display support •...
Page 86
This appendix lists the general notices for your computer.
Page 87
Energy Star Guidelines Compliance As an Energy Star Partner, Acer Inc. has determined that this product meets the Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency. FCC notice This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme a la norme NMB- 003 du Canada. Declaration of Conformity for EU countries Hereby, Acer, declares that this Aspire series is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/ 5/EC. (Please visit www.acer.com/about/certificates/nb for complete documents.)
Page 89
the problem is with the equipment, discontinue use and contact your dealer or vendor. Caution: To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger UL Listed or CSA Certified Telecommunication Line Cord. TBR 21 This equipment has been approved [Council Decision 98/482/EC - "TBR 21"] for single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
Page 90
Notice for New Zealand For modems with approval number PTC 211/03/008 The grant of a Telepermit for any item of terminal equipment indicates only that Telecom has accepted that the item complies with minimum conditions for connection to its network. It indicates no endorsement of the product by Telecom, nor does it provide any sort of warranty.
Page 91
For modems with approval number PTC 211/01/030 The grant of a Telepermit for any item of terminal equipment indicates only that Telecom has accepted that the item complies with minimum conditions for connection to its network. It indicates no endorsement of the product by Telecom, nor does it provide any sort of warranty.
Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully. Save them for future reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition.
Appendix B Regulation & safety notices PRODUCTO LÁSER DE LA CLASE I ADVERTENCIA: RADIACIÓN LÁSER INVISIBLE AL SER ABIERTO. EVITE EXPONERSE A LOS RAYOS. ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING VEDÅBNING SE IKKE IND I STRÅLEN. VARO! LAVATTAESSA OLET ALTTINA LASERSÅTEILYLLE. VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NÅR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNAD ÅLÅ TUIJOTA SÅTEESEENSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NAR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNADSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN...
Page 95
General This product complies with the radio frequency and safety standards of any country or region in which it has been approved for wireless use. Depending on configurations, this product may or may not contain wireless radio devices (such as wireless LAN and/or Bluetooth modules).
Wireless LAN Mini-PCI Card built in to the screen section and all persons. Note: Acer Wireless Mini PCI adaptor implements transmission diversity function. The function does not emit radio frequencies simultaneously from both antennas. One of the antennas is...
Page 97
selected automatically or manually (by users) to have good quality of radio communication. This device is restricted to indoor use due to its operation in the 5.15 to 5.25 GHz frequency range. FCC requires this product to be used indoors for the frequency range 5.15 to 5.25 GHz to reduce the potential for harmful interference to co-channel Mobile Satellite systems.
Page 98
Appendix B Regulation & safety notices Declaration of Conformity Notebook Personal Computer MS2159 / MS2159W Aspire 1360 / 1520 Aspire 136xxx / 152xxx (“x” = 0~9, a ~ z, or A ~ Z) Acer America Corporation 2641 Orchard Parkway, San Jose CA 95134, U.
Page 99
Acer Model Number: MS2159 / MS2159W Machine Type: Aspire 1360 / 1520 SKU Number: Aspire 136xxx / 152xxx (“x” = 0~9, a ~ z, or A ~ Z) Is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the following EC directives.
Page 100
Appendix B Regulation & safety notices...
Index audio connecting externally controlling volume troubleshooting battery pack battery-low warning caring for characteristics charging charging indicator checking charge level installing low conditions maximizing life optimizing removing using the first time BIOS Setup Utility entering brightness hotkeys caps lock on indicator care battery pack computer...
Page 102
Windows keys keypad connecting externally launch keys left view media access on indicator memory installing 45, 46 upgrading microphone troubleshooting modem setting location mouse connecting externally Notebook Manager hotkey notice DVD copyright protection num lock on indicator optical drive options hard disk upgrade memory upgrade PC Cards...
Page 103
volume adjusting warranty International Traveler’s Warran- Windows keys...