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Acer TravelMate P243-M User Manual

Acer TravelMate P243-M
271 pages
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TravelMate P243 Series
SERVICEGUIDE

Table of Contents

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Acer TravelMate P243-M Specifications

General IconGeneral
Display Size14 inches
Display Resolution1366 x 768 pixels
Weight2.1 kg (4.63 lbs)
WirelessWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0
ProcessorIntel Core i3/i5/i7 (depending on configuration)
Storage500GB HDD
GraphicsIntel HD Graphics 4000
Operating SystemWindows 7 Professional
Battery6-cell Li-ion battery
PortsUSB 3.0, USB 2.0, HDMI, VGA, Ethernet

Summary

Revision History, Copyright, and Disclaimer

Conventions and General Information

Chapter 1 Hardware Specifications

Features

Summary of the computer's hardware features, including OS, CPU, Chipset, Memory, Display, Graphics, Audio, Storage, Webcam, Wireless, Security, Power, Input/Output ports, and Software.

Notebook Tour

Visual guide to the notebook's external components and their functions, including opened and closed views.

Touchpad Basics

Explanation of touchpad functionality, including cursor movement, button operations, and gesture controls.

Using the Keyboard

Details on keyboard layout, lock keys (Caps Lock, Num Lock, Scroll Lock), and embedded numeric keypad functionality.

Windows Keys

Description of Windows-specific function keys like the Windows Logo key and Application key.

Hotkeys

Explanation of keyboard hotkeys for accessing computer controls like screen brightness and volume.

System Block Diagram

A graphical representation of the system's internal components and their interconnections.

Specification Tables

Detailed tables outlining computer specifications, including dimensions, weight, power, temperature, humidity, altitude, shock, and vibration.

System Board Major Chips

Information on the key integrated circuits and chipsets present on the system board.

Processor Specifications

Detailed specifications for various CPU models, including speed, cores, cache, package, and voltage.

System Memory

Details on system memory specifications, including controller, size, sockets, speed, voltage, and package type.

Video Interface

Information on the video interface, including chipset, package, compatibility resolutions, and sampling rate.

BIOS

Details regarding the BIOS vendor, version, ROM type, size, and features.

Keyboard

Specifications for the keyboard, including type, number of keypads, Windows logo key, and simultaneous internal/external keyboard support.

Hard Disk Drive (AVL components)

Specifications for various hard disk drive models, including vendor, capacity, speed, buffer size, and transfer rates.

BD/DVD Super Multi Drive

Specifications for BD/DVD Super Multi drives, including vendor, performance, buffer memory, interface, and applicable disc formats.

LCD 14.0”

Detailed specifications for the 14.0-inch LCD panel, including resolution, brightness, contrast ratio, and viewing angles.

Graphics Controller (UMA)

Information on the Unified Memory Architecture (UMA) graphics controller, including VGA chip and features.

Graphics Controller (Discrete)

Information on the discrete graphics controller, including VGA chip, features, and supported resolutions.

LAN Interface

Details about the LAN interface, including chipset, connector type, location, and features.

Bluetooth Module

Specifications for the Bluetooth module, including chipset, interface, and supported features.

Audio Codec and Amplifier

Details on the audio codec and amplifier hardware, including features and capabilities.

USB Port

Specifications for USB ports, including compliance level, number of ports, location, and output current.

HDMI Port

Specifications for the HDMI port, including compliance level, data throughput, number of ports, and location.

Battery

Details on the battery, including vendor, model, type, capacity, number of cells, and package configuration.

AC Adapter

Specifications for the AC adapter, including vendor, input rating, maximum input current, inrush current, and efficiency.

System Power Management

Information on system power management states (Mech. Off, Soft Off, Working, Suspend to RAM, Save to Disk).

System LED Indicator

Explanation of system LED indicators for lock status, system state, HDD access, communication, power button, and battery status.

System Interrupt Specification

Table detailing system interrupt (IRQ) assignments and their corresponding system functions.

System I/O Address Map

A map of I/O addresses and their system functions in the shipping configuration.

Chapter 2 System Utilities

BIOS Setup Utility

Guide to the BIOS Setup Utility, a hardware configuration program for system settings.

Navigating the BIOS Utility

Instructions on navigating the BIOS utility menus, items, and changing parameter values.

BIOS Information

Details on the BIOS Information tab, summarizing computer hardware information.

BIOS Main

Explanation of the BIOS Main tab parameters for setting system time, date, boot options, and recovery.

BIOS Security

Information on the BIOS Security tab, covering parameters for safeguarding the computer from unauthorized use.

BIOS Boot

Details on the BIOS Boot tab, allowing changes to the order of boot devices.

BIOS Exit

Description of the BIOS Exit tab for saving or discarding changes and quitting the utility.

BIOS Flash Utilities

Procedures for updating BIOS flash memory for new program versions, features, or corruption recovery.

DOS Flash Utility

Step-by-step guide for using the DOS Flash Utility to update the BIOS.

WinFlash Utility

Instructions for using the WinFlash Utility to update the BIOS from within Windows.

Clearing BIOS Passwords

Procedure for clearing Insyde HDD/BIOS passwords, including warnings and error status.

Removing Insyde BIOS Passwords

Detailed steps for removing Insyde BIOS passwords using a software utility.

Removing Insyde HDD Password

Procedure for clearing BIOS passwords specifically related to the HDD.

Miscellaneous Tools

Information on various system utility tools, including DMITools, UUIDTools, LAN MAC EEPROM, and Crisis Disk Recovery.

Using DMITools

Guide on using the DMI Tool to copy BIOS information to EEPROM for hardware management.

Using UUIDTools

Instructions for using the UUID Tool to copy BIOS information to EEPROM for hardware management.

Using the LAN MAC EEPROM Utility

Steps to write MAC (Media Access Control) information to EEPROM using the LAN.BAT utility.

Crisis Disk Recovery

Procedure for performing BIOS recovery using a crisis USB disk.

Chapter 3 Machine Maintenance Procedures

Introduction and General Information

Overview of the chapter's content, including maintenance, tools, and component removal/installation procedures.

Recommended Equipment

List of recommended tools and equipment for performing maintenance procedures.

Pre-disassembly Instructions

Steps to perform before starting any maintenance procedures, including removing power and cables.

Disassembly Process

Overview of the disassembly process, divided into external, main unit, and LCD module disassembly sections.

External Module Disassembly Process

Steps and flowchart for disassembling external components like ODD, Keyboard, and HDD.

Dummy Card Removal

Procedure for removing the dummy card from the system.

Battery Pack Removal

Detailed steps for removing the battery pack from the computer.

ODD (Optical Disk Drive) Module Removal

Procedure for removing the Optical Disk Drive module, including bezel and bracket.

Keyboard Removal

Step-by-step guide for removing the keyboard, including disconnecting FPC and releasing latches.

Base Door Removal

Procedure for removing the base door to access internal components.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) Module Removal

Steps for removing the WLAN module, including disconnecting antennas and securing screws.

DIMM (Dual In-line Memory Module) Module Removal

Procedure for removing DIMM modules by releasing clips and disconnecting from the mainboard.

HDD (Hard Disk Drive) Module Removal

Steps for removing the HDD module, including disconnecting cables and bracket.

Main Unit Disassembly Process

Flowchart and steps for disassembling the main internal components of the computer.

Upper Case Removal

Procedure for removing the upper case, including disconnecting touchpad FPC and screws.

IO Board Removal

Steps for removing the IO board, including disconnecting FPC and securing screws.

Mainboard Removal

Detailed steps for removing the mainboard, including disconnecting cables and screws.

Speaker Module Removal

Procedure for removing the speaker modules, including speaker cables and mounting screws.

RTC battery Removal

Steps for removing the RTC battery, including disconnecting cable and prying from adhesive.

Thermal Module Removal

Procedure for removing the thermal module, including disconnecting fan cable and captive screws.

CPU Processor Removal

Steps for removing the CPU processor, including rotating the cam lock and lifting the processor.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Module Removal

Procedure for removing the LCD module, including antennas, screws, and cable management.

Support Bracket Removal

Steps for removing the support brackets securing the LCD panel.

DC-in Jack Removal

Procedure for removing the DC-in jack module from the base assembly.

LCD Module Disassembly Process

Flowchart and screw list for disassembling the LCD module components.

LCD Bezel Removal

Steps for removing the LCD bezel, including releasing latches and screws.

Camera Module Removal

Procedure for removing the camera module, including disconnecting cable and adhesive.

LCD Panel Removal

Steps for removing the LCD panel from the LCD cover, including microphone and screws.

LCD Bracket Removal

Procedure for removing the LCD bracket from the LCD panel.

LVDS and Camera Cable Removal

Steps for removing the LVDS and camera cables from the LCD panel.

LCD Module Reassembly Process

Steps for reassembling the LCD module, focusing on LVDS and camera cables.

Replacing the LCD Bracket

Procedure for installing and securing the LCD bracket to the LCD panel.

Replacing the LCD Panel

Steps for installing the LCD panel onto the LCD cover and securing it with screws.

Replacing the Camera Module

Procedure for installing the camera module and connecting its cable.

Replacing the LCD Bezel

Steps for attaching and securing the LCD bezel to the LCD module.

Main Unit Reassembly Process

Steps for reassembling the main internal components of the computer.

Replacing the DC-in Jack

Procedure for installing the DC-in jack module and securing its cable.

Replacing the Support Bracket

Steps for installing and securing the support brackets.

Replacing the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Module

Procedure for installing the LCD module, aligning hinges, and securing with screws.

Replacing the CPU Processor

Steps for installing the CPU processor, including placing it on the mainboard and tightening the cam lock.

Replacing the Thermal Module

Procedure for replacing the thermal module, including applying thermal grease and securing screws.

Replacing the RTC battery

Steps for installing the RTC battery, including securing it with adhesives and connecting the cable.

Replacing the Speaker Module

Procedure for installing speaker modules, securing screws, and routing speaker cables.

Replacing the Mainboard

Steps for installing the mainboard, including connecting various cables and securing screws.

Replacing the IO Board

Procedure for installing the IO board, connecting FPC, and securing with screws.

Replacing the Upper Case

Steps for installing the upper case, including connecting FPC and securing screws.

External Module Reassembly Process

Steps for reassembling external modules like HDD, DIMM, and WLAN.

Replacing the HDD (Hard Disk Drive) Module

Procedure for installing the HDD module, including brackets, cables, and connectors.

Replacing the DIMM (Dual In-line Memory Module) Module

Steps for installing DIMM modules into the mainboard connectors and locking clips.

Replacing the WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) Module

Procedure for installing the WLAN module, connecting antennas, and securing with screws.

Replacing the Base Door

Steps for installing and securing the base door.

Replacing the Keyboard

Procedure for installing the keyboard, connecting FPC, and securing latches.

Replacing the ODD (Optical Disk Drive) Module

Steps for installing the ODD module, including bezel, bracket, and securing screws.

Replacing the Battery Pack

Procedure for installing the battery pack into the battery bay.

Replacing the Dummy Card

Steps for inserting the dummy card until the spring latch locks.

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting

Introduction and General Information

Overview of troubleshooting procedures and general information for identifying and resolving computer problems.

Power On Issues

Troubleshooting steps for systems that do not power on or shut down intermittently.

No Display Issues

Procedure for troubleshooting when the display does not work or POST/video does not appear.

LCD Picture Failure

Troubleshooting steps for LCD failures, including checking modules, connectors, and cables.

Internal Keyboard Failure

Troubleshooting steps for internal keyboard failures, checking FPC connection and keyboard functionality.

Touchpad Failure

Troubleshooting steps for touchpad failures, checking mainboard connection and touchpad board.

Internal Speaker Failure

Troubleshooting steps for internal speaker failures, checking M/B SPK cable and logic components.

Internal Microphone Failure

Troubleshooting steps for internal microphone failures, checking MIC cable and module functionality.

USB Failure

Troubleshooting steps for USB port failures, checking USB/B to M/B cable and USB/B components.

Other Functions Failure

Troubleshooting steps for failures related to other system functions, drives, or external modules.

Intermittent Problems

Guidance for diagnosing intermittent system hang problems caused by various factors.

Undetermined Problems

Procedures to isolate failing FRUs when diagnostic problems do not identify the specific failed component.

Post Codes

Tables detailing InsydeH2O Functionality POST code ranges and specific phase code descriptions.

Chapter 5 Jumper and Connector Locations

Mainboard Jumper and Connector Locations

Diagrams and descriptions of jumper and connector locations on the mainboard's top and bottom sides.

Clearing Password Check and BIOS Recovery

Procedures for clearing BIOS passwords and performing BIOS recovery using a crisis disk or hot key.

Clearing Password Check

Steps to clear BIOS passwords (Supervisor and User) by using the ClearPwd.EXE utility.

BIOS Recovery by Crisis Disk

Instructions for performing BIOS recovery from USB storage using a crisis disk.

Chapter 6 FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List

Exploded Diagrams

System exploded diagrams illustrating the placement of major components with corresponding Acer Part Numbers.

FRU List

Comprehensive list of Field Replaceable Units (FRUs) with categories, descriptions, and Acer Part Numbers.

Screw List

List of screws used in the system, detailing their size, quantity, and Acer Part Numbers.

Chapter 7 Model Definition and Configuration

TravelMate P243 Series

Definition and configuration details specific to the TravelMate P243 Series models.

RO, Description

Table detailing Region Option (RO), description, and Acer Part Numbers for various configurations.

CPU, LCD

Table mapping models to their corresponding CPU and LCD panel specifications.

VGA Chip, VRAM

Table specifying the VGA Chip and VRAM configurations for different models.

Memory 1, Memory 2, HDD 1

Table detailing memory configurations (1 and 2) and HDD 1 specifications for various models.

ODD, Extra SW1, Card Reader

Table specifying ODD, Extra SW1, and Card Reader configurations for different models.

Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, NB Chipset

Table detailing Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, and NB Chipset configurations for various models.

Battery, Adapter, Camera

Table specifying Battery, Adapter, and Camera configurations for different models.

Chapter 8 Test Compatible Components

Microsoft® Windows® 7 Environment Test

List of components tested and verified for compatibility with Windows 7 environment.

Chapter 9 Online Support Information

Introduction to Online Support

Description of online technical support services, resources, and information available for Acer Systems.

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